#Eat614: In search of the best dumplings in central Ohio

Heather Hotaling

Handmade Tibetan-style dumplings and “Witchy Woman” by The Eagles may not be the most obvious pairing.

Yet sitting at the counter at Momo Ghar, watching these dumplings deftly tucked and folded a mere foot away from your seat; listening to the cooks sing along to the radio as they sling out spicy, steaming plates to hungry customers… somehow, it all feels right. Found inside Saraga International Grocery, owner Phuntso Lama will greet you with a warm smile and help you navigate the tiny space to find a seat.

With barely more than 10 spots between the counter seats and two tables, it’s not uncommon to find Momo Ghar at capacity—but Lama has the system down. She’ll invite you to place your order and return in 15 minutes, and she’ll have an empty seat and hot food waiting for you.

The momo is Nepal’s take on the dumpling—typically round in shape with fillings of meat and vegetables, and most commonly served with a tomato-based dipping sauce called jhol achar. Momo Ghar’s most popular dish, jhol momo (eight for $8.95) features Kathmandu-style momos filled with a savory mix of chicken, cilantro, and spices swimming in a shallow pool of the customary fragrant and spicy tomato broth topped with fresh cilantro

American palates will find the pork kothey (eight for $8.50) a bit more familiar, as its appearance and flavor resemble the potstickers found in most Chinese-American restaurants, but with a distinct twist.

For a completely different type of dumpling experience, head for Jiu Thai Asian Cafe on Bethel Road.

For more on the dumpling front, click here.

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