If you’re a fan of dumplings, then you’ve probably heard of momos. These delicious little parcels, originally from Tibet and Nepal, have made their way into Melbourne’s food scene—and locals can’t get enough of them. Juicy, packed with flavour, and best served piping hot with a spicy dipping sauce, momos have become a go-to comfort food for many Melburnians.
Whether you’re new to momos or already obsessed, you’re in luck—Melbourne is brimming with hidden gems and eateries serving some of the best momos around. From late-night snack spots to authentic Nepalese restaurants, here’s where you can find the tastiest momos in the city.
What Makes a Great Momo?
Before we jump into the best places, let’s quickly talk about what makes a good momo stand out.
- The Dough should be thin but sturdy enough to hold the filling without falling apart.
- The Filling needs to be juicy and flavourful—commonly made with chicken, lamb, beef, pork, or veg options like cabbage and paneer.
- The Sauce, often a tomato and chilli-based achar, should have the perfect amount of heat and tang.
- The Cooking Style matters too. You’ve got steamed momos (classic), fried momos (crisp and crunchy), jhol momos (served in a spicy soup), and even open momos that look like little dumpling cups.
Everyone has their favourite combo, and luckily, Melbourne delivers on all fronts.
Where to Find the Best Momos in Melbourne?
1. Footscray – The Heart of Himalayan Food
If you’re serious about finding authentic Nepalese or Tibetan momos, Footscray is your first stop. This multicultural suburb in Melbourne’s west is packed with eateries serving everything from thukpa (noodle soup) to chow mein—and of course, momos.
Head to one of the many Nepalese restaurants or even little takeaway joints along Barkly Street or near Footscray Market. The vibe is casual, the food is top-notch, and the momos? Properly spiced, steamed to perfection, and often served with that fiery house-made achar you’ll keep dreaming about.
Pro tip: Try the buff momos (buffalo meat) if you want the real Nepali experience.
2. CBD – Hidden Gems in the City
You might not think of the Melbourne CBD as a momo hub, but there are plenty of spots tucked away in laneways and upstairs eateries that’ll surprise you.
In places like Elizabeth Street and around Swanston Street, you’ll find casual diners offering great lunch deals on momos, often under $15. Whether you’re grabbing a quick bite during a work break or out with mates on a Friday night, these city joints serve both classic steamed momos and adventurous versions like chilli momos—fried and tossed in a sweet-and-spicy sauce. One popular spot worth checking out is Old Durbar in Melbourne CBD, known for its authentic flavours and vibrant vibe.
Fun fact: Some venues even offer vegan momos made with mushrooms, tofu, and greens.
3. Dandenong – The South-East’s Best-Kept Secret
Dandenong’s food scene is as diverse as it gets—and it’s a momo paradise. With a large Nepalese and Bhutanese community, you’ll find family-owned restaurants here that take their momo game seriously.
Most places in Dandenong serve both dine-in and takeaway, and some even offer home-style momos made fresh daily. If you’re in the area, don’t miss out on jhol momos—served swimming in a rich, spicy, garlicky broth that’ll clear your sinuses and warm your soul.
4. Brunswick & Coburg – Cool Vibes, Great Dumplings
Melbourne’s inner north is known for its trendy cafes and alternative food options, and yes, that includes creative takes on momos too.
In Brunswick and Coburg, you’ll find quirky eateries doing modern spins on the classic dish. Think momo tacos, momo burgers, and even fusion momos stuffed with cheese, jalapeños, or curry fillings. It might sound wild, but somehow, it works!
Of course, there are still plenty of traditional-style momos on offer, especially at community-run restaurants with roots in the Himalayas.
5. Online & Frozen Momos – For the Home Cook
Can’t get out to grab fresh momos? No stress. Melbourne has several Nepalese grocery stores and specialty food suppliers that sell frozen momos you can steam or fry at home. Some even come with a little tub of dipping sauce.
You’ll find them in suburbs like Clayton, Werribee, and Craigieburn—or order online and get them delivered straight to your door. Perfect for dinner parties, lazy Sundays, or just a cheeky snack when you can’t be bothered cooking from scratch.
What to Drink with Momos?
Pair your momos with a chilled glass of beer, a tangy mango lassi, or even a warm cup of masala chai. If you’re eating spicy momos, especially the chilli or jhol versions, you’ll want something to cool your mouth down in between bites.
Sauce It Up: The Power of the Achar
Let’s take a moment to appreciate the hero of any momo dish—the dipping sauce, or achar. It’s usually made with tomatoes, garlic, sesame seeds, red chillies, and a splash of lemon or vinegar. Some places get really creative, adding peanuts or even fermented soybean paste for that umami punch.
If you’re eating momos without achar, you’re only getting half the experience. The good news? Many Nepalese restaurants in Melbourne will sell you a jar to take home. Trust us—it goes great with everything, not just momos.
A Simple Recipe to Try at Home
Feel like trying your hand at making momos? Here’s a basic steamed chicken momo recipe:
Ingredients (Filling):
- 500g chicken mince
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb-size ginger, grated
- 1 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tsp garam masala
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh coriander (optional)
Dough:
- 2 cups plain flour
- Water (just enough to form a soft dough)
- A pinch of salt
Instructions:
- Mix flour, water, and salt to form a soft, elastic dough. Let it rest for 30 minutes.
- In a bowl, mix all filling ingredients.
- Roll the dough thin and cut into circles.
- Add a spoonful of filling to each, then fold and seal.
- Steam for 10–12 minutes until cooked through.
Serve with your favourite dipping sauce—and enjoy!
Final Thoughts
Melbourne’s love affair with momos shows no signs of slowing down. Whether you’re craving a classic steamed chicken momo, a fiery chilli momo, or even a vegan-friendly twist, there’s something out there for everyone.
Next time you’re out exploring the city—or chilling at home—track down some momos and get ready for a flavour bomb that’s humble, hearty, and hits just right every time.
