Ramesh Dahal from Khotang has established a Nepalese restaurant named Momo Master in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, creating a distinct identity for Nepalese momos in America. Dahal has popularized Nepalese momos in US cities, particularly through his restaurant near Chapel Hill, a city hosting the University of North Carolina (UNC) with 34,000 students. Founded in 1789, UNC is America’s oldest public university. Adjacent to the campus stands the well-known Nepalese restaurant, Momo Master. Despite a relatively small Nepalese community, Momo Master consistently attracts large crowds in Chapel Hill. “Sometimes you even have to stand in line to eat here,” says Dr. Mukesh Adhikari, who works at UNC Chapel Hill. “It’s truly a proud experience to sit among Americans and enjoy momos.”
Most Nepalese living in the US run restaurants under Indian names selling Indian cuisine, as Indian food is very popular and such branding easily attracts customers. Many Americans don’t even recognize Nepalese cuisine. However, five years ago, Ramesh Dahal of Khotang’s Makpa community courageously opened a restaurant branded under Nepalese momos in the US. “I run this Nepalese restaurant to promote Nepalese food here,” Dahal explains. “The early days were challenging, but now this restaurant has given me a unique identity.” His Momo Master Himalayan Bistro has become a representative place for Nepalese flavors and a major attraction for the local community. Consequently, many affectionately call him “Mamta Momo Master.”
Americans in Chapel Hill, accustomed to burgers, tacos, pizza, and hot dogs, thoroughly enjoy the taste of momos. Dahal says, “Money is important, but the greatest achievement is introducing Americans to Nepalese flavors.” Momo Master stands among the popular dining spots in Chapel Hill. In recent years, it has become a key center for showcasing Nepalese momos. “Having momos become a common dish here is a matter of pride for us Nepalese,” says Dr. Chandra Giri, a professor and environmentalist at Duke University. “Seeing the crowds here makes me proud, and all credit goes to Ramesh Dahal.”
