From red to black and cashew-laced, here are five yummy finds for your next midnight binge, picked by Krutika Behrawala and Suprita Mitter
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Black and beautiful
The woody scent of garam masala being roasted with coconut on a giant iron tawa hits us as we step into Maruti Pav Bhaji in Vile Parle (W). The spices, cooked with mashed vegetables and coriander on a coal-stoked stove, add a blackish-brown hue and smoked flavour to the traditionally tomato-based dish, earning this version the moniker of Black Pav Bhaji (Rs80). Established in 1970, Maruti Pav Bhaji was initially set up as a stall at the corner of Bajaj Road. In the last few years, the stall has spawned similar joints in the same lane, launched by relatives of late Mr Maruti, the founder. The original is run by his grandson, Vaibhav Mhatre, who follows his recipe.
Time 7 pm to 12 am
At Maruti Pav Bhaji, Shop No 14, Angelina Apartment, Baji Prabhu Deshpande Road, Vile Parle (W).
Call 9833639180 (they accept party orders and deliver within a kilometre)
SoBo’s midnight haunt
Located near Priyadarshini Park, Santosh Sagar’s Pav Bhaji (Rs 150) enjoys unmatched popularity from the swish residents of Malabar Hill right down to Kemps Corner. The 30-year-old eatery is a favourite among partygoers craving a midnight snack, as well as Jain families. Here, you may just spot actor Darsheel Safary tucking into the finger-licking good bhaji, which features mildly spiced, mashed vegetables mixed with tangy tomatoes, served with a dollop of butter.
Time 9 am to 12 am
At Santosh Sagar, Matru Ashish, Shop No 6, Napean Sea Road.
Call 23631199
Dry fruits rule here
From delivering on Scootsy to whipping up fancy mocktails, DP’s (née Durga Parmeshwari), established in 1965, has kept up with the times. Skipping the many pav bhaji options that the menu lists, we pick DP’s Pav Bhaji (Rs165), which comes topped with cheese and dry fruits, including cashew, raisin and almond. An interesting mix, they give the bhaji a sweetish aftertaste, balancing out the cheese and spices.
Time 8 am to 11.30 pm
At DP's Fast Food, Lakhamsi Nappu Road, opposite Ruia College, Matunga Central.
Call 24145326
Juhu’s best kept secret
If you are a night owl, chances are that you are already familiar with this 20-year-old haunt. Drop in on a Saturday night and you will find crowds bingeing on dosa and milkshake. Order their bestseller, simply called Pav Bhaji (Rs 120), which comes with butter (we avoid the cheese) and a secret brown masala that makes it spicy yet delicious. The staff smoothly manages guests who occupy the tables as well as those who prefer the comfort of their cars.
Time 10 am to 2 am
At Amar Juice Centre, Gulmohar Road, Juhu.
Call 26243863
Painting Chembur red
Located in one of the busiest parts of Chembur, opposite the railway station, Sadguru, best known for its Pav Bhaji (Rs 152) and Masala Pav (Rs 162), is easily one of the most popular fast food joints in the suburb. While the original outlet opened in the 1970s, the restaurant now boasts four branches within Chembur. The bright red bhaji is not heavy on the spice and manages to offer a balanced, buttery flavour.
Time 9 am to 12 am
At Sadguru, Janata Market, near Chembur Station, Chembur.
Call 25210525
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