Mumbai is also known as the city of dreams and the city that never sleeps. Mumbaikars are filled with endless energy, and its mosaic of communities makes it the favourite city for passionate food explorers. This city is filled with a treasure trove of flavours that are waiting to be discovered. Try these hyper-regional Indian cuisines that often stay hidden. Mumbai has a unique culinary heritage- taste, history, tradition, and the many souls of a community. Let me take you on a delicious hunt for some authentic flavours which you might not have tried yet!
My Top 5 Hidden Culinary Gems in Mumbai
1. Sindhi Delights
The Sindhi community is well known for its rich culture and has a wholesome and flavorful cuisine. Their food is very comforting, hearty, and has distinct species rarely found anywhere. [READ: The Ultimate List of Mumbai’s Must-Try Korean Restaurants]
Explore the eatery tucked away in a bustling lane in Chembur to feel the authentic taste. Find the best Sindhi food in Mumbai with no fuss or frills, Simple, just full of flavours. Must try Sindhi dishes are- Dal Pakwan, Sindhi Kadhi with Bhuga Chawal, and Aloo Tuk. Sindhi cuisine loves to celebrate the robust and earthy flavours. It may not look very complicated, but every dish is the best combination of taste and texture.
2. Saraswat Seafood
Saraswat cuisine comes from the Konkan coast. If you are a seafood lover this cuisine is going to be your favourite. Dishes are made using a generous amount of coconut, kokum, and some spices. Flavours are so delicately balanced that the freshness of the catch remains.
Matsya The Saraswat Seafood Family Restaurant, Goregaon, is well-loved. Families come here to enjoy their meals while the air is filled with the super tempting scent of fried fish and rich curries. Must-Try Dishes from Saraswat Seafood- Tisrya Sukke, Fish Thali with Kokum Kadhi, and Bombil Fry. Get straight to straight to a coastal village with Saraswat cuisine.
3. Bohri Cuisine
This Communal Feast is not just about the dishes, but an experience built around the thaal. Thaal is a massive communal platter where families gather and share their meal. The Bohri community have their roots in Yemen and got settled in Gujarat and Rajasthan. Hence, their cuisine has a unique blend of sweet, sour, and spicy notes, with a greater emphasis on meat. Their cooking involves slow processes that give the meat a very rich flavour. [READ: 8 Quick and Easy Airfryer Recipes for Indian Kitchen ]
Must-Try Dishes from Bohri Cuisine- Malida, Sancha Ice Cream, Dabba Gosht, Dal Chawal Palida, and Smoked Mutton Samosas. Enjoy the Authentic Bohri food in Mumbai through specialised home chefs or find any local food groups.
4. East Indian Cuisine
The vibrant East Indian cuisine comes from the older parts of Mumbai. Christian community and their food both have unique histories.
Must-Try Dishes from East Indian Cuisine in Mumbai- Bottle Masala, Pork Vindaloo, Fugias, and Sorpotel. Enjoy the authentic East Indian food at any community events, local fests, or smaller, traditional eateries in old East Indian villages located in Bandra, Thane, Vasai, or Gorai.
5. Malvani Cuisine
Saraswat and Malvani cuisines, both originating from the Konkan region of India, have distinct characteristics. Saraswat cuisine uses more coconut and is subtly different. Malvani cuisine has a very bold and spicy flavour, often having more seafood and meat dishes. The good amount of coconut, kokum, and a special Malvani Masala makes these dishes very special. Seafood is the king here, but their chicken and vegetarian dishes are equally loved.
Must-Try Dishes in Malvani Cuisine- Malvani Fish Curry, Kombdi Vade, and Solkadhi. Mumbai has many authentic Malvani restaurants, especially in the areas of Dadar, Mahim, Andheri, and Goregaon. Always go for smaller eateries that focus only on their coastal specialities.
Conclusion:
Mumbai is not just about fast-paced life- it’s a living and breathing culinary museum. Mumbai’s hidden culinary gems and these dishes scream history, community, and the incredible diversity that defines India. Go for your culinary hunt in and around Mumbai. Take the help of neighbours, groups, and they may help you find the best authentic dish.
Happy eating, Mumbai foodies!