When Khyber first opened in 1958, the dining scene in Mumbai was quite different from what it is today. Located in Mumbai’s lively Fort area, Khyber has been serving its patrons for more than six decades. The restaurant is known for its traditional Indian recipes, passed down through generations. From the very beginning, Khyber positioned itself as a high-end dining experience, attracting not just the local elite but also international patrons.
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Khyber gained global recognition for its exceptional hospitality and menu, which carefully balanced authenticity with modern flair. It became a go-to spot for high-profile guests, including heads of state, movie stars, and business tycoons. Celebrities like Sir Paul McCartney, Richard Gere, Amitabh Bachchan, Demi Moore, Shakira, Shah Rukh Khan have and Brad Pitt have all dined at Khyber.
What Makes Khyber Special?
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One of the first things that stand out about Khyber is its interior decor. The restaurant transports diners back to the Mughal era, with its earthy tones, rustic stone walls, antique woodwork, and intricate Mughal-style paintings done by eminent artists like Anjolie Ela Menon. The art on the walls depicts traditional scenes from Mughal history. The copper artefacts and lantern-style lighting add to the old-world charm, making it an immersive experience for those who appreciate historical aesthetics.
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Khyber’s interior was designed to reflect not only India’s rich past but also the region after which it is named. The Khyber Pass, the ancient mountain pass that connects Afghanistan and Pakistan, was historically significant for its role in trade and cultural exchange. The restaurant’s design draws inspiration from the architecture and cultural richness of that region.
What To Order At Khyber
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The highlight of Khyber is undoubtedly its food. The restaurant is celebrated for its Mughlai and North Indian dishes, which are prepared using traditional cooking techniques and high-quality ingredients. The chefs at Khyber stay true to the age-old recipes that originated in the royal kitchens of the Mughals, yet they are always innovating to keep the menu fresh and exciting.
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Khyber is famous for its kebabs, which are marinated in rich spices and grilled to perfection in the tandoor (a traditional clay oven). Popular options include Murgh Malai Kebab, Seekh Kebabs (minced meat kebabs with robust spices, and the signature Tandoori Raan (whole leg of lamb slow-cooked in the tandoor). These kebabs are celebrated for their tenderness and the smoky flavour.
Some of Khyber’s other standout dishes include the Butter Chicken, the e Rogan Josh, a lamb curry with a Kashmiri influence, and Paneer Makhani along with the Dum Biryani, Dal Khyber and Baingan Bharta which was ordered by Brad Pitt.
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No meal at Khyber is complete without indulging in its array of desserts. The restaurant’s Kulfi, Gulab Jamun and Phirni are very popular.
Staying Relevant
What makes Khyber unique is not just its exceptional food but the entire dining experience. The staff is known for its warm hospitality, and the attention to detail is evident in every aspect of the service.
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The restaurant’s location in the heart of South Mumbai Khyber is nestled among colonial-era buildings and the bustle of the city’s commercial hub. Over the years, Khyber has significantly influenced Mumbai’s culinary landscape. It set the standard for fine dining in the city, introducing both locals and visitors to the richness of North Indian and Mughlai flavours. Its ability to maintain consistency in quality and service has allowed it to stand the test of time, even as new restaurants emerge in the city.
In an era where fusion and contemporary cuisine are taking over, Khyber remains a proud bastion of traditional Indian cooking. It offers a taste of nostalgia while maintaining its relevance, making it a landmark in Mumbai’s ever-evolving restaurant scene.
The Price For Two At Khyber
A meal for two at Khyber will typically cost between ₹3,000 to ₹4,000, depending on what you order. This estimate includes appetisers, main courses, and desserts, along with taxes and service charges. The cost may vary based on your choice of dishes, drinks, and any additional services. Given the restaurant's premium location and reputation, it is considered a high-end dining experience.