There’s no pav’fect path to happiness unless it's street food on a rainy day

In Mumbai, monsoon is not just a season, but a celebration of flavours and emotions. The city's bustling streets are dotted with food stalls that beckon you with their aromas. Whether it's the iconic vada pav, the savoury bhajiyas, or the aromatic cutting chai, monsoons in Mumbai set up an unbeatable food that has you volunteering happily to head out in the rain just for that one plate of chaat.

While you may already have an existing bucket list of places that you need to visit and sample the best that this city has to offer, hear us out this one time. Mumbai is renowned for its diverse and mouth-watering street food offerings, and the rainy season adds a unique charm to the experience. So scroll further down, to take a look at our top five picks that you must visit while it still continues to tip tip barsa pani, to make the best of the weather.

Vada Pav at Ashok Vada Pav
Monsoon or no monsoon, when it comes to iconic Bambaiya snacks, vada pav takes the top spot. Ashok Vada Pav, located in Prabhadevi, is known for serving the best eponymous snack in the city. And although we may not know the secret to their lip-smacking vada pavs, the combination of spicy fritters, tangy chutneys, and soft pav creates a burst of flavours in every bite. This popular street food is a must-try during the monsoons.
Address: Off Cadel Road, Kirti College Lane, Prabhadevi

Chana Chaat at Juhu Beach
Juhu Beach is an iconic destination for its vibrant atmosphere and a number of small food kiosks lining the shore, belting all sorts of snacks. One such dish you must indulge in, at the beach, is Chana chaat, made with protein-rich kala chana (black chickpeas) tossed in simple spices and a dash of lemon juice. You’ll easily find a plateful of this grub being sold at various street food carts and temporary kiosks along the beach.
Address: Juhu Tara Road, Juhu

Masala Pav and Pav Bhaji at Maruti Pav Bhaji
If you know anything about Mumbai and its food choices, you’d know how obsessed Mumbaikars are with pav. A popular spot, known for its delicious masala pav—soft bread coated with a flavourful and spicy masala—Maruti Pav Bhaji does not fail to capture the true essence of street food. And while you are here, do try their Black Pav Bhaji as well. While the dish itself tastes heavenly, you’ll just have to try it to know what we are talking about.
Address: Shop No:24, Angelina Apartment, Ground Floor, Old Police Station Road, Kamala Nagar, Vile Parle

Kanda Poha at Mee Marathi
Located in Vile Parle East, Mee Marathi is a popular spot for Maharashtrian cuisine (just like the name suggests). While here, don’t forget to sample their special kanda poha, known for its balance of flavours and the use of fresh ingredients. This place can get crowded during peak hours, so make sure you get there ahead of time!
Address: Shop No. 5, Alpha Apartment, Parleshwar Road, Vile Parle East

Bhutta at Gupta Bhel Center
Along the sidewalks of Matunga, this spot attracts patrons from as far as Palghar. This desi corn-on-the-cob is a must monsoon food, roasted on coal and coated with paprika, salt and lemon to give it both zing and zest. Bhutta has been a constant in the monsoons from our childhood days, which is why we think you must visit here at least once to take full advantage of the climate.
Address: Shop No:24, Angelina Apartment, Ground Floor, Old Police Station Road, Kamala Nagar, Vile Parle

Now that we’ve let you in on our favourites, have you made a choice (or choices) yet?