Bombay, an old metrop perched on the very western flank of the country that is to have witnessed the earliest colonial liaisons rooted in condiments, presents a convivial food scene with a blend of influences from Portuguese, British and Parsi settlers. From near-heritage sea-facing breakfast cafes to street-side vendors, you can hardly move around in the city and fail to encounter an epicurean nibblet that captures the essence of Bombay’s culinary diversity. The city’s culinary landscape reflects its rich history imbued in street food like vada pav and bhel puri to traditional Parsi delicacies like dhansak. The city’s food scene is an ever evolving narrative of taste, culture and history, from the bustling streets of Mohammed Ali Road during Ramadan to the serene coastal restaurants serving freshly caught fish. Here are the top five food tours that guarantee a memorable experience for foodies wishing to discover Mumbai’s thriving culinary scene.
With this greatly cherished tour, embark on a gastronomic adventure through Mumbai's thriving street food scene. Explore well-known spots like the busy Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus, Kyani & Co., and Girgaon Chowpatty, which are as famous food hubs as iconic landmarks of the city. You'll have the opportunity to try a gamut of street foods as you stroll through these busy neighbourhoods, such as the well-liked Vada Pav, the tart Pani Puri, and the rich, buttery Pav Bhaji. For those who wish to interact with the local vendors who make these treats come to life and savour the genuine flavours of Mumbai's busy streets, this tour is ideal. The vibrant atmosphere of the city's street food scene in this circuit wagers to mesmerise you.
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While I tend to adhere to an adage by the late veteran Anthony Bourdain, who said, "Be a traveller, not a tourist," there is always the added benefit of tagging along with an informed guide. This all-inclusive tour provides an immersive experience with an informed local guide for a deeper dive into Mumbai's varied culinary landscape. Signing up for this, you'll spend four hours touring several high-ranking neighbourhood restaurants and undiscovered treasures that not even many residents may be aware of. Savoury non-vegetarian specialities like Butter Chicken and Mutton Kebabs will be sampled alongside tasty vegetarian options like Dhokla and Idli. With an emphasis on both well-known and lesser-known culinary gems, this equilibrious tour is appropriate for all ages and offers a wonderful introduction to the city's rich food culture.
This peripatetic tour, regarded as one of the best street food tours in the world, leads you through Mumbai's well-known "Khau Gullies," or food lanes, which are bustling with activity and fragrant with delicious food. You'll sample a range of street foods as you meander through these busy alleyways, each with its own distinct flavour and history. Mumbai's rich culinary heritage is reflected in every bite, from the spicy Sev Puri to the sweet Jalebi. The tour is a must-do for any foodie travelling to Mumbai since the guide will provide fascinating insights into the cultural significance of each dish. It's a delicious blend of cuisine, culture and history that will tantalise your senses.
This tour offers the comfort and convenience of a private vehicle along with visits to some of Mumbai's best street food destinations for those who want a more individualised experience. Without having to battle the commotion of public transit, you can now take your time exploring the city's culinary hotspots. You will sample delicacies like kebab rolls, bhurji pav, and kheema pav at famous food markets and stalls. By adding a layer of comfort, the private vehicle makes it simpler to travel farther and take advantage of the variety of options without any problems. For individuals seeking a thorough introduction to Mumbai's street food scene with the option to personalise their schedule, this tour is perfect.
Sign yourself up for this specialised tour to fully experience the flavours of Mumbai's Muslim quarter. As Mumbai is truly an embroidered medley of various cultures, it offers various pockets that act as windows to new encounters. On this journey, you can discover the quaint, winding streets of Bohri Mohalla, a district renowned for its savoury, rich non-vegetarian street cuisine. This tour provides a distinctive culinary experience that familiarises you with the varied food culture of Mumbai's Muslim neighbourhood, featuring delectable kebabs, fragrant biryanis, and fiery curries. In order to guarantee that every dish is prepared to the highest standards, your guide will introduce you to the local chefs and vendors who have been honing their trade for generations. For foodies, this tour offers a more profound comprehension of the local culinary and cultural customs, making it a rewarding experience.