Ashok Vada Pav: Why You Should Head Here For Mumbai's Favourite Snack

Vada Pav is iconic to Mumbai, and Ashok Vada Pav at Dadar has time and again been declared as the best in the city by the locals and tourists. But is it really the best? Opinions differ. For some, it is a nostalgic favourite that defines their love for vada pav, but for others, it is just about the hype that doesn't do justice to its taste.

Let's sort through the details so that you can take a call.

Ashok Vada Pav is known for their traditional vada pav, where a spicy potato fritter lie between a soft pav and is eaten with numerous chutneys. Set aside the hype, Ashok truly does make a delicious snack, what with him having created another version to it too, fondly called the choora pav, where he mixes the choora with chutney and stuffs it in the pav along the vada.

There are many reasons why no other vada pav can match the standards this man has set. One of it is mainly because since the joint's establishment in 1977, the vada pav has consistently been tasting the same and all old-timers can vouch for this fact.

What sets it apart is not merely the taste of the patty (which is a perfect blend of potatoes, ginger-garlic, coriander-cumin powder, green chillies and salt dipped in thick besan paste before frying), but the chutney that makes this dish oh-so-irresistible. There's also his signature chutneys on the side, which is a combination of spicy green, tangy tamarind, and dry garlic chutney that offers a unique punch. 

Is this the best vada pav in town? Debatable, but definitely worth a visit to see if it sits well with your taste buds.

There’s no harm in paying a visit to this hugely popular vada pav stall, because if this is your go-to snack, then Ashok is your go-to guy. The consistency in taste, unique take on the regular vada pav, and cultural nostalgia, make it a favourite among many. However, the long queues, crowd, or even the flavour profile can be overrated for some.

Over the last couple of decades, the stall has successfully kept that flavour and quality. It is hot in demand among local, college students, and Bollywood celebrities alike.

- Be prepared to wait in the long line and fight your way through it for a bite of awesomeness.

- Being a simple street style stall, there's no seating. Grab your snack, find a spot on the sidewalk, and enjoy it hot.

- Be prepared for a kick of spice, or ask for the milder version. 

Price: INR 20 for a vada pav, INR 15 for choora pav and single vada.

Rating: 4.2/5

Timings: 11 AM to 9 PM

Must-try dishes: While the vada pav remains the chief attraction, regular patrons swear by the choora pav for its innovative take on texture and flavour.

Shivaji Park: Just a few blocks away from Ashok Vada Pav, it is much favoured by locals not only for walks in the morning but also for sports and informal gatherings.

Dadar Beach: Although a bit less popular than Juhu or Marine Drive, Dadar Beach offers a great view of the Bandra-Worli Sea Link and is perfect for unwinding or viewing a sunset.

Siddhivinayak Temple: One of Mumbai's most revered places of worship, this iconic temple dedicated to Lord Ganesha attracts devotees from across the world, including some from the Bollywood industry as well.

Bandra-Worli Sea Link View Point: Like the name suggests, it offers a stunning view of the iconic Bandra-worli sea link. It looks fascinating when it's illuminated during the night, especially at sunset.