Brisbane's Nepali food scene has grown steadily over the past few years, and momo lovers are finally being rewarded. Whether you want classic steamed buff momo, jhol momo swimming in spiced broth, or a quick fried momo fix, Brisbane now has dedicated spots delivering the real thing. Here's our guide to the best momo in Brisbane right now.
What makes a great momo?
A great momo starts with the pastry — thin, slightly chewy, and sealed tight enough to hold its juices without being doughy. The filling should be well-seasoned with fresh ginger, garlic, and aromatics. Equally important is the achar — the tomato-sesame dipping sauce served alongside. The best momo restaurants in Brisbane nail all three.
Top spots for momo in Brisbane
- →Spicy Momo House – Lutwyche: One of Brisbane's best-known Nepali restaurants. The buff momo here is a must-try — generous filling, well-sealed pastry, and served with a punchy tomato achar. Chicken momo and dal bhat thali are also popular. Located in Lutwyche, it draws a loyal crowd of Nepali and non-Nepali diners alike.
- →8848 Momo House – Fortitude Valley: Named after the height of Everest, 8848 Momo House is a dedicated momo restaurant in the heart of Fortitude Valley. The jhol momo — steamed dumplings in warm spiced broth — is the standout. Also serves buff momo and chicken momo. Great for a quick lunch or dinner before a night out.
- →Jhigu Bhoye Chhen – Coorparoo: A more relaxed, neighbourhood feel serving traditional Nepali food including momo and the Newari set meal. Coorparoo has become a quiet hub for the Brisbane Nepali community, and Jhigu Bhoye Chhen is at the heart of it. Ideal if you want momo alongside a broader Nepali meal.
- →Shrestha Kitchen – Spring Hill: Billed as Brisbane's first Nepalese fast-food restaurant, Shrestha Kitchen makes momo accessible and affordable. Momo plates run $12–$14, making it a great entry point for first-timers or a quick midweek meal. Spring Hill's central location also makes it convenient from the CBD.
Tip: Brisbane's Nepali restaurant scene is still growing. Call ahead to check opening hours — some spots have limited weekday hours or close early on Sunday.
Types of momo to try in Brisbane
If you're new to Nepali dumplings, here's a quick guide to the styles you'll find across Brisbane:
- →Steamed momo (the classic): Soft, delicate pastry with a juicy filling. Usually served with tomato achar. Start here if it's your first time.
- →Fried momo: Deep-fried to a golden crisp. Crunchy on the outside, flavourful inside. Great as a snack or starter.
- →Jhol momo: Steamed momos served in warm, tangy broth made with sesame, tomato, coriander and spices. A Kathmandu street food classic now available in Brisbane at 8848 Momo House.
- →Buff momo: Made with buffalo (buff) mince — the traditional Nepali filling. Richer and more flavourful than chicken. Don't be put off by the name — it's delicious.
- →Chilli momo: Fried momo tossed in a spicy sauce. Popular at most restaurants as an Indo-Nepali fusion dish.
How much do momos cost in Brisbane?
Momo in Brisbane is excellent value. A standard plate of steamed or fried momo (8–10 pieces) typically costs $12–$16. Jhol momo is slightly more at $15–$18. Most restaurants also offer set meals combining momo with dal bhat and sides for $18–$24. Shrestha Kitchen is the most affordable option in the city at $12–$14 per plate.
Are there vegetarian momo options in Brisbane?
Yes — all of Brisbane's Nepali restaurants offer vegetable momo alongside meat options. Typical veg fillings include cabbage, carrot, onion, ginger, and garlic. Some spots also offer paneer (cheese) momo. Veg momos are usually $2–$3 cheaper than meat versions.
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