Momo House
Hillcroft spot offers Nepalese cuisine, specializing in momo dumplings
THE CONCEPT
A passion-project restaurant on Hillcroft from a group of Nepali friends who felt Houston lacked for authentic foods of their Himalayan homeland.
THE SPACE
A former Indian sweets shop, the young owners have turned this snug storefront space into a casual eatery with a takeaway counter. There’s also a pocket stage in the corner for live entertainment.
THE FOOD
As the restaurant’s name suggests, the house specialty is Nepalese momo: delicate, handmade dumplings filled with gently spiced ground chicken or vegetables. The dumplings can be had steamed or fried and are served with traditional sauces. There are six momo options on the menu. The chicken dumplings also figure in Chilly Momo, a stir-fry-like dish where the glossy chicken pockets are combined with vegetables and a spicy tomato chili sauce. That same preparation, where chunks of chicken substitute for momo, is called Chicken Chilly. There is a spicy-sauced vegetarian dish and two substantial goat options, as well as spiced, oven-roasted potatoes, too.
THE DRINKS
Water and soda. The owners are awaiting a liquor license; until then, it’s BYOB.
THE WORD
Nepal borders India and shares many of the same culinary ingredients — but its use of spices and cooking techniques produce a cuisine all its own. “Indian and Nepali are not the same,” said one of the owners, Sajani Prajapati. “We use some of the same ingredients, but there is a different flavor. The way they marinate and we marinate is different. We do not use cream at all.”
ONE MORE THING
Thali platters (small portions of a variety of dishes) are coming to the menu as the owners work to expand their offerings. Ask for a sample of beaten rice — crunchy, dried flat rice that resembles oatmeal but is eaten as an accompaniment to curry dishes.
THE DETAILS
6121 Hillcroft, 713-5051300. Open 11 a.m.-midnight Tuesdays-Thursdays and Sundays; 11 a.m.-1 a.m. Fridays and Saturdays.