Tucked along 57-16 Woodside Ave in Queens, Momochai is the kind of tiny, mom-and-pop spot where flavors do all the talking. Guests come for handmade Nepalese dumplings and leave raving about the comforting broth and bright, spicy chutneys. The space is compact with bar-style seating—ideal for a quick bite or solo visit—and most customers opt for takeout. Momochai’s calling card is the jhol momo (soup momo): silky dumplings swimming in a tangy, peanut-forward broth with a gentle heat from achar. There’s also vegetarian momo, chow mein, and snack-style favorites like choila, plus refreshing drinks ranging from bubble tea near me staples to classic mango lassi. For someone searching dumplings in Queens, Himalayan restaurant Woodside, or Nepalese food in Queens, this is a must-try. Food is made to order (plan for a short wait), the staff is warm, and prices are friendly—perfect for weeknight cravings, quick lunch runs, or a low-key date.
Services
- Dine-in (bar seating), takeout, and fast counter service for busy schedules.
- Made-to-order dumplings; careful cooking for perfect texture and doneness.
- Broad payment options, including popular digital wallets.
- Friendly guidance for first-timers (sauces, heat levels, and menu picks).
- Consistent quality for chicken momo, beef momo, and vegetarian momo.
- Refreshing tea shop selection: bubble tea, fruit teas, and creamy classics.
Menu
Momos
- Steamed or soup-style jhol momo with peanut-aroma broth and house achar.
- Chicken momo: juicy, well-seasoned filling with thin, delicate wrappers.
- Beef momo: deeply savory; tasty even without sauce.
- Vegetarian momo: light, fragrant, and surprisingly hearty.
Nepalese Favorites
- Choila: smoky, spice-kissed bites—bold flavor, great with tea.
- Vegetable chow mein: springy noodles with crisp veggies; a sleeper hit for noodle fans.
Drinks & Treats
- Bubble tea: passion fruit, classic milk tea, and seasonal specials.
- Mango lassi: chilled, creamy, and not overly sweet—perfect with heat.
- Rotating beverages and add-ons to pair with spicy dishes.
Pros
- Authentic Nepalese flavors crafted with care; dumplings made fresh to order.
- Signature jhol momo that stands out city-wide for balance and depth.
- Compact, efficient space—great for a quick stop or takeaway.
- Kind, patient staff who explain sauces and spice levels.
- Value-driven pricing; easy to build a full meal with a drink.
- Strong local search appeal for Nepalese food in Queens, Himalayan dumplings, and bubble tea Woodside.
Reviews
- “Lives nearby and visits often; calls the classic momos ‘great’ and says the jhol achar pairs perfectly. Notes limited seating but ideal for takeout.”
- “Says the momos are cooked to perfection with thin skins and an amazing peanut broth; hot sauce available. ‘Give this place a chance—you won’t be disappointed.’”
- “Names it a favorite for jhol momo; loves the soup + spicy achar combo. Not usually a chow mein fan, but praises the vegetable version. ‘Choila is bomb.’”
- “First-timer who tried chicken momo—fresh, delicious, and served warm with a cool soup; highlights quick service and a welcoming host. ‘Would definitely eat here again.’”
- “Praises flavorful beef momos ‘even without sauce’ and recommends grabbing a chilled mango lassi; plans to return for more.”
For anyone craving dumplings in Queens or scouting a cozy Himalayan restaurant in Woodside, Momochai blends authenticity, value, and hospitality. The star is the jhol momo, but the noodle dishes, choila, and tea lineup make it easy to build a crave-worthy meal. Arrive hungry—and leave with a new neighborhood favorite.