The Unofficial National Dish of Nepal: Nepali Momos and Where to Find Them in Kathmandu
Nepali momos, akin to Japanese gyoza or Italian gnocchi, have become an integral part of the culinary landscape in Nepal. With an average Nepali consuming at least 40 pieces of momos per week, it's no surprise that this delicious dumpling has been declared the unofficial national dish of the country. From hole-in-the-wall eateries to upscale restaurants, momos are ubiquitous in Nepal, available in various fillings, accompanied by different types of soups and sauces. A trip to Nepal would indeed be incomplete without savoring a plate of these delectable dumplings.
In this article, we will guide you through the top 9 momo places in Kathmandu, sparing you from the 'okay-ish' momos and leading you straight to the best ones in town.
1. Pork Momo Served with Clear Soup
Located in the heart of Thamel, this recently opened momo joint is gaining popularity for its freshly made pork momos served with a tasty clear soup. The modern vibes of this small place make it a must-visit for momo lovers.
2. Halal Momo
While strolling through the junction of Asan Tole, make sure to visit the town's best Halal momo place. The momos here are fat-free, moist, flavorful, and served with the owner's homemade signature tomato soup.
3. Shakya’s Momo
The Shakya couple who run this small family eatery make their momos from scratch. The freshly made buff momo served with their homemade cold soup is a delight to the palate.
4. Momo at Gabahal
This local place is known for its big, juicy, and succulent buff momos. Paired with peanut and tomato sauce, they are small balls of heaven in your mouth.
5. Bagmati Sweet House
This place is a haven for vegetarians! The momos here are filled with well-seasoned cottage cheese and are soft and juicy.
6. New Dish Restaurant
Tucked inside one of the buildings in New Road, this no-nonsense eatery serves the best pork momo in town.
7. Everest Momo
Everest momo has been one of the most popular momo places in Kathmandu for decades. Affordable and perfectly seasoned, these momos are perfect for those who have never had a Nepali momo before.
8. Ghangri Sui-Mai Momo
Known for their open momo, Ghangri Sui-Mai offers three different dips, sweet, tangy, and peanut-based, each one equally complementing the main dish.
9. Shandar Momo
This typical small momo shop serves delicious momos with different sauces. Mixing the two sauces results in an explosion of flavors in your mouth!
Remember, momo is a very delicate dish, so savor every spoonful of it. Since momos are made in batches, you have no control over the spices, but don't let that dissuade you. Bon Appetit!
