Exact locations with landmarks – so you can easily spot them. Brief Introduction – The Flavour of Mumbai’s Street Food Heritage
“Where butter melts, spices dance, and pav meets bhaji — Mumbai serves magic on a plate!”
When we talk about Mumbai’s street food, one dish stands above all others: Pav Bhaji. A humble yet flavourful blend of buttery bread rolls (pav) and a rich, spicy vegetable curry (bhaji), Pav Bhaji has evolved from a quick meal for textile mill workers in the 1850s to an iconic comfort food enjoyed by every generation of Mumbaikars. This dish is not just food — it is nostalgia, culture, and celebration served on a steel plate.
But what makes Mumbai’s Pav Bhaji so special? Is it the perfectly balanced spices, the unmistakable aroma of sizzling butter, or the late-night roadside stalls buzzing with locals and tourists alike? The answer lies in a mix of all these — plus the unique stories of each legendary eatery that has been serving Pav Bhaji for decades, some even for over 50 years.
In this article, we bring you the Top 15 Pav Bhaji spots handpicked by Mumbaikars themselves. Each spot has its own history, recipe secrets, ambience, and charm. Some started as small stalls near railway stations, while others grew into multi-branch food chains. From the buzzing lanes of Chowpatty to iconic juice centers in Juhu, from old-school eateries in South Mumbai to hidden gems in the suburbs — this list covers it all.
Our journey will cover:
History & Origin of each Pav Bhaji centre, with timelines and interesting anecdotes.
Ambience & Architecture – from modest roadside stalls to art-deco-inspired restaurants.
Pricing – detailed breakdown of average cost per plate, combos, and extras.
Exact Locations & Landmarks – so you never get lost on your food trail.
How to Reach & Best Routes – with multiple options including trains, metro, buses, rickshaws, and cars.
Best Time to Visit – when to enjoy Pav Bhaji without the long queues.
Interviews with Locals – real opinions from Mumbaikars who have been loyal to these stalls for decades.
We’ll also provide:
Expanded itineraries if you want to do a “Pav Bhaji Food Trail” across Mumbai in a day or two.
FAQs answering practical questions about Pav Bhaji in Mumbai.
Conclusion tying together why this dish isn’t just food but an emotion for Mumbai.
Think of this guide as your complete Pav Bhaji travelogue + food diary. Whether you’re a local exploring new spots or a tourist wanting an authentic Mumbai experience, this article is your buttery roadmap to the best Pav Bhaji in the city.
So, grab your appetite and let’s begin this delicious journey through Mumbai’s 15 most iconic Pav Bhaji destinations .
Top 15 centres expressed in brief.
Cannon Pav Bhaji – CST Fort Area
- History (Est. 1975, iconic near CST Station)
- Pricing & Menu
- Ambience & Architecture
- Exact Location + Landmarks
- How to Reach (local train CST, metro, cab, bus routes)
- Best Time to Visit
- Interviews & Local Opinions
Sardar Refreshments – Tardeo
- History (Serving since 1968, credited with popularising extra-butter pav bhaji)
- Pricing details
- Ambience description
- Location & Landmarks (near Tardeo RTO, Haji Ali)
- Travel routes & options
- Best time
Amar Juice Centre – Juhu
- Established in 1970s, famous among college crowd
- Pricing (₹180–₹250 per plate)
- Landmark: Opp. Cooper Hospital, near Juhu Beach
- Travel routes from Andheri, Bandra
- Ambience: buzzing, open-air, neon-light charm
Achija – Ghatkopar
- History since 1971
- Popular with Ghatkopar locals
- Location: near Garodia Nagar
- Routes: Metro (Ghatkopar), Eastern Express Highway acces
Shiv Sagar – Chowpatty
- Founded 1982, iconic South Mumbai brand
- Exact landmark: Opp. Chowpatty Beach
- Perfect after an evening at Marine Drive
Sadguru Pav Bhaji – Chembur
- Since 1969
- Landmark: Opp. Diamond Garden
- Known for variety (cheese, paneer, Jain options)
Sukh Sagar – Chowpatty
- Since 1962, one of the oldest surviving Pav Bhaji hubs
- Landmark: Close to Girgaon Chowpatty
- Ambience: Old-school, semi-modern interiors
Bhagwati Pav Bhaji – Borivali
- Famous since 1990s in Western Suburbs
- Location: Opp. Don Bosco School
- Ambience: Family-friendly casual eatery
Bademiya Pav Bhaji – Colaba
- Started 1946 (as kebab joint, Pav Bhaji added later)
- Landmark: Near Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Colaba Causeway
Malhar Pav Bhaji – Dadar
- Established in 1980s
- Popular among Shivaji Park residents
- Landmark: Near Sena Bhavan
Manohar Pav Bhaji – Girgaon
- Since 1965
- Landmark: Opera House area
Laxmi Narayan Pav Bhaji – Vile Parle
- Since 1978
- Landmark: Near Parleshwar temple
Cream Centre – Chowpatty
- Iconic fine-dine version of Pav Bhaji since 1958
- Landmark: Opp. Chowpatty Beach
Honest Pav Bhaji – Borivali & Multiple Outlets
- Gujarati chain brought to Mumbai in 1990s
- Famous for variety and spicy flavours
Bachelorr’s – Marine Lines
- Since 1940, legendary spot
- Famous for fruit juices + Pav Bhaji
- Landmark: Near Marine Drive flyover
Expanded Sections per Eatery with detailed inclusion of:
- History timeline
- Pricing (₹150–₹400 per plate depending on place)
- Ambience & Architecture
- Landmark for easy navigation
- How to Reach (with 6–7 detailed points)
- Best Time to Visit
- Local Interviews
Section-by-section Detailed Expansion
Top 15 Pav Bhaji Spots Picked by Mumbaikars – The Ultimate Foodie Guide
Detailed Introduction – Where Butter Meets Bhaji, and Mumbai Meets Magic
“Every Mumbaikar has a Pav Bhaji story — what’s yours?”
Mumbai isn’t just a city; it’s a heartbeat that thrives on culture, cinema, chaos, and most importantly — food. Among the long list of street foods that define Mumbai’s soul, Pav Bhaji reigns supreme. This legendary dish is more than just spiced mashed vegetables with buttered bread rolls. It’s the aroma of sizzling butter on a hot tawa, the echo of vendors shouting orders at midnight, the comfort of sharing a plate with friends after college, and the nostalgia of every Mumbaikar who’s grown up with it.
Pav Bhaji originated in the mid-19th century as a quick meal for textile mill workers in South Mumbai. Back then, workers needed something filling yet easy to eat during short lunch breaks. Vendors innovated by creating a spicy vegetable mash served with pav (bread rolls introduced by the Portuguese). What started as a humble working-class meal is now Mumbai’s most iconic comfort food, available everywhere from roadside stalls to fine-dine restaurants.
Today, Pav Bhaji is not just a dish — it’s a cultural symbol of Mumbai’s resilience and spirit. From Girgaon Chowpatty to Juhu Beach, from CST’s buzzing food stalls to the suburbs of Borivali and Ghatkopar, every corner of the city boasts its own legendary Pav Bhaji joint. And while the basic recipe remains the same, each eatery adds its own twist — more butter, extra spice, a dollop of cheese, or even fusion versions.
In this comprehensive foodie guide, we take you on a journey through the Top 15 Pav Bhaji spots picked by Mumbaikars themselves. These places aren’t just eateries; they’re institutions that have stood the test of time, serving generations of food lovers.
Here’s what you’ll find in this guide:
- Detailed history of each Pav Bhaji centre, with exact years of operation.
- Ambience and architecture – from roadside stalls to heritage eateries.
- Pricing breakdown – average cost per plate, combos, and extras.
- How to reach – multiple routes with trains, metro, buses, cabs, and walking trails.
- Best time to visit – to avoid crowds and get the freshest bhaji.
- Local interviews & stories – insights from Mumbaikars who’ve been loyal customers for decades.
- Expanded itineraries – if you want to do a “Pav Bhaji Trail” in one or two days.
- FAQs – answering the most common Pav Bhaji questions.
- Conclusion – why Pav Bhaji is more than food; it’s an emotion.
By the end of this guide, you’ll not only know where to eat the best Pav Bhaji in Mumbai but also why each of these places holds a special place in the city’s culinary heart.
So loosen your belt, bring your appetite, and get ready — because this is your ultimate Pav Bhaji pilgrimage across Mumbai .
Top 15 Pav Bhaji Spots Picked by Mumbaikars (Detailed Elaborated Information)
Cannon Pav Bhaji – CST Fort Area
History
Cannon Pav Bhaji has been around since 1975, located right opposite Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus (CST). Originally a small roadside stall catering to railway commuters, it quickly became famous for its spicy bhaji served with pav dripping in butter. Today, it’s one of the busiest food stalls in South Mumbai, attracting office-goers, tourists, and late-night foodies.
Ambience & Architecture
- The eatery isn’t fancy — it’s an open-air stall with plastic chairs and tables. But the ambience is electric, thanks to its location near CST. The glow of the station, honking cabs, and constant rush of people add to the vibe.
Pricing
- Regular Pav Bhaji: ₹220
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹280
- Extra Pav: ₹30 each
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Opp. CST Station Gate No. 2, Fort, Mumbai
Landmark: Just beside Azad Maidan, across the iconic CST building.
How to Reach (6–7 Detailed Routes)
- Take a Central/Harbour line train to CST; Cannon is across the road.
- Metro Line 3 (under construction) will connect here soon.
- From Colaba or Marine Drive, a 10-minute cab ride.
- Several BEST buses stop outside CST.
- Walkable from Crawford Market and Flora Fountain.
- Easy to reach via bike; parking limited.
- Perfect pitstop if you’re exploring South Mumbai on foot.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings (6 pm – 10 pm) when the place is buzzing. Midnight also sees a huge crowd of college kids and night-shift workers.
Local Interview
Ramesh, a banker working near CST, says: “I’ve been eating here since my college days in 1990. The taste hasn’t changed one bit. The butter and spice kick is unbeatable!”
Sardar Refreshments – Tardeo
History
Established in 1968, Sardar Refreshments is legendary. It is credited with popularising the “extra-butter Pav Bhaji” culture in Mumbai. Generations of college students, film stars, and politicians have dined here.
Ambience & Architecture
- The ambience is no-frills, with steel tables and dim lights. The highlight is watching pavs being drenched in butter on a massive tawa.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji (classic with loads of butter): ₹260
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹320
- Special Butter Pav Bhaji: ₹350
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Tardeo Road Junction, Near RTO, Mumbai.
Landmark: A 5-minute walk from Haji Ali Circle.
How to Reach (6–7 Points)
- Nearest railway station: Mumbai Central (10 mins by cab).
- Upcoming Metro Line 3 station nearby.
- Easily accessible from Haji Ali and Mahalaxmi.
- Several BEST buses to Tardeo RTO.
- Walkable if exploring Tardeo market.
- Two-wheeler accessible but parking is a challenge.
- Great for those walking from Haji Ali to Grant Road.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings, especially weekends. Avoid late nights as queues can stretch for 30–40 minutes.
Local Interview
Shalini, a college student, says: “Sardar’s Pav Bhaji is like butter heaven. Once you taste it, every other pav bhaji feels incomplete.”
Amar Juice Centre – Juhu
History
Amar Juice Centre opened in the late 1970s, starting as a juice bar. Over time, their Pav Bhaji became so popular that it overshadowed their original business. Today, Amar is a must-visit for students, locals, and late-night food lovers.
Ambience & Architecture
- Open-air setup with neon lights and a buzzing crowd till 3 am. Perfect for night owls.
Pricing
- Regular Pav Bhaji: ₹220
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹250
- Tawa Pulao (popular add-on): ₹270
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Opp. Cooper Hospital, Near Juhu Circle, Juhu, Mumbai.
Landmark: A 10-minute drive from Juhu Beach.
How to Reach (6–7 Points)
- Nearest railway station: Vile Parle (10 mins by auto).
- From Bandra or Andheri, 15–20 min cab ride.
- Several BEST buses via Juhu Circle.
- Walkable from NMIMS & Mithibai College.
- Bike-friendly, but parking limited.
- Driving via Western Express Highway is convenient.
- 15 minutes from Mumbai Airport.
Best Time to Visit: Late evenings (10 pm – 1 am). Perfect post-beach meal.
Local Interview
Akash, an NMIMS student, says: “Amar is our adda. We come here after college almost daily. The bhaji has the perfect spice-butter balance.”
Achija – Ghatkopar
History
Achija started in 1971 as a small snack corner in Ghatkopar East. Over the years, it grew into one of the most popular hangouts in Central Mumbai, especially among Gujarati and Maharashtrian communities. Known for its consistently fresh and buttery Pav Bhaji, Achija has been a favourite for over five decades.
Ambience & Architecture
- A clean, semi-casual restaurant with modern interiors. The seating is comfortable, making it family-friendly. The open kitchen design lets you watch pavs being toasted on a massive tawa.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹225
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹280
- Jain Pav Bhaji: ₹240
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Opp. Garodia Nagar, Ghatkopar East, Mumbai
Landmark: Tilak Road, or Near Garodia International Centre & Ghatkopar Metro Station
How to Reach (6–7 Points)
- Nearest station: Ghatkopar (Central Railway).
- Metro Line 1 (Ghatkopar station) – 5-minute walk.
- 20 mins by cab from Powai.
- Several BEST buses from Chembur and Mulund.
- Walkable if exploring Ghatkopar East market.
- Bike accessible, ample street parking.
- Close to Eastern Express Highway.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings (7 pm – 10 pm), especially weekends with family crowd.
Local Interview
Mansi, a homemaker from Ghatkopar: “Achija has been our family’s go-to spot since the 90s. Their Jain Pav Bhaji is perfect when we have guests from Gujarat.”
Shiv Sagar – Chowpatty
History
Founded in 1982, Shiv Sagar is an iconic South Mumbai restaurant. While it serves an entire menu of Indian snacks and juices, its Pav Bhaji became the most sought-after dish, especially among beach-goers at Chowpatty.
Ambience & Architecture
- Classic South Mumbai family restaurant vibe with bright interiors. Located near Marine Drive, it’s popular with tourists.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹250
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹300
- Paneer Pav Bhaji: ₹325
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Opp. Girgaon Chowpatty, Near Wilson College, Mumbai
Landmark: Marine Drive promenade
How to Reach
- Nearest station: Charni Road (5 min walk).
- Metro under construction (Marine Lines station upcoming).
- 10 min cab ride from CST or Churchgate.
- Several buses to Chowpatty.
- Perfect pitstop after a walk on Marine Drive.
- Street parking available late at night.
- Cyclists often stop by after morning rides.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings after 7 pm (combine with sunset at Marine Drive ).
Local Interview
Ritika, a college student: “The taste of butter-laden pav after a walk at Chowpatty is pure Mumbai magic.”
Sadguru Pav Bhaji – Chembur
History
Started in 1969, Sadguru is Chembur’s pride. Over the decades, it has become famous for serving over 20 varieties of Pav Bhaji, including cheese, paneer, and Jain versions.
Ambience & Architecture
- Spacious interiors with family-style dining. A mix of retro and modern, retaining its 70s charm.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹260
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹320
- Special Paneer Pav Bhaji: ₹340
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Opp. Diamond Garden, Chembur East, Mumbai
Landmark: Near Chembur Gymkhana
How to Reach
- Nearest station: Chembur (Harbour Line).
- Chembur Metro Station (Line 1).
- 20 min cab ride from Sion/Dadar.
- Buses from Navi Mumbai stop here.
- Walkable from Chembur market.
- Close to Eastern Freeway.
- Easy bike access.
Best Time to Visit: Weekend dinners (8–10 pm) when families gather.
Local Interview
Suresh, a retired professor: “Sadguru has been our family tradition since 1975. Their cheese pav bhaji is unbeatable.”
Sukh Sagar – Chowpatty
History
One of the oldest Pav Bhaji hubs, founded in 1962. It started as a juice centre and later became synonymous with Pav Bhaji.
Ambience & Architecture
- Semi-modern interiors, air-conditioned, with a heritage charm. Perfect for families.
Pricing
- Classic Pav Bhaji: ₹220
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹260
- Jain Pav Bhaji: ₹250
Exact Location & Landmarks
- Near Girgaon Chowpatty, Mumbai
Landmark: Close to Wilson College & Charni Road
How to Reach
- Charni Road Station (5 min walk).
- Cab from CST/Churchgate.
- Several buses stop near Chowpatty.
- Combine with Girgaon Chowpatty beach stroll.
- Parking available late at night.
- Cyclists’ favourite snack stop.
- Upcoming metro access.
Best Time to Visit: Evenings (combine with a beach visit).
Local Interview
Anil, a businessman: “My father ate here in the 60s, I ate here in the 90s, and now my kids enjoy it. Sukh Sagar is family legacy.”
Bhagwati Pav Bhaji – Borivali
History
Started in the early 1990s, Bhagwati became Borivali’s late-night Pav Bhaji joint. It quickly became a favourite for locals craving midnight snacks.
Ambience
- Casual, family-friendly, with bright interiors and fast service.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹250
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹300
- Tawa Pulao: ₹260
Location & Landmarks
- Opp. Don Bosco School, Borivali West, Mumbai
Landmark: Near Shimpoli Road
How to Reach
- Borivali Station (10 mins auto).
- Cabs from Kandivali/Malad.
- Metro Line 7 (Borivali East).
- Buses from Dahisar & Andheri.
- Walkable from Borivali Market.
- Western Express Highway nearby.
- Bike accessible.
Best Time: Post 9 pm till midnight.
Local Interview
Ravi, a resident: “After a movie at Borivali, Bhagwati Pav Bhaji is our default plan
Bademiya – Colaba
History
Started in 1946 as a kebab stall, Bademiya added Pav Bhaji in the 70s to cater to vegetarians. Today, it’s equally known for both kebabs and Pav Bhaji.
Ambience
- Open-air, roadside setup near Colaba Causeway. Lively late-night crowd.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹250
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹320
Location
- Tulloch Road, Near Taj Mahal Palace Hotel, Colaba, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Nearest station: Churchgate.
- 10 min from CST.
- Buses to Colaba.
- Walkable from Gateway of India.
- Taxi hub nearby.
- Cycle-friendly for South Mumbai locals.
- Close to ferry services.
Best Time: Late nights (10 pm – 2 am).
Local Interview
Ali, a shopkeeper: “Tourists come here for kebabs, but locals know the Pav Bhaji is equally legendary.”
Malhar Pav Bhaji – Dadar
History
Since the 1980s, Malhar has been Dadar’s answer to Pav Bhaji cravings. It grew popular among Shivaji Park residents.
Ambience
- Modest eatery, family-friendly, busy evenings.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹240
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹290
Location
- Near Sena Bhavan, Dadar West, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Dadar Station (10 min walk).
- Easy access via Shivaji Park.
- Buses from Worli/Sion.
- Walkable from Plaza Cinema.
- Close to Western Express Highway.
- Bike access.
- Upcoming Metro Line.
Best Time: Evenings, especially before Shivaji Park stroll.
Interview
Sunil, a Dadar resident: “Malhar is not flashy, but it’s honest and delicious.”
Manohar Pav Bhaji – Girgaon
History
Since 1965, Manohar has been a small but famous joint in Girgaon.
Ambience
- Simple interiors, old-school charm.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹220
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹280
Location
- Opera House, Girgaon, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Charni Road Station.
- 5 mins from Opera House.
- Buses to Girgaon.
- Walkable from Marine Drive.
- Parking limited.
- Metro upcoming.
- Cycle-friendly.
Best Time: Early evenings.
Interview
Meena, senior citizen: “We’ve eaten here since our college days in 1970. It’s unchanged.”
Laxmi Narayan Pav Bhaji – Vile Parle
History
Since 1978, this Vile Parle joint has been a local legend.
Ambience
- Casual, open-air, buzzing with college students.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹230
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹280
Location
- Near Parleshwar Temple, Vile Parle East, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Vile Parle Station (10 min walk).
- From Andheri/Santacruz.
- Buses via Parleshwar Road.
- Walkable from Vile Parle Market.
- Easy via Western Express Highway.
- Bike friendly.
- 15 mins from Airport.
Best Time: Evenings after 7 pm.
Interview
Karan, local resident: “It’s the taste of my childhood. Still unbeatable.”
Cream Centre – Chowpatty
History
Established in 1958, Cream Centre is the oldest fine-dining Pav Bhaji spot in Mumbai.
Ambience
- Upscale interiors, perfect for families.
Pricing
- Classic Pav Bhaji: ₹300
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹350
Location
- Opp. Chowpatty Beach, Girgaon, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Charni Road Station.
- From CST/Churchgate.
- Buses to Chowpatty.
- Combine with Marine Drive stroll.
- Parking available.
- Morning cyclists often stop here.
- Metro access coming soon.
Best Time: Dinner with family.
Interview
Priya, homemaker: “Cream Centre is Pav Bhaji in style – the Rolls Royce of bhaji.”
Honest Pav Bhaji – Multiple Outlets
History
A Gujarati chain introduced to Mumbai in the 1990s. Known for spicy bhaji and wide menu.
Ambience
- Clean, modern franchise-style interiors.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹200
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹240
Locations
- Borivali, Andheri, Ghatkopar, and more.
How to Reach
- Nearest suburban stations depending on outlet.
- Metro access (Andheri/Ghatkopar).
- Taxi-friendly.
- All outlets bus-accessible.
- Parking varies.
- Bike-friendly.
- Walkable from local markets.
Best Time: Family dinners.
Interview
Nilesh, foodie: “Honest is spicy and fiery – not for the faint-hearted!”
Bachelorr’s – Marine Lines
History
Started in the 1940s as a juice corner, Bachelorr’s is iconic for its fruit shakes and Pav Bhaji.
Ambience
- Open-air, roadside, with cars parked for drive-in service.
Pricing
- Pav Bhaji: ₹250
- Cheese Pav Bhaji: ₹320
Location
- Near Marine Drive Flyover, Marine Lines, Mumbai
How to Reach
- Marine Lines Station.
- Cabs from CST/Churchgate.
- Bus stop at Marine Drive.
- Perfect post-Marine Drive walk.
- Drive-in service available.
- Cyclists stop here.
- Close to ferry terminals.
Best Time: Late night (10 pm – 1 am).
Interview
Shivani, corporate employee: “After office, Bachelorr’s Pav Bhaji with a strawberry shake is the best reward.”
FAQs – Pav Bhaji in Mumbai
Conclusion – Pav Bhaji: Mumbai’s Flavour, Mumbai’s Identity
Pav Bhaji isn’t just food — it’s Mumbai’s cultural signature. From the workers’ lunch in the 1850s to today’s Instagram-worthy plates, this dish has united generations. Each of the 15 spots we covered tells a story — of resilience, entrepreneurship, tradition, and flavour.
Whether you’re devouring the buttery indulgence at Sardar, enjoying the college adda vibe at Amar, or soaking in seaside charm at Sukh Sagar, you’re not just eating Pav Bhaji. You’re living a slice of Mumbai’s soul.
So the next time you’re in Mumbai, don’t just stop at one place — create your own Pav Bhaji trail. Because here, food isn’t just a meal. It’s an emotion. It’s Mumbai.
Note: Rates may vary; please check with reliable sources before visiting.
Sources
- Foodies of India (2025)
- Wanderlog
- Dishoom Journal
- The Better India
- Local interviews with Mumbaikars
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