Navigating Monsoon Street Food Alternatives: Insights from Industry Experts

As the monsoon season rolls in, the craving for street food often intensifies, but the traditional outdoor vendors may not always be the best choice due to hygiene concerns and unpredictable weather. For those seeking the vibrant flavors of street food without compromising on cleanliness and quality, two innovative ventures have emerged, each with its unique approach to replicating these beloved dishes in a more controlled environment.

Alok Aggarwal, co-founder, Indian Republic Canteen, shares insights into the challenges and solutions involved in bringing street food to a restaurant setting. “Serving authentic street food in a restaurant involves a meticulous approach to preserve the original flavor and quality while adhering to higher hygiene standards,” Aggarwal explains. Indian Republic Canteen (IRC) goes to great lengths to replicate street food authenticity by studying street vendors’ processes closely. This includes integrating their techniques with upgraded equipment and ingredients. For instance, IRC uses higher-quality oil and precise temperature control to maintain the distinctive taste of street food, such as their sizzling pakodas, vada pav, and Bombay masala sandwiches. Despite the diverse menu, IRC maintains a focus on preserving traditional flavors while ensuring a clean and hygienic environment.

In contrast, Aditi Bicholia, Co-Founder, Bombay Meri Jaan, emphasizes a different approach. “Our core principle is delivering hygienically prepared, authentic Mumbai street food directly to our customers’ doorsteps,” states Bicholia. Bombay Meri Jaan (BMJ) addresses the need for clean, high-quality street food by operating cloud kitchens with standardized processes to ensure freshness and quality. BMJ’s offerings, including kanda bhajiya, vada pav, and bhata vadas, are made fresh to order, with no pre-made or frozen food. Extensive research and collaboration with Mumbai experts help perfect their recipes, including the critical spice blends sourced from Gujarat.

Bicholia further highlights the importance of rigorous hygiene standards. BMJ’s cloud kitchens are subject to regular hygiene checks and audits, conducted multiple times a day. The commitment to these practices is reflected in the positive reception of their monsoon-season specials, which have become favorites among customers seeking both taste and cleanliness.

Both Indian Republic Canteen and Bombay Meri Jaan exemplify how modern adaptations can maintain the essence of street food while meeting contemporary hygiene standards. As the monsoon season continues, these establishments offer a reliable alternative for enjoying street food’s rich and diverse flavors in a safe and enjoyable manner.