A steaming plate of momos epitomises comfort food for the average Kathmandu denizen. Whether you’re out with friends, or simply looking for lunch, the first thing that comes to mind—even before you’ve had a chance to browse through the menu-—is oftentimes the humble and delicious momo.
Momos come in all shapes and varieties, and while experiments with fish, rajma and other not-so-conventional fillings are not for the unadventurous, the everyday plate of buff, chicken or pork momos is something that most Kathmanduites would wolf down in minutes. The Bakery Cafe has been giving the Capital’s momo-lovers ithe opportunity to unabashedly express their love for dumplings in a day dedicated to the near-obsession we exhibit for the dish. This year, the day falls on February 8.
One does not need to be a foodie or a culinary explorer to love momos, after all. And individuals who do not love or at least like momos are hard to find here. It is no surprise then that every year, hordes of momo-lovers head to Bhrikutimandap to celebrate the dish they all love. The Momo Mania event is more than an all-you-can-eat buffet spread; it is a great opportunity to sample flavours that we’re not accustomed to. While the cafe’s various outlets offer choices of ‘regular’ and ‘Tibetan-style’ momos in a range of regular meat and vegetable fillings every day, it is only at Momo Mania that one can sample dumplings filled with weird-interesting flavours like smoked chicken, pumpkin, saag and even fresh fruit.This year’s event will feature music by Mukti and Revival.
As usual, the momo-making and eating competitions are bound to be major attractions, and there will also be face-painting and game stalls. Another interesting dimension to the afternoon will be the performance by Circus Kathmandu. The performance group, which incorporates elements of traditional circus with more contemporary forms, always puts up shows that amaze and dazzle.