Jackson Heights is a humble neighborhood in Queens that epitomizes the soul of New York City.
It’s home to a unique blend of cultural microcosms from India, Tibet, Nepal, Latin America, and Central America. You won’t see finance bros in suits sternly chattering on the phone or pods of stylish Gen Z-ers giggling with their oat matcha lattes. You will see working class people hustling hard, taking advantage of the opportunities their parents wanted them to have.
You’ll also find some legendary eats, including a plethora of steaming, juicy, delicious momos.
What’s a momo? I’d love to tell you!
A momo a small dumpling with a filling that you’ll find in Tibet and Nepal. They are usually made with aida and atta flour and are traditionally eaten as street food. Momos are quite similar to dim sum, but they feature the flavors and spices of the Himalayas.
Where can you find the best momos in Jackson Heights? Well… I’d love to tell you!
(Check out my first Jackson Heights momo crawl HERE!)
5. Lhasa Fast Food
Lhasa Fast Food is a sit down, no-frills joint boasting heinous florescent lighting and stellar momos. You can get all types of classic Tibetan dishes, but my eyes were on the steamed chicken momos.
My taste buds were delighted by flavors. Well.. first they were burnt due to my impatience… then delighted. The dough was stretchy and thin, and the filling was flavorful. I appreciated the addition of onions and chives, which added a little somethin’ somethin’.
Plus, one order of 8 is a reasonable $8.
4. Phayul 2
Phayul 2 is hidden up a flight of stairs on 37th road. Don’t be deterred by the sketchiness, because the momos are top notch. Each serving is served fresh, and the quality of the dough and filling deserves a *chef’s kiss*.
3. Amdo Kitchen
Amdo Kitchen is a humble food truck that dishes up some of the best momos in Jackson Heights. It’s the brainchild of Thubten Amchok, a former Tibetan monk who came to the US in 1995.
You can score beef, vegetable, or chicken momos, and each order is 8 for $7 HOLY FRUGAL!
Beef is THE momo to get. I, however, did no prior research and opted for the chicken. (Whoops.)
The filling was juicy and flavorful. The dough, however, was on the thicker, chewier side. I’m no momo aficionado, but I was under the impression momo dough was meant to be more delicate. I’m sure someone on the internet will correct me in that state (if it’s YOU please be nice.) Nevertheless, the momos were delicious.
Pro Tip: If you can handle the heat, go liberal in both the red and white sauces. They are stellar!
2. Om Wok
Om Wok has an alarmingly large menu featuring Indian, Chinese, Thai, AND Tibetan dishes. Usually I’m skeptical when I see such variety… how can everything be good?! I’m not sure if everything is good… but I am sure the momos are totally spectacular.
The dough is beautifully pleated and not too thick. But the real “wow factor” comes from the mega juicy, outrageously flavorful filling. Each bite leads to a waterfall of flavor that’ll have you slurping for joy. Be sure to add in some chili and soy sauce to elevate the experience.
Om Wok was the winner of the 2022 Jackson Heights momo crawl. And while I was beyond thrilled with my momo experience… I think the best momos in Jackson heights are at…..
1. Bhanchha Ghar
Bhanchha Ghar has been serving up traditional Nepali cuisine since 2015. It’s the two time winner of the annual Jackson Heights momo crawl, and the goat Jhol momo is one of the best things I’ve had in NYC.
“Jhol” means liquid, and jhol momos are basically like a momo soup. The goat filling is beautifully gamy and slightly sweet with just enough onion and plenty of spices. The broth has deep, complex layers of spices with turmeric, ginger, garlic, onions, and flavors my palate has never experienced before. The gaminess from the goat compliments the rich, spiciness of the soup, making these the best momos in Jackson Heights (in my humble opinion…)
These 5 momo spots in Jackson Heights will leave you full and satisfied without breaking the bank.
Cheers!
