Frankie (Indian Wrap)
Frankie (फ्रेंकी / फ्रँकी)
Description
Mumbai is the birthplace of the Frankie, and it remains an integral part of the city's street food culture. You'll find countless Frankie stalls, from the original Tibb's outlets to numerous independent vendors, each potentially offering a slightly different take on this iconic wrap.
Dietary Information
Wheat
Eggs
Milk
Soy
Garlic
Peanuts
Sesame
Vegetarian
Optional
Vegan
Optional
This dish contains gluten
Serving information
Serving style
Served hot, tightly rolled in branded or plain paper. Often slightly greasy. Eaten standing or walking.
Quick facts
Generally 11 AM to 11 PM or later, especially in popular nightlife areas.
Safety Tips
What to Look For
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Filling cooked/reheated thoroughly upon ordering
Ensures meat, paneer, or vegetables are heated to a safe temperature, killing potential bacteria. Look for fillings sizzling on the hot plate.
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Clean griddle ('tawa') and preparation area
A clean cooking surface and counter reduce the risk of contamination. Avoid stalls with visible grime or old food scraps.
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High customer turnover
Busy stalls usually mean ingredients are fresher and replenished more often.
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Use of separate utensils/gloves for handling
Indicates better hygiene practices, especially when handling different fillings or money.
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Fresh looking onions and sauces
Onions should be crisp, not wilted. Sauces should look vibrant, not dull or separated.
What to avoid
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Fillings sitting out at room temperature for long periods
Pre-cooked fillings not kept hot are breeding grounds for bacteria, especially meat and paneer.
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Dirty griddle or utensils
Increases the risk of transferring contaminants to your food.
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Cross-contamination (e.g., handling raw meat then cooked food/onions without washing)
Significant risk factor for foodborne illness. Observe the vendor's workflow.
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Visible pests (flies, insects) around the stall
Indicates poor sanitation and potential contamination of food and surfaces.
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Stalls where vendors handle money and food interchangeably without washing hands/changing gloves
Money carries a lot of germs, which can be easily transferred to food.
Price information
Price range
Budget tips
- Stalls near colleges (e.g., Churchgate, Vile Parle) often offer competitive prices (50-120 INR).
- Branded outlets (Tibb's) might be slightly more expensive (80-180 INR).
- Prices in mall food courts or upscale areas can be higher (100-250 INR).
- Veg/Aloo Frankies are the most budget-friendly.
Value indicators
- The classic tangy taste from the vinegar-onion mixture.
- Soft, slightly chewy roti, often with a perfectly cooked egg layer.
- Authentic Frankie Masala sprinkle.
- Well-spiced, generous filling.
Where to Find This Dish
Churchgate / Fort
Numerous stalls catering to office workers and students near stations and Khau Gallis.
Churchgate Station, Flora Fountain, Fashion Street
Lunch (12 PM - 3 PM), Evening (5 PM - 9 PM)
Bandra West
Trendy area with popular Frankie joints on Linking Road and near Carter Road.
Linking Road, Carter Road Promenade, National College
Evening (6 PM - 12 AM), Late Night
Colaba Causeway
Street stalls popular with tourists and locals amidst the bustling market.
Leopold Cafe, Gateway of India (nearby)
Evening (6 PM - 11 PM), Late Night
Vile Parle (West)
Near colleges like NMIMS and Mithibai, known for good quality and variety.
NMIMS University, Mithibai College, Vile Parle Station
Lunch (12 PM - 3 PM), Evening (5 PM - 10 PM)
Vendor Tips
- Ask locals for recommendations on the best Frankie stall in a particular area.
- Tibb's Frankie outlets offer a standardized, original taste.
- Be specific about spice levels ('tikha chahiye' / 'medium' / 'bilkul tikha nahi').
- Check if they use Amul butter for frying the roti – considered a sign of quality by some.
How to Order
Regional Variations
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Mumbai Masala Blend
(Mumbai Masala Frankie)
The specific Frankie Masala blend can vary slightly between vendors, but the Mumbai original typically has a distinct tangy and savory profile.
-
Cheese Schezwan Frankie
(Cheese Schezwan Frankie)
A popular fusion variation combining cheese and spicy Schezwan sauce, widely available in Mumbai.
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Tawa Pulao Frankie
(Tawa Pulao Frankie)
A less common but interesting variation where the filling is Mumbai-style Tawa Pulao (spiced rice).
Cultural context
History
The Frankie was invented and popularized in Mumbai in the late 1960s by Amarjit Tibb of Tibb's Frankie. Inspired by Lebanese pita wraps, he adapted the concept for the Indian palate, creating a unique filling, sauce blend, and branding it 'Frankie'. It quickly became an iconic Mumbai street food, spreading across India.
Local significance
The Frankie is a Mumbai invention and a symbol of its fast-paced, flavorful street food scene. It's a go-to snack or quick meal for Mumbaikars from all walks of life.
Eating customs
- Often eaten while standing at the stall or walking.
- Peeling the paper down as you eat.