Taste of Nepal is within easy reach

Momos may have made their name here in restaurants like Tremont 647 and Om , but they're also a popular snack on the streets of Kathmandu , says Himalayan Bistro chef Dammar Thapa . Thapa grew up in Nepal but moved to India for his culinary education, where he worked in hotel restaurants. In the kitchen at this West Roxbury restaurant, he grinds lamb and seasons it with scallions and cilantro before tucking the filling into dumpling wrappers and steaming them until tender ($10.95). Momos are similar to Chinese potstickers , says Thapa, who explains how Nepali food combines native flavors with those of neighboring China and India. The chef enjoys bringing these tastes together, he says, although "to hit the tongue of every customer takes longer than you think." Himalayan Bistro, 1735 Centre St., West Roxbury, 617-325-3500. -- LEIGH BELANGER

Delight-filled Brazilian bites

If you're passing through Somerville's Union Square and are feeling peckish, stop into Padaria Brasil Bakery for a salgadinho, one of the savory snacks on display by the cash register. The golden-brown coxinhas , or croquettes, are deep-fried delights, filled with chicken ($1) or chicken and catupiry , a popular Brazilian cream cheese ($1.50). A crisp, slightly greasy exterior gives way to a doughy inner layer encasing the tangy, substantial filling. Because they're generous in size, you might be fooled into thinking you can eat just a few bites; more than likely, you'll keep on going. The pao de queijo ($1), airy, romano-cheese-filled rolls, are also good snacking. It's hard to go wrong with anything here. Wash down your treat with a can of Guarana , the ubiquitous Brazilian soda, or, if you're feeling bold, a caldo de cana (sugar cane juice). Padaria Brasil Bakery, 16 Bow St., Somerville, 617-628-3100 . -- AMI ALBERNAZ

Packing it away

Unhappy with the wasteful packaging and processed foods in the average school lunch, moms Amy Hemmert and Tammy Pelstring created the Japanese- inspired Laptop Lunch . It's a reusable plastic lunchbox that appeals to both children and adults. Roughly the size of its namesake, the Laptop Lunch comes with five brightly-colored plastic containers and a set of silverware that fit snugly inside ($20.99 to $24; $34.99 to 39.95 for an insulated carrying case and water bottle, too). There's room for a sandwich and snacks, or a multi-course meal. Pack it with leftovers from last night's dinner or takeout , or show the kids how handsome a PB&J can look. Available at Brookline Book smith , 279 Harvard St., Brookline, 617-566-6660 , or go to laptoplunches.com .-- MELISSA CARLSON

Catch of the day

When confusion sets in as you are reading a menu, trying to figure out what Patagonia toothfish, dorado , or whiting are, you're not alone. Unless you're a fishmonger, it's difficult to keep track of the names each fish goes by in every country. To sort it out, Aliza Green 's new "Field Guide to Seafood" (Quirk Books , $15.95 ) will fit nicely in your pocket. Green describes most fish on the market, their seasonality, characteristics, how to choose, store, and serve them and their alternative names; photos are also included. So with your little reference book, you will learn that Patagonia toothfish is also Chilean sea bass, dorado is mahi-mahi, and whiting and hake are the same. Available at most bookstores. -- JILL SANTOPIETRO