Mumbai: Mumbai, India’s bustling metropolis, has secured an impressive 5th place in the prestigious ‘World’s Best Food Cities’ list by Taste Atlas Awards 2024-25. The city’s unique blend of street food, local delicacies, and world-class restaurants has earned it global recognition.
Released by the renowned food and travel guide, Taste Atlas, the rankings are based on extensive ratings from 17,073 cities and 15,478 dishes in their database, totalling 477,287 valid food reviews. The only cities ahead of Mumbai were culinary hubs from Italy: Naples, Milan, Bologna, and Florence.
On its website, Taste Atlas spotlighted Mumbai’s must-try dishes, such as Pav Bhaji, and Vada Pav, delectable sweets like Aamras and Shrikhand along with iconic eateries like Ram Ashraya, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, and Cafe Madras, emphasising the city’s rich culinary heritage.
From the iconic Pav Bhaji served on street corners to fine-dining experiences, Mumbai offers an exciting array of culinary experiences that attract food lovers worldwide.
The city’s food culture is deeply rooted in its history, with influences from various regions, cultures, and communities. Whether it’s savouring the spicy and tangy flavours of Vada Pav or indulging in traditional Maharashtrian Misal, Mumbai’s food scene promises a feast for the senses.
Take a look at the list of ‘Best Food Cities in the World’:
Best Eatries in Mumbai, as per Taste Atlas
There are many good eateries in Mumbai as per Taste Atlas, but here is the list of the top 5:
1. Leopold Café
Renowned for its Tandoori, Keema, and Tikka, Leopold Café is an iconic establishment located on Colaba Causeway, one of Mumbai’s busiest streets. Known as the city’s oldest Irani café, it also symbolises resilience, having stood firm after the tragic 2008 attacks. Fans of the novel Shantaram will find this spot particularly intriguing.
2. Ram Ashraya
Famous for serving what is considered the world’s most iconic Medu Vada, Ram Ashraya at Matunga is also celebrated for its delicious Upma and flavourful Coconut Chutney.
3. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay
This eatery located at Kalbadevi, is a haven for traditional Gujarati cuisine, known especially for its mouthwatering Khichdi, Shrikhand, and Aamras.
4. Nawab Saheb
A must-visit for North Indian cuisine lovers, Nawab Saheb at Powai is famous for its rich and creamy Dal Makhani, smoky Paneer Tikka, and hearty Sarson Da Saag.
5. Baba Falooda
If you’re craving delicious Kulfi Falooda, Baba Falooda at Mahim is the ultimate destination. Known for its affordability, generous portions, and irresistible taste, this spot is a favourite among dessert lovers.
Food you must try in Mumbai
1. Pav Bhaji
Pav Bhaji, a beloved street food from Maharashtra is a popular street snack and a staple on restaurant menus in Mumbai. The dish has evolved, offering various versions with added ingredients like cheese, paneer, mushrooms, plantains, and even dried fruits, enhancing its already rich and flavourful curry base.
Recommended eatery: Sardar Pav Bhaji at Tardeo
2. Vada Pav
Vada Pav, one of Mumbai’s most iconic street foods, traces its origins to the 1960s and 1970s, when Ashok Vaidya, a street vendor near Dadar train station, invented it as a quick, affordable, and portable meal for Mumbai’s hungry workers.
The popularity of Vada Pav soared, especially when the Shiv Sena political party championed it as the perfect working-class snack, cementing its cultural significance in Mumbai.
Today, Vada Pav is ubiquitous, available from bustling street stalls to upscale restaurants. It is traditionally paired with a tangy and spicy red chutney made from coconut, peanuts, garlic, tamarind, and chillies, adding a punch of flavour to every bite.
Recommended eatery: Ashok Vada Pav at Dadar
3. Misal
Misal is a traditional and beloved dish from Maharashtra, known for its vibrant and spicy flavours. Thanks to its nutritional value, ease of preparation, and affordability, Misal remains one of the region’s most popular and satisfying meals.
Recommended eatery: Aaswad, Dadar
Other Indian cities on the list
Three other Indian cities joined Mumbai in the top 50 of the list.
Amritsar ranked 43rd,
New Delhi secured the 45th spot,
Hyderabad followed closely at 50th.
Additionally, Kolkata and Chennai also made the top 100, placing 71st and 75th, respectively.
From humble street food vendors to high-end restaurants, Mumbai offers an unforgettable culinary journey for every food enthusiast. Mumbai’s food culture continues to shine on the global stage, making it a top destination for food lovers.
If you haven’t experienced Mumbai’s vibrant food scene yet, now is the perfect time to indulge in its culinary treasures, with new eateries and traditional favourites waiting to be explored.
Mumbai has claimed the 5th spot in Taste Atlas’ ‘World’s Best Food Cities’ list for 2024-25. From iconic street food to fine dining, discover why Mumbai’s culinary scene is a global favourite. Food & Drink Lifestyle News -Fashion Trends, Beauty Tips, Celebrity Party News, Relationship advice, Travel and Food Tips
