As far as cuisines go, Mumbai does a lot of things well. We’ve got some fantastic burgers, pizzas galore, waffle heaven, and we know exactly where to get the best vada pavs too. However, in this vast expanse of culinary offerings, there’s one thing we can all agree on, and that’s momos. Somehow, and we’re still not quite sure what it is about them but they always hit the spot!
Considering all the controversy about momos of late, we realised now would probably be the best time to talk about some of our favourites in Mumbai. From pan-fried to steamed, from tender pork to juicy mushroom, from authentic Chinese flavours to tangy modern twists—we went through quite the trail to get to this short list.
I. Pork Momos at Kepchaki Momos
Where: Sea Spray, Opposite City Bank ATM, Carter Road, Bandra West
This tiny haven for gorgeous, flavoured meat wrapped in delicate, soft steamed momos. The Pork Momos are to die for, with succulent meat so tasty, the filling could be a dish by itself. Their Mushroom and Cheese Momos are good enough to rival their famous Pork Momos.
Cost: At this little place, you’re paying for taste at about INR 120 for a plate.
II. Momo Cha at Moktu
Where: 2nd Floor, Food Court, Infiniti Mall, Link Road, Andheri Lokhandwala
Moktu serves delicious, hot and fresh momos inspired by different countries. Their Tibetan-inspired momos are a treat for anyone adventurous with food. Still, the real treasure at Moktu is the traditional Nepali chicken momos - Momo Cha. These finely prepared, perfectly-shaped, fresh, flavoursome momos are complemented by the tangy tamarind chutney and hot mustard sauce. Tender chicken cooked to such perfection that you will savour every little bite, and want more!
Cost: Not bad for two, at INR 250.
III. Chicken Momos at Dev Momo Hut
Where: In Front of Nature’s Basket , Near Flora Hotel, Dr RG Thadani Marg, Worli Sea Face, Worli
Dev’s Momo Cart makes this random footpath the most visited one in Worli! His expertly cooked Chicken Momos served hot and fresh with a tangy tomato sauce are the perfect evening snack. Simple, but delicious, the Chicken Momos filling is irresistibly tasty. Mouth-watering momos that truly hit perfection when tried with his classic signature Garlic Sauce. Trust us, one bite will make you want to drag Dev’s cart to the footpath outside your home!
Cost: All broke college students flock to Worli at INR 150.
IV. Pan-Fried Pork Momos at New Sernyaa
Where: Adarsh Nagar, Andheri West › 185, Oshiwara Link Road, Adarsh Nagar, Andheri West.
Easily the most authentic Tibetan food you’re likely to find, this little Oshiwara restaurant may just be the city’s best (and now, worst) kept secret. Its owners are of Tibetan origin themselves, though raised as Sikkimese in Calcutta, and it’s clear that their methodology when it comes to making these sumptuous pork-mince filled momos that they’ve been passing down the tricks of the trade for many generations now. We’re particularly soft for the pan-fried kind, but if you’re either a little health conscious or looking for the ultimate, real thing, then go for the regular steamed momos.
Cost: Tad bit expensive, but worth it at INR 700.
V. Mushroom and Cheese Momos at Kepchaki
Fear not, vegetarians you are not forgotten. We know Kepchaki is already up here, but a repeat is almost necessary given how good these momos are. One bite into this momo and it is cheese galore - with just the right amount of mushroom to make you feel like you’ve had a dose of veggies for the day. These beauties are definitely up there on our list, and are a weekly staple at the HG head quarters - we have your backs. \
Where: Sea Spray, Opposite City Bank ATM, Carter Road, Bandra West
Cost: Easy-cheesy at INR 110 per plate