Last Saturday night after seeing “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” at the Grandview Theater in St. Paul, Kyle and I were hungry. Just down on Grand Avenue a short distance was Khyber Pass Cafe, a perfect place for a late night dinner. I really had no expectations for Khyber Pass, as I had never had Afghani food, but I was looking forward to it.
Walking in, I was instantly impressed with the crowd. It was about 9:00 on a Saturday night and most of the tables were filled (always a good sign). We waited just a few minutes and then were shown to a table in the larger dining area. I sat and then looked around to take it all in. Khyber Pass’s decor has a very traditional, yet at the same time, contemporary feeling. Painted a creamy white, the walls are adorned beautifully with a row of colorful photographs from Afghanistan near the tables and another row of abstract, colorful paintings further up near the ceiling (unfortunately my picture doesn’t capture this well). Hanging from the ceiling and the back wall are traditional woven rugs and women’s dresses. The decoration is subtle, yet distinct, and it creates a wonderful sense of balance.
I was settled in and ready to explore the menu. We were wanting a light meal, so we decided to go for the cilantro chutney and then the vegetarian combination plate of eggplant, lentils and potatoes to share. The cilantro chutney arrived quickly and was tangy and delicious. Soon after we received our vegetarian plate and I was pleasantly surprised that it was served with a tomato, onion and cucumber salad. I had expected some spiciness to the food, but found that this was not the case at all. Instead, the flavors were mellow but rich. This subtlety in flavors paired with the zippy tomato, onion and cucumber salad was really quite good. Overall I really enjoyed Khyber Pass and I look forward to another visit.
Oh, and by the way, “Nick and Norah’s Infinite Playlist” is a fantastic movie. It’s short, funny and has a great soundtrack (obviously). Thank you to my friend Jeff at The Scorecard Review for talking us out of our previous movie choice!
Kyber Pass Cafe
1571 Grand Avenue
St. Paul, MN
651.690.0505
Posted on October 9th, 2008 by katiejocannon
Filed under: Food
This place sounds great - I’m adding it to our list.
It’s nice to know some Minnesotans still go to the movie theater … Ed, I’m looking in your direction.
I haven’t seen it yet, but two of my writers really liked Body of Lies for this weekend’s pic.
- Jeff
Food looks so delicious and colorful. Want to try it when we are in Minni.
I’m game for going back there when you visit….when will it be?