Momo Crave Review: Are Fusion Momos in Woodside, Queens Worth Trying?

Quick Summary
If you love dumplings and want to try something different, Momo Crave in Woodside, Queens is well worth checking out. This small, casual halal spot specializes in Himalayan momos with creative fusion twists. I sampled three of their popular varieties—Chaat Momo, Thai Soup Momo, and Tandoori Momo—alongside an order of Shrimp Chow Mein. The Chaat Momo and Thai Soup Momo were absolute standouts, while the noodles were fairly ordinary. Come strictly for the momos!

  • Location: Woodside, Queens (Near Jackson Heights)
  • Cuisine: Himalayan / Momo Fusion
  • Halal: Yes (Beef, Chicken & Veggie Options)
  • Overall Score: 9.2/10 ★★★★★★★★★★
  • Food: 9.4/10 | Value: 9.5/10 | Atmosphere: 8.9/10
  • My Favorites: Thai Soup Momo & Chaat Momo
  • Least Favorite: Shrimp Chow Mein
  • Best For: Friends, students, casual dates, and solo dining

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Watch My Experience:


Why I Tried Momo Crave

Momo Crave storefront exterior with sign reading Fusion Himalayan Dumplings on 69th St in Woodside Queens
The storefront of Momo Crave in Woodside, Queens.

I've eaten momos at several Himalayan restaurants across Queens, but Momo Crave caught my attention because they do things a little differently. Instead of serving only regular steamed or fried momos, they specialize in unique fusion versions that incorporate flavors from Indian and Thai cuisines.

Momo Crave printed photo menu board displaying various fusion momo options like Chaat Momo, Thai Soup Momo, and Tandoori Momo
The photo menu board showcasing the unique fusion momo choices.

I decided to stop by and order three completely different varieties—Chaat Momo, Thai Soup Momo, and Tandoori Momo—to see how their creative approach holds up against traditional preparation styles.

Atmosphere & Counter Service

Momo Crave is small, cozy, and very casual. You won't find a high-end dining room or traditional ornate Himalayan decor here. You simply walk in, place your order at the front counter, find an open seat, and wait for your food to arrive.

Warmly lit interior dining area at Momo Crave filled with patrons sitting at tables and booth seating
Casual, warm interior seating area inside Momo Crave.

During my visit, the shop was busy with local students and younger customers, which makes sense given the affordable prices and relaxed vibe. The service is fast and basic; since you order at the counter, there isn't much table service, but the food comes out hot and quick.

How to Get to Momo Crave

Momo Crave is located at 38-07 69th St, Woodside, NY 11377. If you are taking the NYC subway, take the train to the Jackson Heights–Roosevelt Avenue / 74 St–Broadway station complex. From there, it is an easy 8-minute walk toward Woodside, placing you right in the heart of one of Queens' best food neighborhoods.

Chaat Momo

The first dish I tried was the Chaat Momo. This version takes traditional Himalayan dumplings and gives them a savory Indian street food twist. The momos come smothered in creamy yogurt and topped with diced onions, tomatoes, sweet tamarind chutney, and savory sauces—reminiscent of the bold chutney and yogurt flavor profiles you find in a classic Samosa Chaat at Jackson Diner.

Chaat Momo at Momo Crave topped with yogurt, sweet tamarind chutney, diced red onions, tomatoes, and crispy sev
A full plate of Chaat Momo loaded with toppings.

You get a wonderful contrast of flavors in every bite—sweet, tangy, cool, and savory—all layered over a warm, juicy dumpling. The cool yogurt worked remarkably well with the savory meat filling. It ended up being one of my top two favorite dishes of the entire meal.

Close up of a creamy Chaat Momo on a spoon showing savory sauce, diced red onion, cilantro, and crispy sev topping at Momo Crave
Up close with a spoonful of Chaat Momo.

Thai Soup Momo

Next came my other top favorite: the Thai Soup Momo. The steamed dumplings arrive submerged in a piping-hot, aromatic broth that is spicy, tangy, and deeply flavorful.

Steamed momos submerged in rich golden Thai coconut soup broth garnished with fresh cilantro at Momo Crave
A bowl of Thai Soup Momos in rich broth.

This dish is absolute comfort food, especially during cold New York winters. Choosing between the Chaat Momo and the Thai Soup Momo was tough—the Chaat Momo delivers bold, sweet, and tangy street-food energy, while the Thai Soup Momo offers a warm, savory, and spicy kick. If you're visiting with a friend, I highly recommend ordering both to share.

Close up of a juicy steamed momo dumpling in golden broth on a spoon at Momo Crave
Juicy interior of the dumpling in golden soup broth.

Tandoori Momo

The third dish was the Tandoori Momo. Instead of being steamed in broth or covered in yogurt, these dumplings are marinated in tandoori spices, grilled to get a subtle smoky exterior, and served on skewers with a fresh green chutney on the side.

Charred Tandoori Momo skewers served on paper plate with side of green mint chutney at Momo Crave Woodside
Tandoori Momo skewers served hot off the grill.

While I enjoyed the grilled charred flavor and chutney, it ranked slightly behind the Thai Soup and Chaat variations for me. Still, it highlights what makes Momo Crave fun: you can order the same dumpling filling (beef, chicken, or vegetable) prepared in completely different culinary styles.

Shrimp Chow Mein

Lastly, I ordered the Shrimp Chow Mein. Honestly, it was pretty ordinary. While there was nothing inherently wrong with the noodles or shrimp, it lacked the bold flair and flavor of the momos. Next time I visit, I’ll skip the noodle dishes entirely and save room to try another momo variation instead.

Plate of stir-fried chow mein noodles with shrimp, bell peppers, and cabbage at Momo Crave
An order of Shrimp Chow Mein at Momo Crave.

Exploring More Himalayan Food in Queens

Queens is arguably the best destination in the country for Himalayan cuisine, with dozens of Nepali and Tibetan spots scattered across Jackson Heights and Woodside. If you want a full, traditional meal after trying the fusion styles here, check out my review of Himalayan Yak in Jackson Heights, where I tried their traditional Nepali Thali.

Pricing & Halal Details

Momo Crave is very affordable by New York City standards. You can easily enjoy two fusion momo orders and leave completely full without spending much. Additionally, Momo Crave is 100% Halal, making it a great option for Muslim diners exploring the neighborhood. They accept both cash and credit cards.

Final Verdict & Who Should Visit

Momo Crave is a fantastic casual spot that I would gladly return to for the momos alone. The Chaat Momo and Thai Soup Momo are absolute must-try dishes. It is an ideal restaurant for students, solo diners, casual dates, or a group of friends looking to order a spread of dumplings and share.

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I order at Momo Crave?
The Thai Soup Momo and Chaat Momo are the best items on the menu. If you are visiting with someone else, get both and share them!

Is Momo Crave Halal?
Yes, Momo Crave serves halal food and offers beef, chicken, and vegetable options.

What are momos?
Momos are traditional dumplings popular in Himalayan regions such as Nepal, Tibet, and Bhutan. They can be stuffed with meat or vegetables and served steamed, fried, grilled, or in soups and sauces.

Is Momo Crave expensive?
No, Momo Crave is very affordable and budget-friendly for NYC.


Restaurant Summary Table

RestaurantMomo Crave
Address38-07 69th St, Woodside, NY 11377
CuisineHimalayan / Fusion Momos
HalalYes
Nearest SubwayJackson Heights–Roosevelt Ave / 74 St–Broadway
Top Recommended DishesThai Soup Momo, Chaat Momo
Overall Score9.2 out of 10 Stars (★★★★★★★★★★)

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