One of the most exciting types of open-air markets in Mumbai feature piles of colorful, fragrant, and delicious fruits and vegetables. Most neighborhoods have their own little markets, and the larger markets sell everything from herbs and tropical fruits to meats and eggs.
In-season fruits and veggies will be the most flavorful and the cheapest, so ask what’s in season when you shop. In most cases it will be clear from the abundance of the item that is in season. Prices are not normally posted, and bargaining is acceptable at most places. Remember that foreigners are usually charged more than the local rate, but if you ask nicely you might get the price down. Double the local cost or not, you’ll probably find the fresh produce in India to be quite inexpensive compared to your home country.
Do take a few precautions with your fruit and veggies. The pesticides used in India are strong, so peel fruits and vegetables when possible. If you can’t peel it, soak it in bottled water and then use a sterilizing solution. Also check carefully for suspicious holes. Holes could indicate bugs, or they could be marks from some of the less honest vendors who inject fruits with tap water to increase the weight and price.
The rule of thumb with bargaining: If it’s sold outdoors, the price is negotiable. If it’s sold in an indoor market or grocery store, the prices are usually set.
Pali Market
Bandra’s Pali Market is a famous area with many little outdoor stalls selling produce. You’ll also find several “indoor” shops carrying imported foods, a wine and beer store, and a cold storage for meats. Almost all shops and outdoor stalls are cash only. The exception is Sante Delicatessen, which accepts credit and debit cards. Prices at Pali Market are a little higher than other outdoor markets, mainly because it is in a pricey neighborhood.
Lallu & Brothers
Shop 1, Pali Market, Pali Hill, 400050 Bandra (West)
Open: 8:00 am – 10:00 pm
Phone: 2640 9295
Nice selection of fresh vegetables and herbs. Prices are set. Shopping in the morning is best. Home delivery available.
Pali Mandai
Pali Mala Road, Pali Junction, Pali Hill, 400050 Bandra (West)
Open: 7:00 am – 9:00 pm
Fresh veggies, some imported. Chicken and fish.
Shiv Vegetable
Shop 4, 7, and 8, Pali Market, Pali Hill, 400050 Bandra (West)
Phone: 2642 7011
Fresh fruits and vegetables. Home delivery available.
Crawford Market
One of the biggest markets in Mumbai with a large variety of stalls selling produce. You can also buy wholesale produce here. It can be overwhelming due to the crowds and hawkers, so go with someone the first couple of times until you get the hang of it. Cash only and bargaining is acceptable.
Crawford Market
Main Hall, Dr D N Road, 400001 South Mumbai
Open: 8:00 am – 9:00 pm (Sundays most are closed)
Busy and interesting market with many stalls selling fruits, vegetables, nuts, dried fruits, fish, or poultry.
Trikaya Agriculture
Shop 370, Lane 1, Main Hall, 400001 South Mumbai
Open: Monday – Saturday 5:00 am – 2:00 pm
http://www.trikaya.net
Phone: 93 2338 0177
Fresh vegetables and herbs, including hard-to-find herbs.
Dadar Market
Dr D’Silva Road, Nr Kohinoor Cinema, 400014 Dadar
Open: Monday – Saturday 6:00 am – about Noon.
Huge selection of wholesale flowers and vegetables. Best to shop in the morning. Bargaining is acceptable. Produce available from 8:00 am – 1:00 pm. Cash only.
The Organic Farmer’s Market
Nilgiri Garden, Bandra Hindu Association, Linking Road, 400050 Bandra West.
Opposite The Coffee Bean & Tea Leaf
Phone: Ask for Megha +9198211 42700
Website: http://farmersmarket.co.in/
Mumbai’s first organic farmer’s market was launched in March 2010. It’s since become a popular place to pick up fresh produce directly from farmers. It takes place every Sunday, from 10:00 am – 5:00 pm, in Bandra West.
Note: Some indoor stores, such as Nature’s Basket, carry a range of organic spices and grains.
Green Way Organic Produce
Nikhil Villa 19, Second floor, Carmichael Road, 400036 Gowalia
Phone: 2352 0684 or 2496 8291
Open: Monday – Saturday, 9:30 am – 6:00 pm
Organically grown grains, fruits, and salads.
