Almost every Kensington resident passes Moesser Square daily, whether on their way to work or running errands. We frequently make a visit to procure sushi-grade sashimi from Yaoya San, an exceptional Japanese goods store, and, without fail, we notice the long line for ice cream at Baskin Robbins, no matter the season.
Zomsa, established in 2019, is a proud family-owned Himalayan and Nepalese kitchen. During our visit on a Sunday evening, the restaurant was bustling with large families celebrating the end of summer, and we had the opportunity to sample their finest offerings.
Establishments specializing in Himalayan or Nepalese cuisine often find themselves in competition with Indian restaurants due to shared elements like korma and masalas. However, there are distinct differences, such as the use of leaner meats, reduced reliance on cooking fats, fewer carbs, and the absence of cream. We are fortunate here in the Bay Area to have places like Moesser Square where this type of cuisine can thrive.
Momos are steamed Nepalese dumplings, known for their slightly thicker skins compared to wontons or potstickers. Typically served with tomato-based chutneys or spicy chili sauces, they come in both meat-based and vegetarian options. Zomsa's Buff Jhol Momo stands out, featuring rich and earthy buffalo meat in a cashew and peanut sauce that highlights its sweet and nutty notes.
Wai Wai Chatpatey is a popular Nepali snack and a fun addition to the Zomsa menu. Comprised of crushed dried noodles tossed with red onion, green chili, cilantro, tomato, soybean, and lime juice, we appreciate this dish because Zomsa doesn't hold back on the spice, making it a guilty pleasure for those who enjoy a fiery kick, especially when paired with any of the cold beers they have on tap!
In my opinion, Zomsa's star dish is unquestionably their Thakali Thali. In Hindi, the term 'thali' translates to 'the plate,' and traditionally, it refers to a large metal tray with smaller metal bowls that offer a balanced meal. While Thali is a common feature in Indian restaurants, the Thakali Thali is a staple in Nepali cuisine. In this case, a takeout experience simply doesn't do it justice, so I strongly recommend taking a seat and indulging in this culinary delight in-house.
The Thakali Thali at Zomsa offers a choice of chicken or vegetarian options, but my personal favorite is the goat. Cooked in a rich sauce, the meat is lean and carries a nice gamey flavor. It is accompanied by a crisp wafer made from dried lentils known as papad, which adds a satisfying crunch without making you feel overly full. The meal is beautifully balanced with a lentil soup that warms your palate and sautéed mustard leaves that impart a pleasant bitterness. To round off the experience, there's pickled daikon that refreshes taste buds before going another round.
Before you depart, try the Kearney Street exit from the parking lot and savor a moment to admire the frequently overlooked yet enchanting mural. This masterpiece whimsically celebrates the diversity of El Cerrito and this unassuming business park. Crafted by Nigel Sussman (@nigelsussman), the talented illustrator renowned for his intricate isometric murals across the Bay Area, you'll find a vibrant representation of every business and culinary style in the vicinity. Very Kensington Eats!
Zomsa
10558 San Pablo Ave
El Cerrito, CA 94530
https://zomsaelcerrito.com/
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