From Street Carts to Cafés: The Vegan Side of Indian Street Food in St. Louis

Indian street food has a strong voice. It smells rich and spicy It feels warm and familiar. It is fast food with a soul. People eat it standing up. People remember it forever. Those same flavors now live in St. Louis. They live in a vegan way. They live inside a place called Bombay Food Junkies.

This is not just a restaurant. It is a journey that began on the street and grew into a café that many people love.

The Journey: From Food Truck to Café

It all started small Back in 2013, Krupa and Sid Panchal took their love for Mumbai street food and turned it into St Louis’s first vegetarian Indian food truck The goal is to bring authentic street eats to a city craving something fresh and exciting

• Street cart vibes: The truck served chaat, pav bhaji, and snacks that made people pause mid-walk, grabbing bites that felt like mini-adventures.

• Community love: Locals quickly realised this was not just food. It was an experience. Foodies and casual eaters alike lined up, discovering vegan flavours that didn’t skimp on spice or heart

• Next step: Years of fan support turned the food truck dream into a full-fledged café Today, Bombay Food Junkies sits proudly in Creve Coeur, a place where street energy meets café comfort

It’s a story of evolution, persistence, and a little magic sprinkled over every dish.

A Menu That Talks

What makes a café truly stand out is the food, and here, every dish tells a story. From the street to the table, Bombay Food Junkies keeps flavours vibrant and meals completely plant-based.

Top Picks

• Vada Pav: The classic Mumbai sandwich, a crispy potato patty tucked in a soft bun, slathered in chutney. Comfort food on steroids.

• Chaat: Tangy, crunchy, messy in the best way. Perfect for anyone who loves a little chaos on a plate

• Vegan Butter Chik’n Bowl: Creamy, rich, slightly spicy, and utterly addictive Think of it as your favourite comfort food upgraded

• Sandwiches & Naan Wraps: Fresh, spiced, and perfect for lunch, dinner, or that mid-afternoon “I need happiness on a plate” moment.

Sweet Treats & Drinks

• Dairy-free milkshakes made with coconut-soy ice cream Indulgent without guilt

• These vegan baked goodies have the potential to convert anyone into a dessert enthusiast. These are truly delightful treats.

  
  

Why Locals Keep Coming Back

Bombay Food Junkies isn’t just about food It’s about feeling at home in a café that hums with life but also makes you feel like part of a bigger story

• Friendly vibe: Krupa and Sid greet every guest like they’ve been waiting all day for them

• Community focus: Events, festivals, and collaborations bring people together over the love of Indian cuisine

• Inclusive menu: Vegans, vegetarians, and curious eaters all find something to love. Even sceptics of plant-based food often leave planning their next visit.

Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Go for chaat first if you like a mix of sweet, sour, and spice.

• Pair your meal with a milkshake, because why not?

• Don’t be shy to ask for spice adjustments. The team loves to tweak flavours for comfort without losing authenticity.

• Take photos, but eat fast. The flavours wait for no one.

Conclusion

Bombay Food Junkies is proof that you can take something as humble as street food and make it plant-based, delicious, and exciting in a new city. It’s a café, yes, but the spirit of Mumbai streets lives in every dish. From vada pav to vegan butter chik’n bowls, the food speaks, the café welcomes, and St Louis is better for it. If you’re in town and craving something bold, flavourful, and vegan, skip the ordinary. Step into Bombay Food Junkies, where street carts meet café charm, and every bite feels like a tiny adventure.

FAQs

1. Is Bombay Food Junkies good for people new to vegan Indian street food in St. Louis?

Yes, it is a great starting point because the flavors feel familiar, comforting, and filling, even if you have never tried vegan Indian street food before.

2. Does Bombay Food Junkies use traditional Indian spices in its vegan dishes?

Yes, the kitchen uses classic Indian spice blends, which helps the food taste authentic while staying fully plant-based.

3. Can you find quick street-style meals at Bombay Food Junkies?

Yes, many items are inspired by Indian street food and are easy to eat, making them perfect for quick lunches or casual dinners.

4. Is Bombay Food Junkies suitable for families and small groups?

Yes, the café has a relaxed setup and a menu that works well for different tastes, including kids and first-time visitors.

5. What makes Bombay Food Junkies different from other vegan restaurants in St. Louis?

The focus on Indian street food flavors sets it apart, offering bold taste and comfort instead of typical vegan café dishes.

6. Can non-vegans enjoy the food at Bombay Food Junkies?

Yes, many non-vegans enjoy the food because it feels hearty and satisfying, not like a substitute or compromise.