Washington, D.C. is buzzing with a delicious new trend: Himalayan cuisine. Especially on H Street, where you can now find four spots offering mouth-watering dishes from Nepal, like momo dumplings and spicy choila.
Among the fresh additions are Daru and Tapori, both opened by chef Suresh Sundas. Just this past September, two more restaurants popped up near 13th and H streets—Tempo Shack DC and Nanglo—almost simultaneously.
Tempo Shack DC stands out as the only takeout window in the city serving water-buffalo dumplings. Dipesh Acharya, who hails from Kathmandu, started this venture after running a momo stall at a Texas farmers market. He aims to bring a taste of Himalayan street food to late-night diners in D.C.
The menu features delicious chow mein and grilled-meat sekuwa, but the real stars are the momos—hand-wrapped dumplings with fillings like chicken, veggies, and of course, water buffalo. You can choose how to enjoy them: steamed with a spicy peanut-tomato chutney, drizzled in a rich jhol sauce, or tossed in a chili stir-fry.
Just across the street is Nanglo, launched by Tikaram Paudel, a native of Dang, Nepal. Unlike his previous Indian restaurants, Nanglo focuses on authentic Nepalese dishes. Here, you’ll find big thali platters that let you sample various curries, lentils, and pickles. The Nanglo set for two is particularly popular, featuring both steamed and fried chili momos alongside grilled meats or paneer and mustang aloo, which are flavorful garlic-chili potatoes.
Acharya and Paudel knew each other if only a little through the small Nepalese American community. They were surprised to find themselves competitors as they opened their doors just a week apart. Even so, they support each other. Acharya supplies the water buffalo meat they both use, which strengthens their neighborhood ties.
According to a recent survey, interest in diverse cuisines is growing in America, with 75% of respondents eager to try new foods from different cultures. This reflects a broader trend where food not only fills our stomachs but also connects communities.
It’s exciting to see how D.C.’s H Street Corridor is transforming into a little slice of Nepal. With more Himalayan spots opening and fostering community connections, the neighborhood is sure to become a destination for food lovers.
