How long does it take to walk the Khau Galli route?

The full walk typically takes 2 to 3 hours. This includes walking time and approximately 15-20 minutes at each of the 6 major stops to enjoy the food.

Is South Mumbai safe for solo travelers at night?

Yes, South Mumbai is one of the safest areas in India for solo travelers. The streets are well-lit and remain very busy until late at night, especially around food hubs like Colaba and Chowpatty.

Where can I find the best Pav Bhaji in Mumbai?

Sukh Sagar at Girgaon Chowpatty and Cannon Pav Bhaji near CST are two of the most famous locations. Sukh Sagar offers a beachside vibe, while Cannon is known for its intense, buttery flavor favored by commuters.

What is the history of Pancham Puriwala?

Pancham Puriwala is one of Mumbai's oldest eateries, reportedly established in the 1840s. It has served generations of Mumbaikars its signature Puri Bhaji from its location near the CSMT station.

Are there vegetarian options on a Mumbai food walk?

Absolutely. Most of the stops on this route, including Sukh Sagar, Sharmajee'ss, and Pancham Puriwala, are either entirely vegetarian or offer extensive vegetarian menus.

When is the best time to visit Girgaon Chowpatty for food?

The best time is between 5:00 PM and 7:00 PM. This allows you to witness the sunset over the Arabian Sea just as the food stalls reach their peak evening energy.

How do I get from CST to Colaba for street food?

It is a short 10-minute taxi ride or a 25-30 minute walk. Walking allows you to see the historic architecture of the Fort district and the Flora Fountain along the way.

Zigway - The Guide Follows You

About This Tour

Mumbai is a city that never sleeps, and nowhere is this more evident than in its 'Khau Gallis'—literally translated as 'Eating Lanes.' This self-guided walk invites you to experience the sensory explosion of South Mumbai's street food culture, spanning from the breezy shores of Girgaon Chowpatty to the historic shadows of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CSMT) and ending in the vibrant alleys of Colaba. On this walking route, you are the master of your own culinary itinerary, allowing you to linger over a spicy Pav Bhaji or skip ahead to a refreshing seasonal fruit cream. Your journey begins at the iconic Girgaon Chowpatty, a beachside hub where Mumbai’s diverse population gathers to watch the sunset and snack on local favorites. You'll discover the secrets of the perfect Vada Pav and see why the city’s buttery Pav Bhaji has become a global legend. As you transition toward the heart of the city near the UNESCO-listed CST station, the flavors shift from seaside snacks to historic staples. You will encounter eateries that have been serving the same recipes for over 180 years, witnessing the living history of the city through its spices and aromas. This neighborhood stroll isn't just about the food; it's a deep dive into the soul of Mumbai, where the elite and the common man stand shoulder-to-shoulder at stainless steel tables. The route concludes in Colaba, an area known for its colonial architecture and late-night food scene. Here, the scent of charcoal-grilled kebabs fills the air, marking the perfect end to your exploration. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, this walking tour Mumbai offers provides a safe and flexible way to navigate the bustling streets without the pressure of a group. Enjoy the freedom to explore independently, taking in the sights of the Gateway of India and the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel as you move between stops. This is more than a meal; it is a self-guided adventure through the flavors that define the maximum city. **Note:** This area is known for its ever-changing character. Street art, pop-up venues, and temporary exhibitions may differ from what's described. That's part of the adventure - you might discover something entirely new!

Highlights

Taste the legendary butter-laden Pav Bhaji at Sukh Sagar

Visit Bachelorr’s, a 1930s institution famous for spicy chili ice cream

Sample the historic 'Puri Bhaji' at Pancham Puriwala, operating since the 1840s

Experience the high-energy street food scene near the historic CST station

Witness the late-night kebab culture at Bademiya in Colaba

Stroll along the Marine Drive 'Queen’s Necklace' between culinary stops

Tour Stops (6)

Sukh Sagar

Welcome to the starting point of your culinary adventure at Girgaon Chowpatty. Sukh Sagar is an institution in Mumbai, synonymous with the city's fast-paced food culture. While it started as a small juice center, it gained fame for its Pav Bhaji—a thick vegetable curry served with soft, buttered bread. Notice the speed at which the 'Bhaji' is mashed on the large flat griddles. This dish originated in the 1850s as a quick lunch for textile mill workers. Today, it is a staple for everyone from college students to Bollywood stars. Take a moment to enjoy the sea breeze here; this beach is the spiritual home of Mumbai’s street food.

SHARMAJEE'SS

Just a short walk from the beach, you’ll find SHARMAJEE'SS. This spot is a local favorite for what many call the 'Burger of Mumbai'—the Vada Pav. It consists of a deep-fried potato dumpling placed inside a bread bun, laced with spicy garlic chutney. The Vada Pav is more than just a snack; it is a symbol of Maharashtrian pride. While you’re here, look for the 'Samosa Pav' as well. The street food here is prepared fresh throughout the evening. Because these stalls are highly popular, expect a bit of a crowd, but the turnover is fast. It’s the perfect place to witness the organized chaos of Mumbai's food lanes.

Bachelorr's - Chowpatty (Since 1930's)

Bachelorr's has been a fixture of the Marine Drive curve since the 1930s. Originally a small roadside stall, it became famous for its high-quality fruit creams and shakes. If you’re feeling adventurous, look for their unconventional flavors like green chili or ginger ice cream. However, most locals come here for the seasonal Sitaphal (custard apple) or Alphonso mango creams. Historically, this was a popular 'drive-in' spot where people would park their cars along the road and be served on trays attached to their windows. It remains a classic example of how Mumbai’s food scene adapts to its limited physical space.

Cannon Pav Bhaji

To reach Cannon, you’ll head toward the magnificent Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus. Cannon Pav Bhaji is perfectly positioned for the thousands of commuters who pass through the station daily. Unlike the beachside version, the Pav Bhaji here is known for being particularly spicy and heavily buttered. It’s a standing-room-only kind of place, reflecting the 'maximum city' energy. As you eat, take a look at the Victorian Gothic architecture of the train station across the street. This stop highlights how street food in Mumbai is integrated into the very fabric of the city's most historic districts.

Pancham Puriwala

Located just a stone's throw from the CST station, Pancham Puriwala is a living piece of history. Legend has it that the founder walked from North India to Mumbai and started this eatery in the 1840s, making it one of the oldest standing restaurants in the city. Their specialty is 'Puri Bhaji'—deep-fried puffed bread served with a variety of vegetable curries. The interior is simple and functional, unchanged for decades. It provides a fascinating contrast to the more modern food stalls you’ve visited. This is a place where history isn’t just in the books; it’s on the plate.

Bademiya - Colaba

Your final stop is Bademiya, tucked in the narrow lanes behind the Taj Mahal Palace Hotel. What started as a small makeshift charcoal grill in the 1940s has grown into a legendary destination for meat lovers. The specialty here is Seekh Kebabs and Baida Rotis (meat-stuffed bread). The atmosphere is electric, with smoke from the grills rising into the night air. While Bademiya now has indoor seating nearby, the true experience is standing in the lane, eating off the bonnet of a car or at the small outdoor tables. It is the quintessential Mumbai late-night experience, marking the end of your culinary journey through South Mumbai.

Frequently Asked Questions

The South Mumbai route from Chowpatty to Colaba is widely considered the best. It covers iconic institutions like Sukh Sagar, Bachelorr's, and Bademiya, offering a mix of beach snacks, historic meals, and late-night kebabs.