The first thing that many first time travelers to Mumbai are concerned about is if there will be food they like.
I will make some assumptions that if you are going to Mumbai that you are open to trying some new things, even if you are not a natural adventurer. I think even the most particular eaters will find food to enjoy. You should be able to find choices that are not spicy if you just ask for some help from the people who are serving the food. The people I have met in Mumbai are very focused on providing an enjoyable experience, and will help you find things that are less spicy if that is your preference.
I am no expert in Indian cuisine, but I will share some of the things I have tried and enjoyed my first trip to Mumbai.
Samosa – Fried pastry type item, usually stuffed with spiced potatoes, onions and such. It is spiced for flavor, but not spicy-hot at all. Try it with side of chutney!
Samosa is in front right of this picture!
Dosa – Think of this as a very thin pancake like item, often stuffed with a filling of vegetables, but can be just the thin folded item with no stuffing. Try with coconut chutney if available for a nice treat, that is easy for Westerners to enjoy! Pictured with a mint chutney, coconut chutney, and a tomato based as well!
“Indian coffee” – Give yourself a break from Starbucks and black coffee and give this a whirl. Its rich, it has some milk in it, and a light froth sometimes at the top. If you really like coffee, I think you will like this!
Chole – This is made with chick-peas/garbanzo beans and has some spice in it, but not hot like some dishes. The chole I had was more spiced with cumin than it was cayenne, in case that helps at all.
Many dishes are served with rice, so the trick to remember is this: If you get yourself in too deep with something that is too spicy, just mix in more rice, or ask for naan to go with it to cut the heat!
