Yesterday, upma was quite ordinary. A South Indian semolina snack usually taken for granted at the Indian breakfast table. Today, it sits smugly at the center of the food spread at this season's television finale of America's "Top Chef Masters." Mumbai-born, New York-based chef Floyd Cardoz’s version -- wild mushroom upma polenta with kokum and coconut milk - won him the US$100,000 first prize.

There's upma for every budget in Mumbai, from humble to rip-off, narrowed down and noted down. Because you never know, Parisian poha, bok choy bhel, or some other humble Indian snack, could suddenly become the next big thing in the culinary world.

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Ramashray, Rs 14

At Rs 14, upma at Ramashray is probably the cheapest option in the city. Prepared the traditional way with semolina, onions, ginger and curry leaves and served with coconut chutney, regulars swear by it. If you want to skip the perennial long waiting lines here, rise early and make a 5:30 a.m. breakfast trip. It will be worth it, promise.

Bhandarkar Road, Matunga (E), +91 (0) 22 2414 2623

Café Madras, Rs 25

The upma at Café Madras commands almost double the price of the one at Ramashray. Stick to either the ordinary version at breakfast or try the tomato upma for dinner. Served with chutney and sambhar, this amazingly easy dish can be supplemented with the fiery rasam that the eatery is so famous for. End with filter coffee served in steel mugs.

38 - II, Circle House, Matunga Circle, Matunga; +91 (0) 22 2401 4419

Dakshinayan, Rs 60

In South Mumbai, Dakshinayan is your best bet for upma that is traditional in taste and light on the pocket. This you’ll get to scarf down in a cute canteen-like setting where bare light bulbs hang over tables and benches are too close for comfort. Naturally, eavesdropping is part of the meal plan.

183, Teen Batti Road, Walkeshwar, Malabar Hill, +91 (0) 22 2367 6701

Café Basilico, Rs 175

At Bandra's Café Basilico, you’ll find a scrumptious adaptation: couscous upma with peanuts and coriander minus the traditional chutney accompaniment. Served at both the Bandra and Colaba outlets, this nutritious dish is available for breakfast only.

St. John's Road, Pali Naka, Bandra (W), +91 (0) 22 6703 9999

Read about upma at Indigo Deli, Ziya, and Shamiana on CNNGo.com.