Baida Roti
Baida Roti / Anda Roti
Description
Mumbai is arguably the city most famous for Baida Roti. It's a quintessential part of the city's late-night street food scene, found everywhere from legendary stalls in Colaba to the bustling lanes of Mohammed Ali Road. Mumbai's Baida Roti is known for its robust flavors and crispy texture.
Dietary Information
Wheat
Eggs
Garlic
Vegetarian
Optional
This dish is not vegan
This dish contains gluten
Serving information
Serving style
Standard serving: Hot, cut into pieces, with green chutney and sliced raw onions on a plate (often steel at stalls).
Quick facts
Generally 6 PM to 2 AM or 3 AM in popular late-night food areas. Some might start earlier in the evening.
Safety Tips
What to Look For
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Cooked fresh to order on a hot griddle ('tawa').
Ensures the filling (especially egg and meat) is cooked thoroughly and the roti is served hot and crispy, minimizing bacterial risk.
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Busy stall with high turnover.
Suggests ingredients are fresh and the vendor follows good practices that attract customers.
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Clean preparation area and utensils.
Basic hygiene is crucial, especially when handling raw egg and meat mixtures.
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Vendor uses separate hands/gloves for handling money and food.
Reduces risk of cross-contamination.
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Roti is cooked until golden brown and slightly puffed.
Indicates it's likely cooked through. Avoid pale or soggy-looking rotis.
What to avoid
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Pre-cooked Baida Rotis sitting on the counter.
Increased risk of bacterial growth as the filling cools. Always insist on freshly cooked.
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Griddle ('tawa') is not sufficiently hot.
May result in undercooked filling and a greasy, soggy roti.
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Visible signs of poor hygiene (dirty cloths, unclean surfaces, flies).
Increases the risk of foodborne illness significantly.
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Fillings look discolored or smell off.
Indicates spoilage. Trust your senses.
Price information
Price range
Budget tips
- Street stalls around Mohammed Ali Road, Mahim Dargah, or stations offer lower prices (70-150 INR).
- Iconic spots like Bade Miya in Colaba are significantly more expensive (200-300 INR).
- Prices increase for mutton over chicken.
- Sharing one roti can be economical for a snack.
Value indicators
- Crispy exterior without being excessively oily.
- Well-spiced, generous filling.
- Cooked thoroughly on a hot tawa.
- Freshly made green chutney.
Where to Find This Dish
Colaba
Home to the famous (and pricier) Bade Miya stall, attracting tourists and locals late at night.
Bade Miya, Leopold Cafe, Gateway of India
Evening, Late Night (8 PM - 2 AM)
Mohammed Ali Road / Bhendi Bazaar
A hub for authentic Mughlai street food, especially during Ramadan, with numerous stalls offering excellent Baida Roti.
Minara Masjid, JJ Flyover
Evening, Late Night (especially 7 PM - 3 AM during Ramadan)
Mahim West
Area near Mahim Dargah is known for its Khau Galli offering various snacks including Baida Roti.
Mahim Dargah, Mahim Station
Evening, Late Night (7 PM - 1 AM)
Carter Road / Bandra West
Popular hangout spot with several street food vendors catering to the evening and late-night crowd.
Carter Road Promenade, Bandra Bandstand
Evening, Late Night (7 PM - 1 AM)
Vendor Tips
- Be prepared for crowds, especially at famous spots like Bade Miya or during Ramadan at Mohammed Ali Rd.
- Confirm the price before ordering, especially at tourist-heavy spots.
- Watch them make it – ensures freshness and proper cooking.
- Parking can be challenging in most popular locations; consider ride-sharing or public transport.
How to Order
Regional Variations
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Cheese Baida Roti
(Cheese Baida Roti)
A modern twist occasionally found, where cheese is added to the filling. Not traditional.
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Brain (Bheja) Baida Roti
(Bheja Baida Roti)
A less common but available option at some specialized stalls, using spiced goat brain instead of minced meat.
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Double Anda Baida Roti
(Double Anda Baida Roti)
Made with an extra egg for a richer filling.
Cultural context
History
Baida Roti's origins are often linked to Mughlai cuisine, adapted for the bustling street food culture of cities like Mumbai. It evolved as a hearty, portable, and flavorful meal or snack. Stalls in areas like Mohammed Ali Road in Mumbai have served it for generations, making it a culinary landmark, especially during Ramadan evenings and late nights.
Local significance
Baida Roti is a Mumbai street food icon, synonymous with late-night cravings ('midnight munchies'). It reflects the city's melting pot culture and its love for flavorful, hearty food available at all hours.
Eating customs
- Best eaten immediately while hot and crispy.
- Liberal use of the accompanying green chutney and onions is common.
- It's considered casual, on-the-go food.