Yashwant Place: Delhi’s ‘momo market’ still holding its charm

On a recent evening, Patriot visited Yashwant Place in Chanakyapuri, a spot better known as Delhi’s “momo market.” Tucked behind the diplomatic lanes, this ageing complex continues to draw crowds with its steaming dumplings, sizzling plates, and nostalgic atmosphere. From college students celebrating exam breaks to office-goers winding down, the market remains a lively reminder of how deeply momos have become part of Delhi’s food culture.

As we walked through the narrow corridors, the smell of garlic, chilli, and roasted spices filled the air. Each outlet claimed to serve the “best momos,” but after tasting and talking to people, five stood out for their unique offerings.

Chimney Sizzlers: Chilli garlic prawn momos

At Chimney Sizzlers, one of the oldest shops in the complex, we tried their chilli garlic prawn momos. Juicy, fiery, and packed with seafood flavour, they came sizzling on a plate. The owner said, “We wanted to give people a taste closer to the Northeast, bold and not afraid of spice.” Customers nodded in agreement as they tucked in, some even sweating through the chilli but refusing to stop.

Bhutanese Kitchen: Cheese and spinach momos

Vegetarians often complain of limited choices, but Bhutanese Kitchen offers a surprise with their cheese and spinach momos. Rich, creamy, and filling, they melt in the mouth. Sitting next to us, a college student shared, “Every exam season ends here for me. These momos are my reward.” The statement reflected the bond that regulars form with the place.

Momo Point: Tandoori chicken momos

Delhi loves fusion, and Momo Point has embraced it fully. Their tandoori chicken momos arrived with smoky edges, coated in masala, and served with mint chutney. A server proudly mentioned, “People first tasted tandoori momos here, then the trend spread across the city.” Biting into them felt like eating a kebab and a dumpling at once.

Yeti’s Corner: Buff momos

For those who prefer traditional flavours, Yeti’s Corner remains unshaken by food trends. Their buff momos, served with a fiery red chilli chutney, stay true to the Himalayan roots of the dish. The chutney was so hot it had us reaching for water but also reminded us why this corner has a loyal following.

Lha Kitchen: Chocolate momos

For dessert, Lha Kitchen serves chocolate momos, proving that creativity has no limits here. Steamed or fried, they burst with molten chocolate. A young couple enjoying them said, “This is our guilty pleasure. Momo or dessert? We don’t care, it’s both.” Watching the laughter around the table, it was clear that food here creates memories as much as it satisfies cravings.

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By the time we stepped out, neon lights had begun to glow, and more groups streamed in. Yashwant Place might look worn out on the outside, but its energy remains fresh. The momo market is not just about food; it is about people, stories, and the comfort of coming back to a place where flavours never disappoint.

For Delhi, momos are more than just a snack. And at Yashwant Place, they continue to be a celebration of the city’s diversity and appetite for reinvention.