"This simple Maharashtrian vegetarian snack bar has expanded into a chain across west and north London — but the original in Hounslow is by far the best. Yes, the vada pav is very good, cushioned into lively red chilli, coconut, and garlic chutney-smeared, correctly trashy white bread rolls — but misal pav that’s the main draw. One of the most famous Maharashtrian dishes with countless regional variations, it’s rarely found elsewhere in London. Here, the sprouted bean stew comes in a vibrant red chilli rassa (gravy) fragrant with goda masala (black spice mix), topped with farsan (thick sev) and more of those bread rolls. Other classics include ‘coriander sticks’ or kothimbir vadi made from masses of fresh coriander and chickpea flour, sabudana vada (tapioca and potato patties), sabudana khichdi (similar, but in the form of a scramble), and poha (rice flakes with potatoes). To drink, there’s ‘cutting chai’ — Mumbai’s famous ‘half cup of tea’." - Sejal Sukhadwala
