Let’s be honest, when the skies turn grey, most of us instinctively reach for steaming bhutta, a warm, crisp vada pav or a plate of pakoda. But if your monsoon cravings could use a refresh, these regional monsoon finds offer a delicious alternative, with bagfuls of regional flavours.
Sindhi feast
The lesser-known Sindhi monsoon favourite, Sanna Bhajiya is the regional take on the classic kanda bhaji. Prepared with thinly sliced onions coated in a spiced gram flour batter, these fritters are a rain-day staple. The secret lies in frying them twice for an extra-crisp bite. It’s best enjoyed with a tangy green chutney.
At So Sindhi, Shop number 2, Shankar Dham Building, Lokhandwala Road, Andheri West.
Call 9321701427
Cost Rs 175
Bhajji binge
Sometimes less is more, and the Mangalorean snack Goli Bhajji proves exactly that. These deep-fried fermented dough fritters have a crisp exterior and pillowy centre. It is served with coconut chutney for the perfect pairing. Think of it as the answer to Mumbai’s Batata Vada.
At Ram Ashray, Jamnadas Mansion, Laxmi Narayan Lane, Matunga East.
Call 24102369
Cost R75 onwards
Samosa upgrade
Ditch the usual potato filling for a spicy jackfruit mixture tucked inside a crisp samosa. Crunchy on the outside and packed with a hearty, flavourful centre, the Kathal Samosa gives a familiar favourite a refreshing seasonal twist.
At Aamchee, Soni Building, Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Dadi Sheth Wadi, Gamdevi.
Call 9769337000
Cost Rs 250
Konkani comfort
The Shevla Bhaji is a nourishing monsoon delicacy from Maharashtra’s Konkan coast, made with tender dragon stalk yam (shevla), a seasonal vegetable known for its earthy flavour. It is cooked with fresh coconut, onions and aromatic spices. This wholesome curry remains a beloved rainy-day comfort food in Konkani homes.
At HotelMh09 Shetkari, Shop number 5 and 6, Jeevan Vikas Kendra Marg, Louis Wadi, Thane West.
Call 9869026771
Cost Rs 250
Leafy indulgence
Goa’s monsoon comfort, Goan Patrode, comes wrapped in a leaf, layering tender colocasia leaves with a fragrant paste of rice, urad dal, fresh coconut, red chillies, tamarind and jaggery before rolling, steaming and slicing them into pinwheels. Finished with a tadka of mustard seeds, curry leaves and grated coconut, it’s a rainy-day classic.
At Cafe du Patrao, ground floor, Om Sainath CHS, Mahim Bazar, Kapad Bazar, Mahim West.
Call 7045111469
Cost Rs 299 onwards
Taste of Bangla
This snack is proof that Bengalis can turn banana blossoms into irresistible comfort food. Mochar Chop combines spiced banana blossom (mocha), mashed potatoes and fragrant spices, coated in breadcrumbs and fried until golden. With its crisp exterior and soft centre, it’s best enjoyed with a steaming cup of chai.
At Oh! Calcutta (all branches)
Call 8976700343
Cost Rs 275
Dive into seafood treats
If you love seafood, think creamy Butter Garlic Crab Soup — a velvety broth that brings together sweet crab meat, rich butter and a generous garnish of coriander. Comforting, indulgent and perfect for a rainy day. We’d love to call it crab soup for the soul.
At Trishna, Kala Ghoda, Fort.
Call 9206260260
Cost Rs 460 onwards
Pic Courtesy/Chaitanya Assal Malvani
If you ask this writer what pairs best with bhakri, the answer would be Kolambi Bhujane, also known as Prawns Bhujane. This coastal favourite features prawns simmered in a rich, tangy and spicy Malvani gravy. If you’re not a bhakri fan, pair it with piping hot steamed rice or soft ghavne instead.
At Chaitanya Assal Malvani, Raobahadur SK Bole Road, Dadar West.
Call 9769909030
Cost Rs 690
Also check out
Give your monsoon kanda bhajiya binge an upgrade with variations of methi, cabbage, tomato, and also the Maggi bhajiya for the experimental palate.
At Bhajiyawala & Co. Mangal Aarambh Complex, Borivli West.
Call 9699469646
Cost Rs 95 onwards
