Khyber Pass: 30 Years of Afghan Tradition on Plateau Mont-Royal
In the kitchen of the Khyber Pass restaurant, recipes exist only as oral traditions. For 30 years, the aromas of cumin, coriander and cardamom have filled this Plateau Mont-Royal establishment, where authentic Afghan cuisine rises to the level of culinary art.
You'll find it on Duluth Street, and this family restaurant perpetuates a millennial heritage with the same fervour that inspired the owners when they first opened.
Faruk Ramisch's Adventure: From Dream to Reality
The adventure began in 1995, when Faruk Ramisch first opened his restaurant at the corner of Rachel and Saint-Denis streets. Over the years, several Afghan women who had recently arrived found their place on the team. Working at the restaurant became a way for them to integrate, learn the language, build a network and regain their footing in a new environment.
Today, the family remains involved in the project, preserving the restaurant's original spirit. Faruk remains very present, visiting the restaurant several times a year, and the loyal clientele, who appreciate him enormously, warmly welcome his presence. This continuity permeates everything, from the welcome to the dishes prepared according to his original methods.
The restaurant's very name carries this philosophy of openness and exchange. "The name Khyber Pass refers to a well-known passage between Afghanistan and Pakistan. It's a symbol of openness, of exchange," they explain. A deliberate choice by Faruk, who wanted his establishment to become, in turn, a place of meeting and discovery.
Daily Preservation of Expertise
Khyber Pass's philosophy rests on authenticity. The dishes served faithfully reproduce the meals enjoyed in Afghan homes, without adaptation or compromise. Faruk continues to perfect his preparations, jealously guarding in memory the secrets of these recipes passed down from generation to generation.
Each morning, the Afghan women busily craft traditional recipes with meticulous care. This division of labour respects customs: preparation falls to the women, whilst the men take over for cooking during service. This organization preserves the authenticity of gestures and flavours.
Among the clientele's favourites are homemade soup and mantoo, those delicious Afghan ravioli. Not to mention the crispy sambossa with generous flavours.
On the vegetarian side, options abound, and they are increasingly seducing enthusiasts, thus demonstrating the little-known richness of this Afghan tradition.
The particularity of Khyber Pass's Afghan preparations lies in their perfect balance: spices bring their warm fragrances without overwhelming the palate. This respectful approach to flavours seduces even the most sensitive palates.
The generous portions naturally invite sharing: selecting several dishes and sharing them around the table quickly become a habit.
An Atmosphere That Transports
The atmosphere of the Khyber Pass Afghan restaurant instantly invites travel. Raw materials such as wood harmonize with tablecloths in brilliant hues, whilst a multitude of artisanal objects imported directly from Afghanistan dot the space, thus adding a touch of authenticity.
Once you cross the threshold, the scent of fragrant rice and sweet spices overwhelms you, instantly awakening your appetite and foreshadowing the delights to come.
The summer terrace adds a dimension particularly appreciated by regulars. Cool summer evenings take on a distinctive flavour in this little haven of peace, where conversations naturally extend over the last sips of Afghan tea.
Moving stories frequently emerge from the restaurant's social media. One tells how a server cared for a child during a business meal, taking him to the kitchen to show him how dishes are prepared. Another evokes that memorable evening when cousins discovered Afghan flavours on the terrace, even sharing their wine with the staff, who then showed them how to prepare real Afghan coffee.
For large groups, a private dining room seating around forty can be reserved on request, hosting celebrations and special events in intimacy.
The Art of Afghan Hospitality at Khyber Pass
Khyber Pass's clientele largely consists of loyal customers who have frequented the establishment for more than two decades. This loyalty testifies to the consistency of quality, but also to the warmth of welcome. The team explains dishes to newcomers, guiding their first steps in this little-known cuisine.
The abundant portions testify to traditional Afghan hospitality. After your visit, you'll often leave with a small bag containing your meal's leftovers, thus prolonging the pleasure at home. This family approach also extends to takeaway services whilst preserving the original quality.
The "bring your wine" principle reinforces this relaxed and accessible atmosphere of this Afghan restaurant on Plateau Mont-Royal. It allows groups of friends and families to savour unique culinary experiences together according to their taste preferences. This "bring your wine" formula particularly appeals to clientele who appreciate the freedom to choose their pairings according to their tastes.
A Living Heritage
For 30 years now, Khyber Pass has evolved and renewed itself, whilst remaining faithful to its original identity.
Afghan spices composed of cumin, coriander, cardamom and saffron continue to perfume preparations according to traditional dosages. Each dish tells a story - that of a heritage preserved with passion and shared with generosity.
During this summer period conducive to discoveries, Khyber Pass invites you to escape for the length of a meal towards the flavours of Afghanistan. Hospitality remains a fundamental value there, reflecting the warm and welcoming soul of this country.
