Mehhhhh. Came here with my boyfriend for dinner last night and was less than impressed. My first impression of the menu was that everything seemed wayyyy overpriced. The leek dumplings cost $10 for three so I assumed we would be getting some massive overstuffed dumplings. They were small and limp. I was astounded that they were so expensive! I ordered the Murgh Kebab and he got the Kofta and Aloo. My chicken tasted fresh but lacked any discernible seasoning and honestly, I could have made a better kebab at home. I subbed salad for rice for an extra $3 so my one kebab plus a wimpy salad of some cut up romaine, tomato bits and a few onions came out to around $17. My boyfriend's dish consisted of 4 small, dry meatballs and 3 chunks of potato for $15ish. The humanity... The bright spot was the chutney sampler, but the bread it came with was clearly store bought and they charge extra for more once you're done. Service was fine. We won't be back.
(2)
Grace H.
I don't know too much about Afghan food so I was intrigued when my friend suggested meeting here. Luckily there is free parking in a lot nearby the neighboring Dunn bros. Usually I shy away from parallel parking by grand ave and park in the neighborhood but I didn't have to this time which was nice because it was pretty cold out. I enjoyed reading the story of the owners before my friend arrived. Our server was super sweet, offering to snap photos of the front of the store for me if I felt awkward doing it. The menu options weren't overwhelming. My friend got tea while I tried some sort of yogurt drink. It was pretty unique. Not something I loved but an interesting experience. I'm usually pretty picky with curry so I decided to go with something else which helped narrow down the selection. In the end I went with a lamb kebab which was delicious. Overall a good experience. Would probably venture trying a different kind of meat and drink next time.
(4)
Jason B.
Never got a chance to try the food. When I go into a restaurant and I watch the cook come out of the kitchen.. Put ingredients from the Buffet onto a plate.. Take it back into the Kitchen (semi open) add some ingredients and send it out as a menu dish that costs more than the all you can eat buffet, I am not going to be impressed.. In fact I am going to be P'd off enough to walk out. Especially when the buffet was already looking a little thin and there seemed no urgency to add more food to it despite new customers coming in to purchase the buffet. I might give this place a chance again some day.. But as of right now I advise you to avoid the "amateur hour" experience of this place and to try something that feels a little more professional.
(2)
kate s.
Honestly, the place is gorgeous inside and the food was really good. But the service is so awful, we won't go back (unless things change!) First, you sit at your table forever before someone finally takes your order. Then, we actually got the wrong appetizer brought out to us, but no one ever came back to check on us so we just ate it. The restaurant was only about half full (and there are not many tables) and we waited for about 40 minutes for our food. By that time, we were both out of our beverages but no one came to ask if we wanted another round. After we were done eating, we again sat forever before we could ask for our check, and then we waited and waited to get it.... Sigh. It's too bad because really the food was very tasty.
(1)
Patti K.
This is a great little place for dinner. Nice ethnic music and decor, and very good food. We had aushak (leek dumplings), kadoo borani (squash, rice, and yogurt dish), and korma-e-sabzi (lamb, spinach, and rice dish). The food was excellent. The lamb in particular was very tender, and nicely spiced. The squash was sweeter than I expected, but tasty and filling. I had leek dumplings several years ago at another Afghani restaurant, and these were just as good as what I remember. We also ordered a chutney, which gave everything an extra kick. The service was very attentive, and the food came out quickly. The prices were also very reasonable for a classy sit-down place. We passed by this place many times, but always on a Sunday when they're closed. I'm glad that we made it back to actually eat.
Khyber Pass was a good experience. I stopped in for lunch to learn what Afghani food is like, and was surprised to find a buffet. I found it to be slightly overpriced at $10.50, but it is all you can eat. I am not a fan of a couple of the items, but I'm also pretty picky. Hands down the best thing they had was the cilantro chutney. It was second to none. And as much as I didn't want to try the custard, I got forced into it and it was actually quite tasty and sweet! Don't pass it up. If you're into lamb or vegetarian dishes, their menu will suit you well. If you are only looking for beef or chicken, you will find your selection limited. Oh, and make sure to stop into the cheese place next door, it's kinda neat too.
(4)
Dawn S.
I have been here three times since my initial visit. The last two times there was a different manager/waiter. He is a tall man with dark hair. He provides excellent customer service, he is attentive and seems to truly care about the experience he provides. My advice: if you see a crabby looking middle-aged woman running the place - turn around and walk out, but if you see a kind looking tall man running the place - stay and have a lovely experience.
(4)
Barna S.
We had to pay half buffet price for our 2 year old son who ate part of my nan and a chicken piece. We felt it was very rude. I am not going back there ever.
(1)
Milly M.
Cilantro Chutney, where have you been all my life? Red-Hot Chili Pepper & Tomato Chutney as well. The food was made with care, great service and very warm decor. Can't wait to try the buffet.
(4)
Mother B.
I had the lunch buffet and have to say for 10.99 it is worth it! The food is fantastic! The place is nice and clean. There is a large menu you can order a variety of authentic dishes from. I did not order off the menu. The buffet had pita bread, rice, a variety of vegetables, legumes, hummus, salad, chutney, yogurt. The entree's were of eggplant, curry chicken, grilled chicken, beef meatballs - vegetarians and carnivores will find plenty on this buffet. The only reason I didn't rate this place higher, is because of the very weird vibe coming off the staff. They were a little prickly and slow. I felt like the manager was the overlord and the waitstaff were the lowly servants... it translated as an oppressive vibe - not many smiles, not easy communication. Asking for water almost felt like a crime. Otherwise, the food is good. Do the buffet and avoid the staff!
(3)
Luca R.
I'm unfortunately downgrading my review. It has nothing at all to do with the food - it's just as good as it's always been. But the past couple times I've gone here the service has either remained at its middling-low level or gotten worse. It is somewhat slow, but I'm okay with a restaurant taking a while to cook the food if the food is good. The problem is how long it takes before ordering and how long it takes to get your check. My wife would say this is because I'm impatient, and maybe I am. But when you have a 1-year-old with you who is obviously getting fidgety and complaining, maybe you should send someone over and ask if you're finished. The last time we went here, I had to walk up to the back of the restaurant and ask them to bring out the check because we had finished all of our food about ten minutes prior and my daughter was very ready to leave. You can come here if you enjoy taking your time and don't mind waiting a long time to order and another long time to pay. If you want a long, slow evening, it's great. And the food is good! But if you have kids, you will have to be very assertive and prepared. Figure out what you want to order as quickly as possible, possibly from their online menu before you leave. Never say that you need more time. If you do have a small child with you, be prepared to walk around the place hunting for someone so you can pay, and have your card at the ready so you don't have to wait again. Every transaction between you and the staff has the potential to take 10-15 minutes, so just keep that in mind.
(3)
Tony P.
Never had Afghani fare before going for their lunch today. It was somewhat confusing as I didn't know exactly what was supposed to go together exactly. I had a very long ago memory about eating a lot of items with naan. I wrapped a couple of things up and actually had quite a nice lunch. It was good, I would've probably enjoyed it more with a staff tutorial before hand.
(4)
Brian L.
This is a go-to place for the student who wants to rock a buffet and eat that one meal of the day for around $10. The menu is pretty consistent - some veggie and some meat, rice, legumes, hummus, salad, and dessert. Very mild, wholesome tasting. The servers might be a little shy, but have always been polite even after I eat my third plate of food.
(4)
Danielle R.
I came here for the first time last week with my dad, he comes every Thursday night for their music. I love the atmosphere; the venue is small, cozy, and beautiful. The sauce served with the naan was one of the best things I ever tasted. We both had the Aloo Korma and it was delicious. Next time I will be sure to order a chutney--the cherry chutney in particular looked appetizing. The owner was there and greeted us warmly, he checked on our table a few times to be sure we were enjoying ourselves. Our server was always nearby in case we needed anything; I never had an empty water glass!
(5)
Rowena N.
This place makes me consider why I do not venture out to St. Paul more often for dinner/lunch. The restaurant is situated right next to a free public parking lot. Yes, 2 free hours of parking. Inside, it is a quaint, appropriately dimmed restaurant. I thought the menus were sort of cute because they have a brief narrative about afghan cuisine and history. My friend who is a vegetarian loves it here and tried nearly everything so I knew i was in good hands. I came here with two girlfriends for a girls night out sort of deal. We tried the chutney sampler: the cilantro with walnut,red hot chili pepper and tomato and cherry. All three were so good that we asked for more pita bread because we finished them so quickly. The chili one has a nice kick to it. I got the Kofta and Aloo (beef meatballs with red curry potatoes), my friend got Kofta and Daal (beef meatballs with lentils) and my vegetarian friend got a bunch of appetizers (Borani aka eggplant with yogurt, and shola which is mungbean with brown sticky rice). We tried each others and all of them were so good. I must say that these beef meatballs were the best i ever had. They were so tender and airy! I can eat a bowl of these balls without shame. The portions were reasonable for the price ($13 for the meatballs with basmati rice and salad). We were stuffed but being the fatties we are, we decided to split the rice pudding with rose water ($4). It was very fragrant but the texture was not what I expected. I thought it would be more like tapioca pudding but it was like a jello type of texture. My friends liked it, but i thought it was average...not something i would get again. That being said, i just dont really dig flowery scented food in general. I would have taken a picture but my full belly was in the way of me bending over to get my phone from my purse. In terms of service, i was pleasantly surprised. Few of the reviews noted how the service is terrible but we had a really good experience. the only minor hiccup was that my vegetarian friend ordered leek dumplings and they made the last batch with meat by accident. So, she end up with one appetizer less. However the owner came and apologized, and they caught it before they served it. He was also super nice and helpful in answering her questions since she needed to make sure her food did not have meat/meat-based stock in it. Overall, I would come back again.. and probably get those balls again.
(5)
Lola S.
I came here in wet frustration (literally, it was pouring down rain) after getting bad service at another Middle Eastern Restaurant. I should have just came here first! I had the Daal Korma with lamb. It was delicious and I was stuffed by the time I finished it. My only complaint is that I asked for extra bread, and there were only three pieces. But that's probably just me being greedy.
(4)
Noel M.
We ordered food from Khyber Pass on BiteSquad recently. I had never had Afghan food before but have eaten other similar cuisines many times. This was delicious. Everything came hot and well packaged. The flavors were distinct and interesting. I would highly recommend this place just based on the food. Cilantro sauce was particularly yummy. My husband and I both really enjoyed it. We will definitely order again and will probably try in person sometime soon.
(5)
Shaun J.
I just happened to be in the neighborhood. It's Friday during Lent, so I went with the veggie shola. It was tasty. It didn't look like a lot of food, but I was full by the time I left. They are pleasant and efficient.
(4)
Merrill N.
This is one of my all-time favorite places. Their lunch buffet is unreal. The cilantro chutney is out of this world!
(5)
Duran G.
The owner and waitress were extremely efficient. The restaurant is pristine, the food is amazing, and I loved the Chai! I will continue to eat here as long as I live! Thank you!
(5)
Chandler P.
I'm so glad a friend introduced me to this place. The food was exotic and excellent. We had the chutney sampler and it was perfect: Cherry, Mango and Traditional. That plus an amazing squash appetizer and lamb curry with mung bean. Yum! It was so good that I had them cater my birthday. Go!
(5)
Jessica S.
A brief preface. My hometown in NJ has an outstanding Afghan restaurant! Both veggie- and meat-based options are very well-seasoned with cardamom, saffron, and other "exotic" spices., their fragrant rice dishes were leagues ahead of standard basmati, and the naan was always warm and fresh from the tandoor. Needless to say, I had developed high standards for Afghan cooking.... At Khyber Pass, we opted for the Saturday buffet lunch. A head-to-head look at off-menu ordering vs. buffet might be like comparing apples to oranges (which, by the way, happens to be an entirely feasible undertaking). Unfortunately, KP fell a few notches short of the gold standard. The buffet selection was fairly limited with approximately 4 hot stew-like veggie dishes, 3 meat dishes (including kofte/meatballs), naan, a simple salad, hummus, and a custardy cardamom & rose-water dessert. I can tolerate few options, if the offerings are quality. Not the case. The naan didn't strike me as freshly baked; the 4 veggie dishes were nearly indistinguishable in terms of flavor, or lack of; and the kofte was too dry for my liking. A heavier hand with the delicious spices of the Afghan cuisine would make a major difference, as would more effective buffet burners to keep the food sufficiently warm. Given the favorable ratings from other Yelpers, I am clearly an outlier in my initial take on KP. I'm hoping my experience is not representative of their usual performance and they were just having an off day.
(2)
Erin O.
I go here with friends sometimes because the food is great and at a good price (don't forget to show school IDs for student discounts!). I brought my grandmother and she could not stop raving about the restaurant atmosphere and the food. It's an awesome winter night destination because it's warm and cozy inside. We both got Murgh Korma, which is a delicious chicken dish served on a bed of basmati rice with potatoes and a small salad on the side (This dish is great for those who are not so adventurous in taste). The portions are great too! There is a free 2 hour parking lot really close and it's close to the neighborhood as well.
(5)
Danielle G.
Khyber Pass is so good. It is a great, quick lunch spot, especially for vegetarians. Their lunch buffet (a good price at around $10 - plus you can get a student discount) is super delicious and has mostly veggie options. The food on the buffet could be a little warmer though.
(4)
Matt F.
Sweet spot for homage authentic tasty food. Casual and comfortable with high quality ingredients.
(4)
Jane E.
My flight was delayed so I had a nice meal with family at this place. We were the first guests to arrive and tried their buffet. The food was delicious and had a homemade quality about it. The interior is tastefully decorated and the family that owns the restaurant is very nice. All in all, a surprising but delicious find!
(4)
Rhonda G.
A great place to go to dinner after a reading at Common Goods Bookstore. I got the meatballs with the cilantro chutney sauce. They were tender and delicious. I wasn't crazy about the potatoes. I tasted the spinach and it was odd. It includes an undressed salad on the plate which is just useless. We ordered hummus. Everyone makes it slightly different, and this passed with flying colors. Soda comes in cans. I'm crazy about middle eastern meatballs, and love cilantro. I might get some form of this every time.
(4)
Kel K.
Must preface this by saying I was an Afghani food virgin. There was not one soul dining on this wonderful weather Wednesday at noon yet we were pleased with the lamb and hummus plates provided. Only setback or suggestion would be to add a patio. The weather was beautiful and we Minnesotans deserve to sit and worship the sun after the winter (and extended winter) from hell!
(3)
M K.
My only trip to this cafe was not a very pleasant experience. The food was very expensive and it was cold like beer. Also the rice seemed to have been under cooked. The atmosphere though was ok at best
(1)
Natalie N.
I had never tried Afghani food prior to coming to Khyber Pass, but since my first visit I have been hooked. I have frequented Khyber Pass for the lunch buffet, which offers a great variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. I've tried almost everything the buffet has to offer, and you really can't go wrong with any of it. The food is excellent. The service is great, and the ambiance is casual and cozy. Lovely decor. Prices are also quite reasonable. There is free parking in the adjacent lot (next to Dunn Bros), and also a student discount during the lunch hour if you show your student ID. Khyber Pass is an excellent option for those seeking a delicious, quick lunch. I'm hoping to make it here for dinner soon!
(4)
Nimisha D.
I loved the Aushak, so good, and the chutney was yum, wish I could have taken a batch home. Enjoyed the food, the tea was good too. The restaurant was empty on a snowy Tuesday night but don't be put off by a lack of diners, this place is worth a visit!
(3)
Sue S.
Only giving one star because zero is not an option. Restaurant is open until 9 according to its door and Yelp. Yet upon arriving at 8:20, the woman disappeared into the back of the house for 5 minutes only to reappear and tell us the kitchen was closed! WTF. We went down the street to give our money to a restaurant that deserves it. #fail
(1)
Patti I.
Outstanding food in a comfortable atmosphere. My favorite entree is shola, which is rice and mung beans cooked together. The shola is creamy, filling, and seasoned just right. It's available with lamb (my fave) or as a vegetarian dish. They also offer various kabobs and curries (fairly mild) served on a bed of rice with a light salad of tomatoes, onion, and cilantro on the side--always a refreshing counterpoint. They honored the 20% student discount for our meal even though it was not the buffet hour. :-) The restaurant is not overly decorated, just richly colored walls with Afghan rugs and textiles and light streaming in the windows--very pleasant and serene. I'd give Khyber Pass five stars if we were only talking about food. I have been eating here since it first opened at the corner of Hamline and St. Clair and have returned year after year for the awesome food despite the sometimes spotty and slow service. At my most recent visit, the food knocked our socks off, but we waited 15 minutes for it. This is still a major improvement from the old days when it sometimes took an hour!
(4)
Leigh B.
Something a bit different for the vegetarians out there! I'd never had Afghani food before eating here, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I'm a big fan of Indian food, and this was definitely different, but it was a nice change of pace. Quiet, small dining area; all around, a nice neighborhood restaurant.
(5)
Chad K.
I went to this restaurant for dinner with a friend from out of town, and I am so glad I did. Everything I tried on this initial visit was excellent. We started with the leek dumplings, which were delicate and flavorful - one of the highlights of the meal. I had the vegetarian plate while my friend had the combination plate. It was a delightful dining experience, and I found the staff friendly and very helpful. I don't know how authentic Afghan it is - but I will definitely be back.
(4)
Kara M.
As someone who has previously enjoyed home cooked, authentic Afghan food, let me just say: this place is WONDERFUL and I'm in love. The food was rich and flavorful but not heavy or greasy. The portions were perfect for me but could be bigger. What could have been a bad experience was made right by excellent hospitality on top of good food. I came here with my parents a few weeks back on a Monday night for dinner. The place wasn't crowded but there were a fair number of diners for a Monday. As much as I loved the food, I will admit, you have to do some waiting. As with any truly cultural dining experience, you can not expect a quick meal. It took a little long to get our order placed and it took very long for our food to arrive. Two of the three plates came out at the same time (for my mother and myself) and we decided to wait for the third so we could eat all together. So we waited... and waited... eventually we all started sharing off each others plates because we three were starving. When the food finally arrived the owner apologized profusely and we loved every bite. Although we didn't complain or ask for anything, the owner came by again and offered a free chutney which we gratefully accepted and also enjoyed. I highly recommend ordering chutney with your food as it adds even MORE flavor! Wonderful stuff. Once our meal and chutney was finished, she gave us a FREE dessert as well! We had the most excellent rice pudding I have ever had. All in all, an EXCELLENT dining experience. I can't wait to go again :)
(5)
Danica G.
I'm kicking myself for not making it here earlier. Food is terrific, service was great, and there's enough variety to make a return visit different from the last one. Afghani food seems to be surprisingly accessible - think of a cross between Middle East and Indian. Familiar, yet unique. I'd take a not-too-adventurous eater here and would bet they'd enjoy themselves, too.
(5)
Phil J.
Having never tried Afghani food this was such an amazing experience. We were greeted very quickly and we had no problem getting a table. Going with recommendations given by our server we tried the Vegetarian Shol and added Spinach. It is the kind of meal you want to savor but can't help eating super fast. so many different new tastes it was a real treat. Daygcha and Baklava for desert and this meal was perfectly rounded off. I will definitely be back again and would highly recommend this as one of your stops in the Twin Cities.
(5)
Landon Y.
We went for the lunch buffet today and now it's going to be one of my favorite restaurants. All the food was fresh and delicious. Everything had depth and loads of flavor. Even though it was getting close to the end, they still kept refilling the food. This is a fantastic place, worth checking out. Vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters will all be satisfied.
(5)
Joe I.
Ate the buffet lunch here recently...YUM. The food was delicious. Awesome. I can't wait to come back. The restaurant is nicely decorated, and the staff are pleasant. Not five star service, but efficient. I will eagerly return.
(4)
David S.
OK, so I'm the friend from Chicago that Chad K.'s talking about. I've got to say that this was one the best meals (beyond my own kitchen) that I've had out in quite a while. I had the Combo #2. The lamb kabobs were a deliciously tender, medium rare, the curried chicken had just the right about of spice for me, the milk pudding was a creamy, sweet, but just light enough finish. Some highlights of the experience - walking into the foyer with the fabulous rugs hanging overhead. The Afghani ambiance was just right. I agree with Chad - I loved the dumpling appetizer. A fun moment of the evening came after being disappointed about not having an Afghan beer on the list, only to have my local "Summit" delivered with the words (and a wry smile) "Your Afghan beer, sir." Does it count if it's delivered by a friendly Afghani waitress? It did for me! I'd climb this pass again!
(4)
Mike D.
some truly outstanding dishes are served here -- good for takeout as well
(4)
Mark B.
This place had food that tasted amazingly fresh and had great flavor. Our host was welcoming and convinced some people to try something new - for their own good. The prices were very reasonable and the paintings on the wall added to the atmosphere. Definitely recommended.
(5)
Sara R.
We love Khyber Pass for a night out. The food is excellent, although the menu does not change much, I can always find something to hit the spot. Emel and his wife are lovely hosts and always very gracious to our son. The lunch buffett is a great deal, but we usually go for dinner. Tip go early they close on the early side.
(4)
Ben T.
I have been here a few times and have always enjoyed their food. The location is perfect for Macalester students who want to celebrate completion of a paper or exam and end their studious fast. Also, you might want to check next door at Kinkos for local celebrities! I have a wonderful memory of eating here and then stopping at Kinkos where I saw Garrison Keillor making copies for the Prairie Companion show he hosts! I have come here to have brunch, lunch and dinner and have to say the best meal was the buffet (I believe it's offered on weekends). The lamb dish I ordered was very tender and the side of potatoes went very well with it. I will be back here when I visit Macalester next time!
(4)
Ericka A.
I like to go here when I have long lunch breaks between classes. It is perfectly located in the college area and easily accessible by car, foot, bus or ACTC shuttle. They are open for lunch and dinner, but lunch time is when the discounted buffet is served. The menu items are similar to what you would find at a Indian or Middle Eastern restaurant and not very spicy (although you might be able to order something spicy). There is always a good selection of food and you can order a plate if nothing at the buffet looks good. Drinks are plentiful and delicious - I like the mango yogurt drink. Desert has not let me down - baklava is the way to go! Service could be better. The staff tends to forget about you, but it's not too hard to walk up to the register to pay if you don't want to wait forever; however, it can be a pain if you want to order something else or have water refilled.
(4)
Ray S.
This is a low review for the fact that the service has been terrible both times I have been. The food is great, the prices fine, but the wait staff have been insulting and desultory when asked the most basic questions. Such as, 45 minutes after ordering,with only two other customers in the restaurant, we asked when our food was coming, the waitress double-taked, rolled her eyes and asked "Are you in a hurry or something?". Please hire better wait staff!
(1)
Margaret M.
My husband and I have been eating at the Khyber Pass since it was located on St. Clair Ave. We have never had a bad meal at either location, and have always been pleased with the friendly service. This restaurant is a gem, and we're lucky to have it. I especially love their cilantro chutney and have for years been trying to replicate it at home. Tasty and wholesome food at a reasonable price.
(4)
Annette N.
This place is fantastic. Just go. I would not be lying if I said that I could eat here for lunch and dinner every day for the rest of my life. If I squeeze into Paradise, I will be drinking sheer chai like the Khyber Pass' sheer chai for all eternity.
(5)
Danna M.
Yum! Don't pass over the leek dumplings. They are delicious.
(4)
Ann L.
This restaurant is absolutely amazing! I've never had Afghanistan food before, nor am I a big fan of Middle Eastern restaurants. But this restaurant is by far my favorite and one of the best!!
(5)
Christy T.
I was impressed. Came here on an impulse while in town and enjoyed a delicious vegetarian meal. We split two dishes between three people, and it was plenty. Even with the beers, it was a fairly reasonably priced meal. We had the mung beans and the vegetarian sampler (with spinach, eggplant and potatoes). The meal came with plenty of rice, cooling chutney (yum!) and pita-- we asked for more sauce and pita a few times and the waitron was more than happy to accommodate. Sweet! They had a couple of local beer options, which was also nice. I'm not from the Twin Cities, and when I travel, I like to sample the local offerings. Overall, the meal was relaxing, filling and hassle-free. I think if I lived nearby, this might be a go-to place for me.
(4)
Jackie L.
I've been a fan of Khyber Pass since they were on St. Clair Avenue. I like the Grand Avenue locale as well, with its understated decor featuring pictures of Afghani people and villages. In short, I've never had a bad meal here. My favorite items are the shola and aushak. They have a decent lunch buffet but I tend to order off the menu when I'm here. Not sure what Afghani food is all about? If you like Indian and Middle Eastern, you will like Afghani food... it's not super spicy but absolutely flavorful. I haven't been back in about a year, so I'm overdue for another visit!
(5)
Karthik V.
Great eggplant borani, leek dumplings, chutneys and dogh. The main courses we ordered were very good and nicely spiced. The bread, however, could have been a bit more soft and warmer especially since we pay for it. Overall, a great spot in the St. Paul area!
(4)
New T.
I was completely disappointed and disheartened by a lunch buffet visit here, shortly after moving to the neighborhood. I'd hoped this could be a regular destination within walking distance, for a convenient buffet lunch. However, I was made to feel completely unwelcome. I entered with my still-nursed 18-month-old baby. I served myself from the buffet. I created a small condiment dish with a piece of pita bread and yogurt for my baby. I was informed by the manager that my child would receive the "child buffet price", or half the adult price, so $10 for me, and $5 for the baby. When I politely expressed surprise, given that often a child under 2 is welcomed, I was told in a patronizing tone, that "at a buffet meal, everyone pays the same price no matter how much he eats" as though I did not understand the concept of a buffet. I conveyed my surprise and expressed that I'd gladly pay, but that I would not return to the restaurant. I was then given... another 50% discount on my baby's tablespoon of yogurt and bite of bread from my plate! I left $20 and instructed there to be a generous tip for the young waitress, who was very sweet. The food was fine, but given that it was sort of bland and nondescript, at the buffet anyway, I'm not too shattered at the idea of never returning, which I never will! Welcome to the neighborhood!
(1)
John L.
Went here for the lunch buffet. I often worry about buffet food being Luke-warm and stagnant, but the entrees were hot and fresh. The flavors weren't a life changing experience for me but quite good and worth going back to check out some of their menu entrees.
(4)
Danger H.
Love this place, the food is great, the service is good. The tea is wonderful. OK beer and wine list. We have never had a bad moment here.
(4)
Kaiser K.
I'm actually surprised at the good reviews this place is getting here. My experience there was not good at all. Being quite familiar with Afghan cuisine, I have to say that the food there was not traditional at all!!! The bread they served is a very common commercially produced naan/pita you can purchase anywhere served with a mint chutney available at Indian grocery stores. The chai was black tea with tonnes of sugar and its not even the traditional Afghan tea which is infact green tea. Food was way over priced and under seasoned. The rice had too much ghee (traditional butter). None of the elements that make Afghan food so special were there. If only the owner spent more money on food taste and quality rather than interior...
(2)
Jennifer W.
The inside is quaint and the waiter was very nice. The Afghan tea was delicious and has free refills! The buffet looked great, but I wasn't that hungry so I ordered eggplant instead. The food took a while to come out, but it was worth the wait. Very delicious!
(4)
John J.
We went there this past Saturday for lunch. We relied on the owner's recommendations and were highly satisfied. Flavorful food. Very good hummus and eggplant appetizers.
(4)
Waylon W.
Lordy, what a fantastic experience!! I decided to make reservations during Dinning Out for Life and ended up getting the last reservation of the night. We had to wait a little longer than we would have liked after our reserved time, but hey...it was an unusually busy night. The staff was helpful and very welcoming. The food was FANTASTIC. Everyone in our party (5 people) raved about the experienced. The grilled chicken was some of the moist chicken I have ever had. It melted in your mouth. Don't even get me started on the baklava.
(5)
James M.
Neat place. I would go again with some friends. This place serves different food and has a nice atmosphere. Not my first choice when observing the local options.
(3)
Amanda K.
We had an enjoyable dinner here. Early in the evening, the place was starting to get busy but our server was extremely attentive. The restaurant is cozy and cutely decorated. My husband and I split two of the combination plates; I think if I went again I would just want the lamb kebabs because they were really delicious, but it was fun to try a little of a few different things. Parking is available in the lot next door.
Takes Reservations : Yes Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch, Dinner Parking : Street, Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Dogs Allowed : Yes Waiter Service : Yes Caters : No
Sarah C.
Mehhhhh. Came here with my boyfriend for dinner last night and was less than impressed. My first impression of the menu was that everything seemed wayyyy overpriced. The leek dumplings cost $10 for three so I assumed we would be getting some massive overstuffed dumplings. They were small and limp. I was astounded that they were so expensive! I ordered the Murgh Kebab and he got the Kofta and Aloo. My chicken tasted fresh but lacked any discernible seasoning and honestly, I could have made a better kebab at home. I subbed salad for rice for an extra $3 so my one kebab plus a wimpy salad of some cut up romaine, tomato bits and a few onions came out to around $17. My boyfriend's dish consisted of 4 small, dry meatballs and 3 chunks of potato for $15ish. The humanity... The bright spot was the chutney sampler, but the bread it came with was clearly store bought and they charge extra for more once you're done. Service was fine. We won't be back.
(2)Grace H.
I don't know too much about Afghan food so I was intrigued when my friend suggested meeting here. Luckily there is free parking in a lot nearby the neighboring Dunn bros. Usually I shy away from parallel parking by grand ave and park in the neighborhood but I didn't have to this time which was nice because it was pretty cold out. I enjoyed reading the story of the owners before my friend arrived. Our server was super sweet, offering to snap photos of the front of the store for me if I felt awkward doing it. The menu options weren't overwhelming. My friend got tea while I tried some sort of yogurt drink. It was pretty unique. Not something I loved but an interesting experience. I'm usually pretty picky with curry so I decided to go with something else which helped narrow down the selection. In the end I went with a lamb kebab which was delicious. Overall a good experience. Would probably venture trying a different kind of meat and drink next time.
(4)Jason B.
Never got a chance to try the food. When I go into a restaurant and I watch the cook come out of the kitchen.. Put ingredients from the Buffet onto a plate.. Take it back into the Kitchen (semi open) add some ingredients and send it out as a menu dish that costs more than the all you can eat buffet, I am not going to be impressed.. In fact I am going to be P'd off enough to walk out. Especially when the buffet was already looking a little thin and there seemed no urgency to add more food to it despite new customers coming in to purchase the buffet. I might give this place a chance again some day.. But as of right now I advise you to avoid the "amateur hour" experience of this place and to try something that feels a little more professional.
(2)kate s.
Honestly, the place is gorgeous inside and the food was really good. But the service is so awful, we won't go back (unless things change!) First, you sit at your table forever before someone finally takes your order. Then, we actually got the wrong appetizer brought out to us, but no one ever came back to check on us so we just ate it. The restaurant was only about half full (and there are not many tables) and we waited for about 40 minutes for our food. By that time, we were both out of our beverages but no one came to ask if we wanted another round. After we were done eating, we again sat forever before we could ask for our check, and then we waited and waited to get it.... Sigh. It's too bad because really the food was very tasty.
(1)Patti K.
This is a great little place for dinner. Nice ethnic music and decor, and very good food. We had aushak (leek dumplings), kadoo borani (squash, rice, and yogurt dish), and korma-e-sabzi (lamb, spinach, and rice dish). The food was excellent. The lamb in particular was very tender, and nicely spiced. The squash was sweeter than I expected, but tasty and filling. I had leek dumplings several years ago at another Afghani restaurant, and these were just as good as what I remember. We also ordered a chutney, which gave everything an extra kick. The service was very attentive, and the food came out quickly. The prices were also very reasonable for a classy sit-down place. We passed by this place many times, but always on a Sunday when they're closed. I'm glad that we made it back to actually eat.
(4)Jack F.
Before I started this review I rated this restaurant four stars, then I started thinking ... why did they lose a star? For the life of me, I can't figure out why other than the fact that afghan food is just somewhat ok by definition. So I upted it to five stars because everything here was DELICIOUS. My girl and I stopped in for lunch when we went to the Meander Grand event which was a nonevent if I've ever seen one. I had the braised lamb with lentils which they hit... Absolutely. Out. Of. The. Park. My girl got the lunch buffet which included kebabs, curried chicken, hummus, salad, curried potatoes and meatballs. Everything is very good although the meatballs had an odd texture that we did not like. Of special note was the cilantro walnut chutney which was good on EVERYTHING and the milk pudding with rosewater. The hummus was also great and ranked among the best either of us have had. The atmosphere is casual café and the service was very good even though we were one of only three tables in the place at the time.
(5)Matthew S.
Khyber Pass was a good experience. I stopped in for lunch to learn what Afghani food is like, and was surprised to find a buffet. I found it to be slightly overpriced at $10.50, but it is all you can eat. I am not a fan of a couple of the items, but I'm also pretty picky. Hands down the best thing they had was the cilantro chutney. It was second to none. And as much as I didn't want to try the custard, I got forced into it and it was actually quite tasty and sweet! Don't pass it up. If you're into lamb or vegetarian dishes, their menu will suit you well. If you are only looking for beef or chicken, you will find your selection limited. Oh, and make sure to stop into the cheese place next door, it's kinda neat too.
(4)Dawn S.
I have been here three times since my initial visit. The last two times there was a different manager/waiter. He is a tall man with dark hair. He provides excellent customer service, he is attentive and seems to truly care about the experience he provides. My advice: if you see a crabby looking middle-aged woman running the place - turn around and walk out, but if you see a kind looking tall man running the place - stay and have a lovely experience.
(4)Barna S.
We had to pay half buffet price for our 2 year old son who ate part of my nan and a chicken piece. We felt it was very rude. I am not going back there ever.
(1)Milly M.
Cilantro Chutney, where have you been all my life? Red-Hot Chili Pepper & Tomato Chutney as well. The food was made with care, great service and very warm decor. Can't wait to try the buffet.
(4)Mother B.
I had the lunch buffet and have to say for 10.99 it is worth it! The food is fantastic! The place is nice and clean. There is a large menu you can order a variety of authentic dishes from. I did not order off the menu. The buffet had pita bread, rice, a variety of vegetables, legumes, hummus, salad, chutney, yogurt. The entree's were of eggplant, curry chicken, grilled chicken, beef meatballs - vegetarians and carnivores will find plenty on this buffet. The only reason I didn't rate this place higher, is because of the very weird vibe coming off the staff. They were a little prickly and slow. I felt like the manager was the overlord and the waitstaff were the lowly servants... it translated as an oppressive vibe - not many smiles, not easy communication. Asking for water almost felt like a crime. Otherwise, the food is good. Do the buffet and avoid the staff!
(3)Luca R.
I'm unfortunately downgrading my review. It has nothing at all to do with the food - it's just as good as it's always been. But the past couple times I've gone here the service has either remained at its middling-low level or gotten worse. It is somewhat slow, but I'm okay with a restaurant taking a while to cook the food if the food is good. The problem is how long it takes before ordering and how long it takes to get your check. My wife would say this is because I'm impatient, and maybe I am. But when you have a 1-year-old with you who is obviously getting fidgety and complaining, maybe you should send someone over and ask if you're finished. The last time we went here, I had to walk up to the back of the restaurant and ask them to bring out the check because we had finished all of our food about ten minutes prior and my daughter was very ready to leave. You can come here if you enjoy taking your time and don't mind waiting a long time to order and another long time to pay. If you want a long, slow evening, it's great. And the food is good! But if you have kids, you will have to be very assertive and prepared. Figure out what you want to order as quickly as possible, possibly from their online menu before you leave. Never say that you need more time. If you do have a small child with you, be prepared to walk around the place hunting for someone so you can pay, and have your card at the ready so you don't have to wait again. Every transaction between you and the staff has the potential to take 10-15 minutes, so just keep that in mind.
(3)Tony P.
Never had Afghani fare before going for their lunch today. It was somewhat confusing as I didn't know exactly what was supposed to go together exactly. I had a very long ago memory about eating a lot of items with naan. I wrapped a couple of things up and actually had quite a nice lunch. It was good, I would've probably enjoyed it more with a staff tutorial before hand.
(4)Brian L.
This is a go-to place for the student who wants to rock a buffet and eat that one meal of the day for around $10. The menu is pretty consistent - some veggie and some meat, rice, legumes, hummus, salad, and dessert. Very mild, wholesome tasting. The servers might be a little shy, but have always been polite even after I eat my third plate of food.
(4)Danielle R.
I came here for the first time last week with my dad, he comes every Thursday night for their music. I love the atmosphere; the venue is small, cozy, and beautiful. The sauce served with the naan was one of the best things I ever tasted. We both had the Aloo Korma and it was delicious. Next time I will be sure to order a chutney--the cherry chutney in particular looked appetizing. The owner was there and greeted us warmly, he checked on our table a few times to be sure we were enjoying ourselves. Our server was always nearby in case we needed anything; I never had an empty water glass!
(5)Rowena N.
This place makes me consider why I do not venture out to St. Paul more often for dinner/lunch. The restaurant is situated right next to a free public parking lot. Yes, 2 free hours of parking. Inside, it is a quaint, appropriately dimmed restaurant. I thought the menus were sort of cute because they have a brief narrative about afghan cuisine and history. My friend who is a vegetarian loves it here and tried nearly everything so I knew i was in good hands. I came here with two girlfriends for a girls night out sort of deal. We tried the chutney sampler: the cilantro with walnut,red hot chili pepper and tomato and cherry. All three were so good that we asked for more pita bread because we finished them so quickly. The chili one has a nice kick to it. I got the Kofta and Aloo (beef meatballs with red curry potatoes), my friend got Kofta and Daal (beef meatballs with lentils) and my vegetarian friend got a bunch of appetizers (Borani aka eggplant with yogurt, and shola which is mungbean with brown sticky rice). We tried each others and all of them were so good. I must say that these beef meatballs were the best i ever had. They were so tender and airy! I can eat a bowl of these balls without shame. The portions were reasonable for the price ($13 for the meatballs with basmati rice and salad). We were stuffed but being the fatties we are, we decided to split the rice pudding with rose water ($4). It was very fragrant but the texture was not what I expected. I thought it would be more like tapioca pudding but it was like a jello type of texture. My friends liked it, but i thought it was average...not something i would get again. That being said, i just dont really dig flowery scented food in general. I would have taken a picture but my full belly was in the way of me bending over to get my phone from my purse. In terms of service, i was pleasantly surprised. Few of the reviews noted how the service is terrible but we had a really good experience. the only minor hiccup was that my vegetarian friend ordered leek dumplings and they made the last batch with meat by accident. So, she end up with one appetizer less. However the owner came and apologized, and they caught it before they served it. He was also super nice and helpful in answering her questions since she needed to make sure her food did not have meat/meat-based stock in it. Overall, I would come back again.. and probably get those balls again.
(5)Lola S.
I came here in wet frustration (literally, it was pouring down rain) after getting bad service at another Middle Eastern Restaurant. I should have just came here first! I had the Daal Korma with lamb. It was delicious and I was stuffed by the time I finished it. My only complaint is that I asked for extra bread, and there were only three pieces. But that's probably just me being greedy.
(4)Noel M.
We ordered food from Khyber Pass on BiteSquad recently. I had never had Afghan food before but have eaten other similar cuisines many times. This was delicious. Everything came hot and well packaged. The flavors were distinct and interesting. I would highly recommend this place just based on the food. Cilantro sauce was particularly yummy. My husband and I both really enjoyed it. We will definitely order again and will probably try in person sometime soon.
(5)Shaun J.
I just happened to be in the neighborhood. It's Friday during Lent, so I went with the veggie shola. It was tasty. It didn't look like a lot of food, but I was full by the time I left. They are pleasant and efficient.
(4)Merrill N.
This is one of my all-time favorite places. Their lunch buffet is unreal. The cilantro chutney is out of this world!
(5)Duran G.
The owner and waitress were extremely efficient. The restaurant is pristine, the food is amazing, and I loved the Chai! I will continue to eat here as long as I live! Thank you!
(5)Chandler P.
I'm so glad a friend introduced me to this place. The food was exotic and excellent. We had the chutney sampler and it was perfect: Cherry, Mango and Traditional. That plus an amazing squash appetizer and lamb curry with mung bean. Yum! It was so good that I had them cater my birthday. Go!
(5)Jessica S.
A brief preface. My hometown in NJ has an outstanding Afghan restaurant! Both veggie- and meat-based options are very well-seasoned with cardamom, saffron, and other "exotic" spices., their fragrant rice dishes were leagues ahead of standard basmati, and the naan was always warm and fresh from the tandoor. Needless to say, I had developed high standards for Afghan cooking.... At Khyber Pass, we opted for the Saturday buffet lunch. A head-to-head look at off-menu ordering vs. buffet might be like comparing apples to oranges (which, by the way, happens to be an entirely feasible undertaking). Unfortunately, KP fell a few notches short of the gold standard. The buffet selection was fairly limited with approximately 4 hot stew-like veggie dishes, 3 meat dishes (including kofte/meatballs), naan, a simple salad, hummus, and a custardy cardamom & rose-water dessert. I can tolerate few options, if the offerings are quality. Not the case. The naan didn't strike me as freshly baked; the 4 veggie dishes were nearly indistinguishable in terms of flavor, or lack of; and the kofte was too dry for my liking. A heavier hand with the delicious spices of the Afghan cuisine would make a major difference, as would more effective buffet burners to keep the food sufficiently warm. Given the favorable ratings from other Yelpers, I am clearly an outlier in my initial take on KP. I'm hoping my experience is not representative of their usual performance and they were just having an off day.
(2)Erin O.
I go here with friends sometimes because the food is great and at a good price (don't forget to show school IDs for student discounts!). I brought my grandmother and she could not stop raving about the restaurant atmosphere and the food. It's an awesome winter night destination because it's warm and cozy inside. We both got Murgh Korma, which is a delicious chicken dish served on a bed of basmati rice with potatoes and a small salad on the side (This dish is great for those who are not so adventurous in taste). The portions are great too! There is a free 2 hour parking lot really close and it's close to the neighborhood as well.
(5)Danielle G.
Khyber Pass is so good. It is a great, quick lunch spot, especially for vegetarians. Their lunch buffet (a good price at around $10 - plus you can get a student discount) is super delicious and has mostly veggie options. The food on the buffet could be a little warmer though.
(4)Matt F.
Sweet spot for homage authentic tasty food. Casual and comfortable with high quality ingredients.
(4)Jane E.
My flight was delayed so I had a nice meal with family at this place. We were the first guests to arrive and tried their buffet. The food was delicious and had a homemade quality about it. The interior is tastefully decorated and the family that owns the restaurant is very nice. All in all, a surprising but delicious find!
(4)Rhonda G.
A great place to go to dinner after a reading at Common Goods Bookstore. I got the meatballs with the cilantro chutney sauce. They were tender and delicious. I wasn't crazy about the potatoes. I tasted the spinach and it was odd. It includes an undressed salad on the plate which is just useless. We ordered hummus. Everyone makes it slightly different, and this passed with flying colors. Soda comes in cans. I'm crazy about middle eastern meatballs, and love cilantro. I might get some form of this every time.
(4)Kel K.
Must preface this by saying I was an Afghani food virgin. There was not one soul dining on this wonderful weather Wednesday at noon yet we were pleased with the lamb and hummus plates provided. Only setback or suggestion would be to add a patio. The weather was beautiful and we Minnesotans deserve to sit and worship the sun after the winter (and extended winter) from hell!
(3)M K.
My only trip to this cafe was not a very pleasant experience. The food was very expensive and it was cold like beer. Also the rice seemed to have been under cooked. The atmosphere though was ok at best
(1)Natalie N.
I had never tried Afghani food prior to coming to Khyber Pass, but since my first visit I have been hooked. I have frequented Khyber Pass for the lunch buffet, which offers a great variety of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options. I've tried almost everything the buffet has to offer, and you really can't go wrong with any of it. The food is excellent. The service is great, and the ambiance is casual and cozy. Lovely decor. Prices are also quite reasonable. There is free parking in the adjacent lot (next to Dunn Bros), and also a student discount during the lunch hour if you show your student ID. Khyber Pass is an excellent option for those seeking a delicious, quick lunch. I'm hoping to make it here for dinner soon!
(4)Nimisha D.
I loved the Aushak, so good, and the chutney was yum, wish I could have taken a batch home. Enjoyed the food, the tea was good too. The restaurant was empty on a snowy Tuesday night but don't be put off by a lack of diners, this place is worth a visit!
(3)Sue S.
Only giving one star because zero is not an option. Restaurant is open until 9 according to its door and Yelp. Yet upon arriving at 8:20, the woman disappeared into the back of the house for 5 minutes only to reappear and tell us the kitchen was closed! WTF. We went down the street to give our money to a restaurant that deserves it. #fail
(1)Patti I.
Outstanding food in a comfortable atmosphere. My favorite entree is shola, which is rice and mung beans cooked together. The shola is creamy, filling, and seasoned just right. It's available with lamb (my fave) or as a vegetarian dish. They also offer various kabobs and curries (fairly mild) served on a bed of rice with a light salad of tomatoes, onion, and cilantro on the side--always a refreshing counterpoint. They honored the 20% student discount for our meal even though it was not the buffet hour. :-) The restaurant is not overly decorated, just richly colored walls with Afghan rugs and textiles and light streaming in the windows--very pleasant and serene. I'd give Khyber Pass five stars if we were only talking about food. I have been eating here since it first opened at the corner of Hamline and St. Clair and have returned year after year for the awesome food despite the sometimes spotty and slow service. At my most recent visit, the food knocked our socks off, but we waited 15 minutes for it. This is still a major improvement from the old days when it sometimes took an hour!
(4)Leigh B.
Something a bit different for the vegetarians out there! I'd never had Afghani food before eating here, and I was pleasantly surprised at how much I enjoyed it. I'm a big fan of Indian food, and this was definitely different, but it was a nice change of pace. Quiet, small dining area; all around, a nice neighborhood restaurant.
(5)Chad K.
I went to this restaurant for dinner with a friend from out of town, and I am so glad I did. Everything I tried on this initial visit was excellent. We started with the leek dumplings, which were delicate and flavorful - one of the highlights of the meal. I had the vegetarian plate while my friend had the combination plate. It was a delightful dining experience, and I found the staff friendly and very helpful. I don't know how authentic Afghan it is - but I will definitely be back.
(4)Kara M.
As someone who has previously enjoyed home cooked, authentic Afghan food, let me just say: this place is WONDERFUL and I'm in love. The food was rich and flavorful but not heavy or greasy. The portions were perfect for me but could be bigger. What could have been a bad experience was made right by excellent hospitality on top of good food. I came here with my parents a few weeks back on a Monday night for dinner. The place wasn't crowded but there were a fair number of diners for a Monday. As much as I loved the food, I will admit, you have to do some waiting. As with any truly cultural dining experience, you can not expect a quick meal. It took a little long to get our order placed and it took very long for our food to arrive. Two of the three plates came out at the same time (for my mother and myself) and we decided to wait for the third so we could eat all together. So we waited... and waited... eventually we all started sharing off each others plates because we three were starving. When the food finally arrived the owner apologized profusely and we loved every bite. Although we didn't complain or ask for anything, the owner came by again and offered a free chutney which we gratefully accepted and also enjoyed. I highly recommend ordering chutney with your food as it adds even MORE flavor! Wonderful stuff. Once our meal and chutney was finished, she gave us a FREE dessert as well! We had the most excellent rice pudding I have ever had. All in all, an EXCELLENT dining experience. I can't wait to go again :)
(5)Danica G.
I'm kicking myself for not making it here earlier. Food is terrific, service was great, and there's enough variety to make a return visit different from the last one. Afghani food seems to be surprisingly accessible - think of a cross between Middle East and Indian. Familiar, yet unique. I'd take a not-too-adventurous eater here and would bet they'd enjoy themselves, too.
(5)Phil J.
Having never tried Afghani food this was such an amazing experience. We were greeted very quickly and we had no problem getting a table. Going with recommendations given by our server we tried the Vegetarian Shol and added Spinach. It is the kind of meal you want to savor but can't help eating super fast. so many different new tastes it was a real treat. Daygcha and Baklava for desert and this meal was perfectly rounded off. I will definitely be back again and would highly recommend this as one of your stops in the Twin Cities.
(5)Landon Y.
We went for the lunch buffet today and now it's going to be one of my favorite restaurants. All the food was fresh and delicious. Everything had depth and loads of flavor. Even though it was getting close to the end, they still kept refilling the food. This is a fantastic place, worth checking out. Vegans, vegetarians and meat eaters will all be satisfied.
(5)Joe I.
Ate the buffet lunch here recently...YUM. The food was delicious. Awesome. I can't wait to come back. The restaurant is nicely decorated, and the staff are pleasant. Not five star service, but efficient. I will eagerly return.
(4)David S.
OK, so I'm the friend from Chicago that Chad K.'s talking about. I've got to say that this was one the best meals (beyond my own kitchen) that I've had out in quite a while. I had the Combo #2. The lamb kabobs were a deliciously tender, medium rare, the curried chicken had just the right about of spice for me, the milk pudding was a creamy, sweet, but just light enough finish. Some highlights of the experience - walking into the foyer with the fabulous rugs hanging overhead. The Afghani ambiance was just right. I agree with Chad - I loved the dumpling appetizer. A fun moment of the evening came after being disappointed about not having an Afghan beer on the list, only to have my local "Summit" delivered with the words (and a wry smile) "Your Afghan beer, sir." Does it count if it's delivered by a friendly Afghani waitress? It did for me! I'd climb this pass again!
(4)Mike D.
some truly outstanding dishes are served here -- good for takeout as well
(4)Mark B.
This place had food that tasted amazingly fresh and had great flavor. Our host was welcoming and convinced some people to try something new - for their own good. The prices were very reasonable and the paintings on the wall added to the atmosphere. Definitely recommended.
(5)Sara R.
We love Khyber Pass for a night out. The food is excellent, although the menu does not change much, I can always find something to hit the spot. Emel and his wife are lovely hosts and always very gracious to our son. The lunch buffett is a great deal, but we usually go for dinner. Tip go early they close on the early side.
(4)Ben T.
I have been here a few times and have always enjoyed their food. The location is perfect for Macalester students who want to celebrate completion of a paper or exam and end their studious fast. Also, you might want to check next door at Kinkos for local celebrities! I have a wonderful memory of eating here and then stopping at Kinkos where I saw Garrison Keillor making copies for the Prairie Companion show he hosts! I have come here to have brunch, lunch and dinner and have to say the best meal was the buffet (I believe it's offered on weekends). The lamb dish I ordered was very tender and the side of potatoes went very well with it. I will be back here when I visit Macalester next time!
(4)Ericka A.
I like to go here when I have long lunch breaks between classes. It is perfectly located in the college area and easily accessible by car, foot, bus or ACTC shuttle. They are open for lunch and dinner, but lunch time is when the discounted buffet is served. The menu items are similar to what you would find at a Indian or Middle Eastern restaurant and not very spicy (although you might be able to order something spicy). There is always a good selection of food and you can order a plate if nothing at the buffet looks good. Drinks are plentiful and delicious - I like the mango yogurt drink. Desert has not let me down - baklava is the way to go! Service could be better. The staff tends to forget about you, but it's not too hard to walk up to the register to pay if you don't want to wait forever; however, it can be a pain if you want to order something else or have water refilled.
(4)Ray S.
This is a low review for the fact that the service has been terrible both times I have been. The food is great, the prices fine, but the wait staff have been insulting and desultory when asked the most basic questions. Such as, 45 minutes after ordering,with only two other customers in the restaurant, we asked when our food was coming, the waitress double-taked, rolled her eyes and asked "Are you in a hurry or something?". Please hire better wait staff!
(1)Margaret M.
My husband and I have been eating at the Khyber Pass since it was located on St. Clair Ave. We have never had a bad meal at either location, and have always been pleased with the friendly service. This restaurant is a gem, and we're lucky to have it. I especially love their cilantro chutney and have for years been trying to replicate it at home. Tasty and wholesome food at a reasonable price.
(4)Annette N.
This place is fantastic. Just go. I would not be lying if I said that I could eat here for lunch and dinner every day for the rest of my life. If I squeeze into Paradise, I will be drinking sheer chai like the Khyber Pass' sheer chai for all eternity.
(5)Danna M.
Yum! Don't pass over the leek dumplings. They are delicious.
(4)Ann L.
This restaurant is absolutely amazing! I've never had Afghanistan food before, nor am I a big fan of Middle Eastern restaurants. But this restaurant is by far my favorite and one of the best!!
(5)Christy T.
I was impressed. Came here on an impulse while in town and enjoyed a delicious vegetarian meal. We split two dishes between three people, and it was plenty. Even with the beers, it was a fairly reasonably priced meal. We had the mung beans and the vegetarian sampler (with spinach, eggplant and potatoes). The meal came with plenty of rice, cooling chutney (yum!) and pita-- we asked for more sauce and pita a few times and the waitron was more than happy to accommodate. Sweet! They had a couple of local beer options, which was also nice. I'm not from the Twin Cities, and when I travel, I like to sample the local offerings. Overall, the meal was relaxing, filling and hassle-free. I think if I lived nearby, this might be a go-to place for me.
(4)Jackie L.
I've been a fan of Khyber Pass since they were on St. Clair Avenue. I like the Grand Avenue locale as well, with its understated decor featuring pictures of Afghani people and villages. In short, I've never had a bad meal here. My favorite items are the shola and aushak. They have a decent lunch buffet but I tend to order off the menu when I'm here. Not sure what Afghani food is all about? If you like Indian and Middle Eastern, you will like Afghani food... it's not super spicy but absolutely flavorful. I haven't been back in about a year, so I'm overdue for another visit!
(5)Karthik V.
Great eggplant borani, leek dumplings, chutneys and dogh. The main courses we ordered were very good and nicely spiced. The bread, however, could have been a bit more soft and warmer especially since we pay for it. Overall, a great spot in the St. Paul area!
(4)New T.
I was completely disappointed and disheartened by a lunch buffet visit here, shortly after moving to the neighborhood. I'd hoped this could be a regular destination within walking distance, for a convenient buffet lunch. However, I was made to feel completely unwelcome. I entered with my still-nursed 18-month-old baby. I served myself from the buffet. I created a small condiment dish with a piece of pita bread and yogurt for my baby. I was informed by the manager that my child would receive the "child buffet price", or half the adult price, so $10 for me, and $5 for the baby. When I politely expressed surprise, given that often a child under 2 is welcomed, I was told in a patronizing tone, that "at a buffet meal, everyone pays the same price no matter how much he eats" as though I did not understand the concept of a buffet. I conveyed my surprise and expressed that I'd gladly pay, but that I would not return to the restaurant. I was then given... another 50% discount on my baby's tablespoon of yogurt and bite of bread from my plate! I left $20 and instructed there to be a generous tip for the young waitress, who was very sweet. The food was fine, but given that it was sort of bland and nondescript, at the buffet anyway, I'm not too shattered at the idea of never returning, which I never will! Welcome to the neighborhood!
(1)John L.
Went here for the lunch buffet. I often worry about buffet food being Luke-warm and stagnant, but the entrees were hot and fresh. The flavors weren't a life changing experience for me but quite good and worth going back to check out some of their menu entrees.
(4)Danger H.
Love this place, the food is great, the service is good. The tea is wonderful. OK beer and wine list. We have never had a bad moment here.
(4)Kaiser K.
I'm actually surprised at the good reviews this place is getting here. My experience there was not good at all. Being quite familiar with Afghan cuisine, I have to say that the food there was not traditional at all!!! The bread they served is a very common commercially produced naan/pita you can purchase anywhere served with a mint chutney available at Indian grocery stores. The chai was black tea with tonnes of sugar and its not even the traditional Afghan tea which is infact green tea. Food was way over priced and under seasoned. The rice had too much ghee (traditional butter). None of the elements that make Afghan food so special were there. If only the owner spent more money on food taste and quality rather than interior...
(2)Jennifer W.
The inside is quaint and the waiter was very nice. The Afghan tea was delicious and has free refills! The buffet looked great, but I wasn't that hungry so I ordered eggplant instead. The food took a while to come out, but it was worth the wait. Very delicious!
(4)John J.
We went there this past Saturday for lunch. We relied on the owner's recommendations and were highly satisfied. Flavorful food. Very good hummus and eggplant appetizers.
(4)Waylon W.
Lordy, what a fantastic experience!! I decided to make reservations during Dinning Out for Life and ended up getting the last reservation of the night. We had to wait a little longer than we would have liked after our reserved time, but hey...it was an unusually busy night. The staff was helpful and very welcoming. The food was FANTASTIC. Everyone in our party (5 people) raved about the experienced. The grilled chicken was some of the moist chicken I have ever had. It melted in your mouth. Don't even get me started on the baklava.
(5)James M.
Neat place. I would go again with some friends. This place serves different food and has a nice atmosphere. Not my first choice when observing the local options.
(3)Amanda K.
We had an enjoyable dinner here. Early in the evening, the place was starting to get busy but our server was extremely attentive. The restaurant is cozy and cutely decorated. My husband and I split two of the combination plates; I think if I went again I would just want the lamb kebabs because they were really delicious, but it was fun to try a little of a few different things. Parking is available in the lot next door.
(4)