Bombaywala - Paramus

This restaurant used to be fantastic. As someone from the region where this cuisine originates, I was thrilled to have a place that served authentic Bombay-style street food. However, the last four times we've ordered, the food has been disappointing. Despite giving specific instructions, the dishes labeled for kids are extremely spicy. Everything is overwhelmingly hot, with no consideration for spice levels or options. It feels like flavor has taken a backseat to heat, as the pav bhaji is so watered down yet scorching hot that it’s nearly unpalatable. The chaat is served pre-mixed, which makes it soggy and unappetizing by the time we get it home, rather than providing the chutneys separately. Given that I’m spending $15 on vada pav and $18 on chaat, I expect a quality meal—not something that is inedible.

I find this restaurant quite stingy with their takeout portions, which is surprising considering the prices on their menu. The Masala Cheese Grill Sandwich I ordered was bland and lacked flavor. There were no paper towels included with my order, and the Juhu Beach Kacchie Keri Masala Soda didn’t come with a straw, which is something most people don't keep at home (unlike containers). I'm really disappointed given the amount I paid.

It was way too spicy for me to handle. I couldn't even eat it. As a South Indian, I'm accustomed to a lot of spice, but this was on another level—I've got tears in my eyes and my nose is running! Also, the pav wasn't toasted.

All stale food. Taste is nothing close to authentic Bombay street food.

The portion size for the main course is quite small; they serve it in bowls of the same size.