From the streets of Vile Parle to the cafés of Bandra and the khau-galis near Church Gate — Mumbai is a paradise for students who want great food without blowing their budgets. Here’s your Starving Scholars: Mumbai Edition — tasty, filling, and easy on the pocket.
1. Amar Juice Centre, Vile Parle
A legendary student hotspot, Amar Juice Centre is always buzzing — day or night. Known across Mumbai for its buttery pav bhaji, crispy dosas, and giant grilled sandwiches, this place is heaven for late-night cravings. Their Tawa Pulao and Cheese Pav Bhaji are absolute must-tries, loaded with butter and full of flavour. Perfect for students from NMIMS and Mithibai, most dishes here fall in the ₹100–₹180 range.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/d5VJ9xzKsP8NnRnC9


2. Bademiya, Colaba
One of Mumbai’s most iconic late-night eateries, Bademiya serves some of the juiciest kebabs and rolls you’ll ever taste. The Chicken Seekh Roll and Mutton Boti Kebab are favourites — smoky, spicy, and full of flavour. The vibe is energetic, and students flock here after Marine Drive or Gateway walks. Prices start around ₹150–₹250, making it totally worth the hype.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/pc6a3a8YtS9PhE4w7


3. Kyani & Co., Marine Lines
One of Mumbai’s oldest Irani cafés, Kyani & Co. is a favourite among Xavier’s, KC, and HR students. The historic charm, wooden interiors, and big windows create the perfect nostalgic vibe. Their Bun Maska, Irani Chai, and Chicken Puff are absolute classics. For a filling meal, the Keema Pav and Mutton Cutlets are amazing and very budget-friendly. Prices range from ₹40–₹160.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/NcHRnXNp8CvwJRuN9


4. Jai Jawan, Bandra (Linking Road)
A cult favourite for non-veg lovers, Jai Jawan is famous for its spicy, perfectly grilled tandoori dishes. The Punjabi Tandoori Chicken and Amritsari Fish Fry are extremely popular among students from National College and MMK. Portions are generous, and prices stay around ₹150–₹250. Perfect for a takeaway after shopping at Linking Road.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xbah1GW1jtUPAWEr6


5. Mamledar Misal, Thane
If you like spicy food, Mamledar Misal is a rite of passage. Their Misal Pav is fiery, flavorful, and unbelievably cheap. Students from nearby colleges visit for the challenge — some cry, some sweat, some fail the spice test, but everyone loves it. They even have different spice levels now. Budget ₹60–₹120 for a full meal.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/9ujE7FpRaFr2A1zj7


6. Candies, Bandra
One of the most student-friendly cafés in Mumbai, Candies offers budget meals, colourful seating areas, and huge portions. Their Chicken Sandwich, Cold Coffee, Lasagna, and Chicken Puffs are student favourites. The best part? The place looks premium but is very affordable — perfect for college hangouts, study sessions, and post-class snacks.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/a2d1DtCWBivk5rFK9


7. Badshah Cold Drink House, Crawford Market
Known for its iconic faloodas and kulfis, Badshah is a refreshing stop after long walks in Fort or shopping at Crawford Market. Their Royal Falooda and Dry Fruit Milkshake are absolute classics. Students also love the chaat and pav bhaji served here. All items are ₹80–₹160, making it a sweet budget stop.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/xPUxpbJkjdAMnKJb8


8. Gokul, Colaba
Hidden behind the Taj hotel, Gokul is the ultimate student drinking-and-snacking spot (especially famous among south Mumbai college students). While it’s known for budget drinks, the food is surprisingly good too. Their Tandoori Chicken, Paneer Chilli, and snacks like French Fries and Veg Crispy are perfect for groups. Prices are extremely student-friendly.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/tXALQ6MoXSzZuFmC6


9. Shree Thaker Bhojanalay, Kalbadevi
If you want a proper, unlimited Gujarati thali feast on a student budget, Shree Thaker Bhojanalay is unmatched. Their thali includes:
– 4–6 sabzis
– hot phulkas
– farsan
– dal/kadhi
– rice
– chutneys
– dessert
Students love visiting in groups because the food is unlimited and absolutely homely. Prices are around ₹350–₹450 — slightly higher, but worth it for the unlimited feast.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/RgDhrc9VXn7yYwWc9


10. Prithvi Café, Juhu
A favourite among theatre lovers and students, Prithvi Café offers beautiful open-air seating under trees and fairy lights. Their Irish Coffee, Keema Pav, and Hummus & Pita are absolute must-tries. Despite the premium vibe, prices are very student-friendly — around ₹100–₹250 per dish. It’s perfect for college dates, group hangouts, or solo reading sessions.
📍 Map: https://maps.app.goo.gl/J6yfbPEwhqccNWPS6



this blog really helped me find the best and affordable places in mumbai. great work Starving scholars…
the places mentioned are genuinely very nice. it is a helpful blog.