Mumbai on a Mission: A Budget Foodie’s Guide to the Best Bites
Hey foodies! Calling all budget ballers and curry connoisseurs! I’m here to take your tastebuds on a joyride through the vibrant streets of Mumbai. My bestie Vidhi needed some bomb eats on a budget, and let me tell you, this city does NOT disappoint! So ditch the fancy restaurants and dive into the real Mumbai magic — these are the must-try local joints that won’t break the bank:
1. Vinay Health Home: The Missal Pav OG
This place isn’t fancy, but it’s FAM. I’m basically their unofficial mascot and their Missal Pav is the holy grail. It’s been a family fave since my Dad’s childhood, and the taste? Legendary. Don’t miss the Sabudana Vada (perfect crispy potato fritters) and the Kotambir Vadi (fresh coriander dumplings) for a side-kick explosion. Wash it all down with a creamy Piyush (sweet saffron drink) for ultimate satisfaction.
Budget: 150–200 per person
Location: Charni Road
2. Suraj Lama Momos: A Little Piece of North-East Heaven
Calling all Delhi peeps (or momo addicts)! This is your Mumbai momo nirvana. Forget teleporting, these juicy dumplings will have you feeling like you’re in the Himalayas. They’re a tad pricier, but trust me, worth every rupee. Go for the Cheese Tandoori for a creamy, smoky experience, or the Pan-fried and Peri Peri for a spicy kick. Veg or non-veg, you won’t be disappointed!
Budget: 300–350 per person
Location: Multiple Locations (check online!)
3. Ram & Shyam Chaatwala: The OG Chaat Legends (Ignore the haters!)
This is a no-frills kind of joint — a classic “thela” (street cart) with zero pretense. Some folks say it’s overhyped, but those people are wrong. As your Mumbai food guru, trust me: this is a must-visit. They’re one of the oldest chaatwalas in town, and their quality is on point. Go for the Dahi Sev Puri (tangy and sweet explosion), Bhel Puri (puffed rice salad), Pani Puri (crispy spheres of joy with flavored water), and Sev Puri (a symphony of textures).
Budget: 100–150 per person
Location: Santacruz West
4. Gurukripa: Samosas that Feed Bollywood Stars
This iconic spot is a fave for Mumbai’s A-listers, and for good reason. Their samosas are legendary, and they deliver them to pretty much all the movie theaters in the city! No matter when you roll up, expect a line (it’s worth it!). Must-tries include Samosa Chole Tikki (samosa patty in chickpea curry), Pav Bhaji (a veggie delight with soft buns), Dal Pakwan (lentil curry with crispy flatbread), and Lassi (creamy yogurt drink).
Budget: 200–250 per person
Location: Sion
5. Aaswad Upahar & Mithai Gruh: Dhaba Feels, 5-Star Prices
Think fancy dhaba (Indian eatery) vibes with CRAZY low prices? That’s Aaswad. This place will blow your mind. Their service is lightning-fast, and the food is pure Mumbai magic. Get ready to devour Thalipith (stuffed flatbread), Pithale Bhaji Bhakri (chickpea flour curry with flatbread), Varan Bhat (savory lentil stew with rice), and Sabudana Khichadi (tapioca pearls and potato goodness).
Budget: 150–200 per person
Location: Dadar West
Bonus Round: Kebab Gunj — Non-Veg Nirvana
This hidden gem is a must for all meat lovers. Hands down, the BEST Dal Makhni (black lentil curry) I’ve had in Mumbai. Seating is limited (think 5–6 people), but the flavors are SO good, you won’t even care.
Budget: 300–350 per person
Location: Colaba
Don’t miss: Gauloti Kebab (melt-in-your-mouth lamb), Paneer Butter Masala (richest, creamiest cheese dish), and of course, the Dal Makhni.
Let me know in the comments what your favorite Mumbai eats are! And if you want more budget-friendly food adventures, hit that like button and stay tuned for part two, where we’ll be exploring the street food scene and hidden gems of the suburbs. In the meantime, happy eating, and happy exploring!
