Street Food & Local Restaurants
- Aj
- Feb 25
- 7 min read
Bademiya
Bademiya, a legendary kebab stand tucked behind the iconic Taj Hotel near the Gateway of India, has grown from humble beginnings into one of Mumbai's most renowned culinary landmarks. Founded by Mohammad Yaseen in 1946, what began as a modest cart serving kebabs in a desolate alley has blossomed into a must-visit destination for food lovers. Over the decades, "Bademiya" (a term affectionately meaning "elder brother") has become synonymous with the vibrant flavours and bustling nightlife of Colaba. The energy surrounding this iconic eatery is palpable, with locals and tourists alike flocking here to taste its famed kebabs.
Bademiya isn’t about fancy décor or lavish settings – it's all about the food. You’re not coming here for a five-star ambience; you're here for the authentic, no-frills experience where food takes centre stage. The smokiness of the kebabs, the subtle spice of the chutneys, and the soft, pillowy rumali rotis steal the show every time. Whether it's the succulent Chicken Reshmi Tikka or the rich, flavour-packed mutton bhuna, each bite delivers a punch of taste that’s impossible to forget. While the Chicken Bhuna may have fallen short, the seekh kebabs, bursting with flavour, are always a hit.
From its street-stall roots to now serving crowds at all hours, Bademiya remains an unmissable part of Mumbai’s culinary fabric. It’s the kind of place where the food speaks for itself, and every bite tells a story of tradition, spice, and satisfaction.
Address: -
Bademiya, Colaba (Main Outlet)
Tulloch Rd, Apollo Bunder, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400001
Bademiya, Fort
Address: Fort Market, Bombay Samachar Marg, Kala Ghoda, Fort, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400023
Bademiya, Bandra
Shop No. 2-B, Ground Floor, Geeta Niketan, Linking Rd, Near Shoppers Stop, Bandra West, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400050
Price for two: ₹500 - ₹700 or USD $5.95 - $8.33
Operational Hours: 12:00 PM -4:00 AM
Sardar Pav Bhaji
Being one of Mumbai's famous eateries, renowned for serving one of the scrumptious pav bhaji in the city is Sardar Pav Bhaji in Tardeo, near Mumbai Central. Its richness and buttery generous portions made it a magnet for food lovers for decades. What began as a humble street stall in 1966, founded by Sardar Ahmed, quickly became a sensation among locals. Ahmed’s idea was born out of necessity; he used to sell vegetables outside mills and observed the tired workers craving something quick and filling. With the vegetables he had at hand, he whipped up a simple yet satisfying snack that evolved into the pav bhaji we know today, and the rest is history.
Though the restaurant doesn’t boast a fancy ambience, the food more than compensates for it. The aroma of sizzling butter approaches you as soon as you step into the restaurant. The seating is simple and functional, with the focus entirely on delivering piping-hot plates of pav bhaji that have been perfected over the years. Being a street dish, Sardar's signature pav bhaji is known for its rich & buttery texture. Blended mashed veggies are cooked with desi spices and garnished with dollops of butter, along with its butter-toasted soft buns, often called pav in Mumbai. The generous serving size and the unique, rich flavour are what set Sardar Pav Bhaji apart from the rest. For those looking for an extra indulgence, you can always ask for more butter on top!
A regular pav bhaji costs INR 155, while the Jain version is priced at INR 170, making it an affordable yet incredibly satisfying meal. Apart from these two dishes, you may come across khada bhaji pav and cheese pav bhaji. The varieties you're served with make it a versatile spot for all kinds of diners. Treat yourself to their strawberry milkshake or caramel custard, which are quite popular, apart from their pav bhaji.
Sardar Pav Bhaji holds a special place in Mumbai's street food culture, having been a part of the city’s culinary landscape for over five decades. It continues to attract office-goers, students, and food enthusiasts alike, ensuring that its legacy lives on.
Address: Junction, 166-A, Tardeo Rd, Janata Nagar, Tardeo, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400034
Price for two: ₹400 - ₹800 or USD $4.76 - $9.52
Operational Hours: 11:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Bachelorr’s
Bachelorr’s near Girgaon Chowpatty is one of Mumbai’s most iconic dessert and fast food joints, with a history that dates back to 1930. Located near the bustling Girgaon Chowpatty beach, this legendary eatery has become a favourite spot for locals and tourists alike, especially for a post-beach treat or a late-night snack. Bachelorr’s began as a humble juice stall, founded by Om Prakash Agarwal, who arrived in Mumbai with nothing. He started selling fruit plates and juices, and eventually, the place became a hit. Over the decades, it evolved into a thriving business that is still run by the Agarwal family today.
The food is what makes Bachelorr's so magical. Being famous for its rich and decadent milkshakes, it has gained its own fanbase. Their iconic flavors are chocolate, sitaphal which is custard apple, and lastly, strawberry. This doesn't end here though, Bachelorr's wildly popular fusion drink called Tongue Twister has chillies, vanilla extract, mint, and various spices which sounds like an adventure to go through. The thick, creamy shakes are a meal in themselves, and their Falooda and Thandai ice creams are also crowd-pleasers.
Also, if you come to Mumbai during winter (November-March), don't miss out on Bachelorr's Strawberry Cream, which is a seasonal sweet treat.
Keeping their menu of varieties of milkshakes, Bachelorr's menu also includes various pizzas, toasts, sandwiches, as well as pav bhaji, making Bachelorr's an iconic spot to grab a quick & scrumptious bite. It’s not just about the food—Bachelorr’s has become a favourite hangout spot for the city’s youth. With its casual, street-side vibe, it’s perfect for car dining or standing around with friends, soaking in the lively atmosphere. The place is always buzzing, especially in the evenings, making it a go-to destination for families, couples, and groups of friends alike.
If you're exploring Mumbai’s street food scene, a stop at Bachelorr's is essential. With its unbeatable location by Girgaon Chowpatty and its legendary food, it’s a quintessential Mumbai experience.
Address: Sattar Sea View Hotel, 45, Ext, Chowpatty Seaface, Road, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400007
Price for two: ₹400 - ₹600 or USD $4.76 - $7.14
Operational Hours: 01:00 PM - 01:00 AM
Bagdadi
Bagdadi is one of Mumbai’s oldest and most cherished eateries, located in Colaba, near the Gateway of India. Known for its unpretentious yet delicious Mughlai and North Indian cuisine, Bagdadi has been a favourite among locals, tourists, and workers since it opened its doors decades ago. Despite its humble setting, with simple wooden benches and a no-frills ambience, the restaurant’s food more than makes up for it.
What draws people to Bagdadi is the generous portions of hearty, flavorful dishes at pocket-friendly prices. The most popular item on the menu is the iconic chicken curry, served with a massive portion of soft, fluffy bread or fragrant basmati rice. Their mutton dishes, especially the mutton masala, are also a big hit. For those seeking a lighter option, the restaurant offers dal fry, egg curry, and vegetable curries, ensuring that even vegetarians leave satisfied.
Bagdadi’s menu is simple, but the dishes are packed with traditional, rich flavours that reflect the heritage of Mumbai’s diverse food culture. Many visitors rave about their caramel custard, a perfect dessert to finish off a hearty meal.
Located just a short walk from the bustling Colaba Causeway, Bagdadi attracts everyone from office-goers to backpackers to foodies looking for an authentic and affordable meal in South Mumbai. The informal, old-school vibe adds to the experience, making Bagdadi a must-visit for those looking to dive into Mumbai’s local food scene without breaking the bank.
Address: InterContinental Hotel, Tulloch Rd, behind The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Apollo Bandar, Colaba, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400039
Price for two: ₹600 - ₹800 or USD $7.14 - $9.52
Operational Hours: 07:00 AM - 12:30 PM
K. Rustom & Co.
Established in 1953, this old-school Iranian ice cream parlour has been an iconic spot beautified with vivid, colourful bulbs year-round. K. Rustom & Co., often known as K. Rustom's amongst teens, has been wallowing dessert foodies with its famous ice cream biscuits. The signature treat features a generous slab of creamy ice cream sandwiched between crispy wafer biscuits and wrapped in delicate butter paper.
Among the most popular flavours are walnut crunch and kesar pista, which are enhanced with chunks of walnut and caramelised sugar or bits of pistachio, respectively. The story of K. Rustom’s began with K. Rustom and his family serving ice cream bars on elegant glass and porcelain plates to families and tourists strolling along Marine Drive. Over the years, the family transitioned to the ice cream biscuits they are renowned for today, evolving while maintaining the charm of their original concept.
While K. Rustom's has kept the classic flavours that made them famous, they've also embraced innovation. The team regularly experiments with new flavours, inspired both by their creativity and suggestions from loyal customers. New additions have included unique combinations like paan, ginger lemon, and choco roasted almond crunch. Interestingly, despite some family members having their fill of sweets (one even having diabetes), they still indulge occasionally for quality control—because who can resist a taste test?
A delightful quirk of K. Rustom’s is their playful take on the 'new' flavours sign. While they continue to add fresh options, they humorously leave the 'new' label on older additions, allowing it to grow into a humorous tradition.
Locating the ice cream parlour can be a bit of an adventure; you might be confused at first when you’re redirected to the actual entrance, which features the shop’s name in smaller letters. Once you step inside and enjoy their delicious offerings, particularly the walnut crunch flavour, you’ll be glad you made an effort. Though they don’t deliver, you can order a family-sized ice cream bar packed in an insulated case that serves nine or more, perfect for sharing.
K. Rustom & Co. makes the most of seasonal fruits, crafting delightful peach and sitafal ice creams that they sandwich between their biscuits each summer. With its inviting atmosphere and a family that embodies both humour and dedication to quality, K. Rustom’s is a beloved Mumbai classic. Whether you’re craving a simple yet delightful ice cream treat or looking to spend a breezy afternoon with a piece of Mumbai’s heritage, this spot is well worth returning to again and again.
Address: Brabourne Stadium, 86, Veer Nariman Rd, Opposite to Ambassador Hotel, Churchgate, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400020
Price for two: ₹80 - ₹160 or USD $0.95 - $1.90
