A compact food counter positioned among the diverse international offerings at Newport Market has dedicated itself to a single culinary pursuit: authentic Nepalese dumplings.

MomoPlus was founded by husband and wife Gideon Gurung, 31, and Alexy Tumbapo, 22, who spent their formative years savouring these filled parcels in their native country and were taken aback to discover them unavailable in their adopted hometown.

The couple noticed that despite the market’s impressive selection of global cuisines, Nepalese fare was entirely missing from the lineup. They identified this as a gap in the local food scene worth addressing.

Opting against the challenges of running a comprehensive restaurant in their modest premises, they elected to channel their expertise entirely into the one dish they felt possessed worldwide recognition.

The pair’s opening day validated their approach.

The owners recalled the day being extremely busy, with complete sell-out occurring by five in the afternoon. They admitted they had not anticipated such a response.

Since launching, they describe the public reaction as steadily positive, with particular interest in an item seldom encountered elsewhere: water-buffalo momos.

Gideon noted that customers who spot buffalo on the menu respond with enthusiasm and intrigue, eager to try it. He reported that diners have been thoroughly enjoying the offering.

Alongside the buffalo variety, MomoPlus provides halal chicken momos alongside meat-free and vegan options. Their meat supplies originate from Masala Bazaar while fresh ingredients come from nearby retail outlets.

The dumplings undergo cooking via steaming, pan-frying, or simmering in flavourful sauces. Each portion is prepared to order, which can occasionally lead to waits of fifteen to twenty minutes during busy periods. Alexy expressed their commitment to providing the freshest possible product, emphasising immediate preparation and service.

The proprietors cite their chef as a significant advantage – he comes from a family background of dumpling makers stretching back several generations within Nepal. Gideon guaranteed that sampling a humble establishment’s momos in their home country would yield identical tastes to those served at their stall. He stressed the preparation methods are genuinely traditional, with the team committed to offering customers an authentic taste of local Nepalese fare.

At present, their limited space prevents them from adding noodle dishes and other items they aspire to eventually provide, although their business name already indicates future plans. Gideon clarified that MomoPlus represents momos alongside additional Nepalese specialities. He said their growth strategy includes introducing Newport residents to the entire range of Nepalese culinary traditions.