Since then, Vada Pav has become a cultural phenomenon
India’s beloved Vada Pav has been named one of the world’s best sandwiches by global food guide TasteAtlas, landing at number 28 on a list dominated by Middle Eastern and Southeast Asian favourites.
The chart placed Lebanon’s Shawarma in first place.
Vietnam made a strong showing, securing two of the top five spots.
While India did not make it into the top ten, Vada Pav’s inclusion reaffirms its enduring legacy as one of the subcontinent’s most iconic street foods.
Originating in Mumbai in the 1960s, the Vada Pav was created by street vendor Ashok Vaidya. His cart was stationed outside the bustling Dadar railway station, where he served thousands of hungry commuters daily.
There are two popular origin stories behind the creation of the snack.
One version suggests Vaidya and a neighbouring omelette pav seller decided to experiment one day. Vaidya borrowed a pav from the neighbouring stall, placed a hot batata vada in the centre, added a spread of garlic chutney, and handed it to a few customers. It was an instant hit.
The other version claims that the omelette pav vendor ran out of eggs during a particularly busy morning. Vaidya, eager to keep the rush-hour crowd satisfied, stepped in with a quick fix, sliding a spicy batata vada inside a pav.
That unexpected pairing was so well-received, it became a staple snack across the city.
Since then, Vada Pav has become a cultural phenomenon – sold everywhere from roadside stalls to high-end eateries.
It’s usually served with a fiery red chutney made from peanuts, coconut, garlic, and green chillies.
While Vada Pav claimed the 28th spot, it was Shawarma, the Lebanese meat-filled pitta wrap, that topped the list.
Shawarma is also widely popular in India, often sold at roadside carts and fast food joints.
Vietnam’s Banh Mi came in second. A crisp baguette filled with meats, pickled vegetables and fresh herbs, Banh Mi has gained global acclaim for its balance of textures and flavours.
In third was Tombik Doner from Turkey, a fluffy round bread filled with seasoned meat.
TasteAtlas, known for spotlighting regional cuisines and dishes, curates its rankings based on user ratings and expert reviews.
Its lists often spark food debates across the globe, and this year’s sandwich line-up is no exception.
Vada Pav’s inclusion highlights the snack’s global appeal and its deep connection to Indian street food culture.
For many Indians, whether at a roadside stall or a café, biting into a Vada Pav remains more than a quick meal. It’s a taste of home.
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