Nepali momo
मम Momo · Kathmandu, Nepal
Steamed dumplings from Nepal and Tibet, whose name may come from northwest China's 'momo'.
Know before you go
- Don't pass or take food with your left hand
- don't order or talk about beef fillings in front of Hindus
This article is Not yet verified. Please check official announcements for prices, opening hours and dates.
Culture
Culture & customs
Background
Momo are steamed dumplings from Nepal and Tibet, also popular in Bangladesh, Bhutan and India. In Nepali they are 'mama' or 'momo', in Newari 'mamacha', in Tibetan 'mog mog'. The Tibetan word may be borrowed from 'momo', the northwest Chinese dialect word for steamed buns and bread. Dumplings were already popular in China in the Northern and Southern dynasties (420–589), and dumplings dating from 499 to 640 have been excavated at the Astana cemetery in Xinjiang.
Local customs
- Dip them in tomato-and-sesame chilli sauce
- they also come fried or in soup
Religion & beliefs
- Most Nepali Hindus don't eat beef
- buffalo, chicken and vegetable fillings are common.
Etiquette
Etiquette & taboos
Rules that apply here
Nepal: you must hire a guide to trek in national parks
- Get a trekking permit and TIMS card
- Hire a local guide or porter
- Trekking alone in national parks and conservation areas
Breaking the rules can mean a fine or expulsion from the protected area; above 3,000 m there are risks from weather, avalanches and altitude sickness all year.
Verified Oct 19, 2026Source: GOV.UK: Nepal travel advice
Don’t DON'T
- Don't pass or take food with your left hand
- don't order or talk about beef fillings in front of Hindus
Locals appreciate DO
People in Kathmandu appreciate visitors who squeeze into street-side eateries with everyone else.
Plan your visit
Practical info
Travel tips
- Small shops in Thamel and the old city are everywhere
- a plate is usually ten. Prices and opening hours are set by each shop
- popular old places often have queues, so go outside peak mealtimes.
Sources & verification notes
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