Eat Local: Momo Sushi & Cafe

Tucked away in a small, unassuming townhouse at 212 Queen Street in Old Town Alexandria, Momo Sushi & Cafe is easy to overlook. That would be a shame, since what awaits you inside is guaranteed to be some of the best sushi available for miles! 

It's been five years since friendly and welcoming owners Yeon Son and her husband, sushi Chef Han Son sold their Bethesda restaurant and purchased their current location on Queen Street, just a few blocks from the Potomac. Because of the restaurant's tiny size, Yeon befittingly named her cozy new spot "Momo," which in Japanese means "The Peach."

Until 2009, only the first floor was available to customers, but as the restaurant's popularity grew, Yeon and Han renovated and opened the second floor-much to their loyal customers delight. So loyal, "Momo" is now the name of several local pets!

At Momo's, you will find a large selection of nigiri (sushi rice and fresh fish) and maki (combination of toppings and rice wrapped in sheets of seaweed). Popular specialty rolls range from spicy crunchy rolls (your choice of tuna, yellow tail, salmon, and white tuna), to the popular dynamite roll that comes deep fried with jalapeno, cream cheese, and salmon, to another favorite, the St. Thomas roll-deep fried tuna with a spicy sauce.

Yeon says sashimi (fresh sliced raw fish served with radish) is one of the most requested menu items. Upcoming spring specials include fresh live scallops and orange clams. If not in the mood for fish, Momo's also offers chicken teriyaki, rice bowls and various noodle dishes, as well as gyoza (pan fried dumplings). 

The restaurant offers a wide selection of Japanese sake (hot and cold) as well as a range of domestic and imported beers and several wine varieties.

Momo's does not take reservations, but offers their menu to-go. Hours are 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m. and 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Monday - Friday, 12 p.m. - 10 p.m. Saturday and 4 p.m. - 10 p.m. Sunday.