A taste of Korea and a sweet new treat arrives at Westfield Kotara
Newcastle foodies have a lot to celebrate with the arrival of not one but two vibrant new additions to The Rooftop dining precinct at Westfield Kotara.
Introducing Momo Chicken and Yomo Frozen Yogurt and Acai.
Launched by business partners Elijah Robinson, John Choi, and James Choi, these two ventures bring a dynamic blend of Korean street food flavours and playful frozen treats to our local dining scene.
The story behind Momo Chicken is one built on family, friendship, and a shared passion for hospitality. Originally founded in 2014 in Runcorn, Brisbane by the Choi family, Momo Chicken began as a small venture with just four menu items.
Over the years, it has blossomed into a bustling operation offering more than 40 dishes and nine locations, driven by the growing appetite for Korean cuisine in Australia.
“John and James’ parents wanted to introduce Korean food culture to the local community,” Elijah said.
For Elijah, the journey into hospitality was almost inevitable. Born and raised in Australia with Thai heritage, he grew up surrounded by family run businesses. After reconnecting with childhood best friend John Choi, the two, along with John’s brother James, formed the Munch Group – the team now behind a portfolio of venues.
Momo Chicken’s newest location at Westfield Kotara marks the brand’s first move outside of Queensland. With eight stores across the state, Elijah said the time felt right to expand interstate.
“NSW was our next option. We felt the need to start from regional NSW and work our way into Sydney. So, Newcastle was a great opportunity for us.”
For most of us, Momo Chicken will be a new experience, and trust us when we say you can expect much more than just incredible Korean fried chicken.
The menu spans Korean classics like kimchi fried rice, toppoki, Korean pancakes, and bibimbap. The standout, of course, is their Korean fried chicken, served up in a range of mouth-watering flavours.
The venue also boasts a full bar offering including cocktails, beers, wines, and, of course, soju!
Situated right next door, the team has also launched a brand new offering – Yomo Frozen Yogurt and Acai – a fresh concept that is full of colour and energy.
Featuring ten different froyo flavours (including acai), customers can self-serve and personalise their creations with over 50 different toppings. The majority of the flavours are gluten-free with a selection of vegan-friendly options available too.
“Yomo is a youthful and energetic brand. Our flavours and toppings will be rotated frequently offering new flavours but we will always keep the classics. We’ll soon be launching matcha tea with the option to add a yoghurt too.”
Both Momo Chicken and Yomo Froyo were designed to deliver a fun, vibrant, and comforting experience. Working with Tracy from NI Design (Queensland-based interior designer) and After Dark Design (Newcastle-based construction company), both fit-outs reflect the youthful spirit of both brands.
From the moment you step in, expect lively interiors that make you want to settle in, feast, and enjoy!
The two stores officially opened their doors to the public on Tuesday, April 15. So Newcastle, it’s time to pull up a chair, grab a fork – and a froyo cup – and experience the exciting new flavours waiting for you on The Rooftop at Westfield Kotara.
