How a Humble Dumpling Became a Global Sensation
London’s momo scene offers diverse flavors, from traditional to Michelin-worthy. This beloved Nepalese dumpling, originating in Tibet, has become a global sensation, uniting cultures through its delicious taste and universal appeal.
London’s food scene is a vibrant mix of global flavours and traditions. Among them, momo—a beloved Nepalese dumpling—has made quite a splash. My quest to find the best momo in London has taken me from Harrow to Hounslow, exploring various places that showcase this tasty dish in all its forms. Here’s a tour through some of the top momo spots in the city, with a nod to how momo, originally from Tibet, has become a global sensation.
Kathmandu Zone: The King of Momo Varieties
Nestled in the heart of London, Kathmandu Zone stands out for its extensive momo menu. This restaurant offers a range of options, including the Chilli Momo (C Momo), known for its perfect blend of spices and flavours. The Sadeko Momo, marinated to perfection, and the Dameko Momo, grilled to add a smoky depth, are also highlights. For those who prefer a different texture, the fried momo and soup momo offer delightful alternatives. With such a diverse selection, Kathmandu Zone is a must-visit for momo lovers.
Nepali Momo, Harrow St. Ann Shopping Center: The Fast Food Favourite
Located at Harrow St. Ann Shopping Center, Nepali Momo offers a genuine fast-food experience. Their open kitchen lets diners see their freshly made momo being prepared, ensuring both transparency and quality. The consistency of their products and the excellent value for money make it a reliable choice for anyone craving a quick, satisfying meal.
Bhatti, South Harrow: Tradition on a Plate
In South Harrow, Bhatti serves a standard but dependable momo. What sets them apart is their side soup, served in a traditional leaf plate. This presentation adds an authentic touch, making each meal feel like a true street food experience from Nepal.
Great Nepalese, Central London: A Historical Gem
Great Nepalese is not just a restaurant; it’s a piece of culinary history. Serving momo for over four decades, it holds a special place in London’s Nepalese dining scene. It was here that I had the honor of meeting the late Foreign Secretary Robin Cook, who famously declared Chicken Tikka Masala as the national dish of Great Britain. On that memorable day, Cook enjoyed a Duck Tikka Masala, showing that Great Nepalese is more than just a momo spot—it’s a landmark in London’s food culture.
Maya D, Woolwich: Consistent Quality
Maya D in Woolwich offers a reliable and high-quality momo experience. Their consistency in delivering flavorful momo makes it a go-to spot for those seeking a dependable and satisfying meal.
Kailash, Woolwich: Simply the Best
Kailash in Woolwich is renowned for serving some of the best momo in town. The dumplings are juicy, well-seasoned, and evoke a comforting taste of home. It’s a place where each bite of momo brings back fond memories of Kathmandu’s street food scene.
Yak Yeti Yak: The Best Chutney in Town
Yak Yeti Yak is celebrated not only for its momo but also for its exceptional chutney. Prepared using a traditional stone-ground method, the chutney perfectly complements their momo, providing a homestyle flavor that resonates with diners.
Namaste Gurkha, Hays: The Ultimate Momo Destination
Namaste Gurkha in Hays is a top contender for the best momo in London, particularly for their Water Buffalo Momo and Vegetable Momo. The flavors are rich and authentic, making it a must-visit for anyone seeking a true taste of Nepalese cuisine.
Gurkha Kitchen, Plumstead: Nostalgic Flavors
At Gurkha Kitchen in Plumstead, the momo evoke nostalgia with their flavors reminiscent of Kathmandu Valley’s bhatti pasal. This restaurant brings a slice of Kathmandu to London, offering a nostalgic culinary journey for those longing for authentic Nepali tastes.
Newa Che, Maya Pub, Harrow: Good Momo, Needs a Nepali Twist
Newa Che at Maya Pub in Harrow serves momo with generous stuffing, but their chutney could use a more authentic Nepali twist to enhance the overall experience. Despite this, the momo themselves are well-prepared and enjoyable.
Panas Gurkha, Blackheath: Michelin-Worthy Presentation
Panas Gurkha in Blackheath is known for its Michelin-standard presentation. The momo are elegantly plated and tastefully executed, although they are only available as starters. This place offers a refined dining experience for those who appreciate both aesthetics and flavor.
Gurkha Lounge, Peterborough: Fine Dining Momo
Gurkha Lounge in Peterborough also offers a Michelin-star level of presentation and taste. Their momo, complemented by excellent chutney, provide a high-end dining experience that stands out in the city’s momo scene.
Namaste Gurkha, Feltham: Reliable Consistency
Namaste Gurkha in Feltham is known for consistently serving high-quality momo. The reliability and quality of their dishes make it a dependable choice for any momo enthusiast.
Pasa, Hounslow: The Best Jhol Momo
For those who crave Jhol Momo, Pasa in Hounslow is the go-to spot. Their jhol momo, featuring hot dumplings served with a cold, flavorful soup, is a unique and satisfying take on this traditional dish.
Benares, Mayfair: Michelin-Star Momo
Benares in Mayfair is a Michelin-starred gem that features momo on its bar menu, thanks to Chef Sameer Taneja and his team. The presence of momo in such a prestigious setting highlights its growing prominence in London’s high-end dining scene.
Tipan Tapan, Tottenham Court Road: Street Food Excellence
Tipan Tapan, located on Tottenham Court Road, is renowned for its authentic Nepalese street food experience. As part of a restaurant chain group, it delivers excellent momo in a lively arcade hall environment, capturing the essence of Nepalese street food in London.
The Global Rise of Momo
Originally hailing from Tibet, momo has become a global sensation, making its mark on the international culinary scene. In Nepal, momo has long been a national favorite, and its popularity is now spreading like wildfire. This once humble dumpling is now celebrated worldwide, rapidly overtaking other fast food options in countries like India, Australia, America, and across Europe.
In Australia and America, momo is gaining momentum, with new eateries springing up and existing ones expanding their menus to include this popular dish. The adaptability of momo, combined with its rich flavors and variety, has made it a beloved choice for food lovers around the globe.
Recently, I had the unique opportunity to enjoy momo in one of the coldest areas of Nepal, right on the edge of Gokyo Lake. At the Thanka Inn and The World’s Highest Sherpa Art Gallery, I experienced the quintessentially Nepalese hot soup thukpa momo. Situated at an altitude of 4,790 meters in the Everest region of Khumjung, Gokyo offers an unparalleled backdrop for savoring this delicious dish. The hot, hearty momo in a cold environment was a perfect fusion of warmth and comfort, embodying the essence of Nepalese hospitality.
About the Writer: Binod Baral
Binod Baral, renowned as the “Momo King” in the Nepali diaspora and affectionately known as “Momo ko Mama” (Mom’s brother), holds a special place in the culinary world. His expertise and passion for momo have earned him titles such as Momo Shiromani, meaning “Superb Jewel” or “Jewel Worn on the Head,” reflecting his esteemed status in the realm of dumplings.
Binod Baral has recently made waves with his scholarly contributions, publishing a comprehensive journal about momo in the Tribhuvan University Journal. His insights into momo have also been featured in numerous national and international newspapers and magazines. As a visiting faculty member at Oxford College of Engineering and Management, he teaches BBA and BHM courses, sharing his extensive knowledge and experience with the next generation of culinary professionals.
His deep understanding of momo, combined with his global culinary experience, positions him as a leading authority on this delightful dumpling. Whether through his writing, teaching, or culinary ventures, Binod Baral continues to champion momo, celebrating its rich heritage and its exciting journey across the world.
In a Nutshell
London’s momo scene is a rich and varied one, from the traditional leaf plate presentations at Bhatti to Michelin-worthy dishes at Panas Gurkha. Whether you’re after an authentic taste of Kathmandu at Gurkha Kitchen, a quick bite at Nepali Momo, or the best chutney at Yak Yeti Yak, there’s a momo spot for everyone. As momo continues to gain popularity globally, it remains a cherished culinary delight, uniting people through its delicious flavours and universal appeal.
From its Tibetan roots to its reigning status as the king of dumplings, momo’s journey shows how good food can bridge cultures and bring people together. As it spreads across continents, it’s clear that momo is more than just a dish—it’s a global sensation, winning hearts and taste buds wherever it goes.
