The ins and outs of Indian dining

A quick guide to Mumbai cusine, and how to eat it
Noteworthy for: Mumbai cuisine is amongst the nation's most varied. Specialties include Parsi, Guajarati, Maharashtrian and Konkani foods. The thalis are exceptional in Mumbai, and exotic sweets are plentiful and delicious.

Word to the wise: Refrain from eating with your left hand, which is considered your "bathroom" hand.
Traditionally, cutlery doesn't feature on an Indian table setting. It may seem like a messy endeavour, but Indians feel eating should be a full sensory experience. Times have changed, but etiquette hasn't. Keep these dining tips in mind:

• Always wash your hands before eating and try to keep fingernails clipped, as long nails are considered unhygienic (expect for the little finger, reserved for nose-picking).

• Use breads like roti and naan to scoop up curries, taco-style.

• If you're dining at someone's house, wait for the host to sit before eating. You are expected to clean your plate, so don’t let your eyes get bigger than your stomach.

• Your fingers help to absorb the heat from chilli dishes, so ditch your fork if you're feeling the heat. Drinking milk will neutralises the burn; water can intensify it.

• While you're often as likely to get food poisoning at a restaurant, approach street food with caution. Don't forget to pack gastro medication.

• Never drink tap water, including ice. Carry bottled water, and purification tablets just in case.