Khyber Pass Club, it’s funny how so much of my time in Hong Kong revolved around the Chungking Mansion, which I wrote about after my last visit. At the time I said I wouldn’t return to the murder capital of the city. Spoiler alert: I did.
Do you want to change money? The best rates are in the Chungking Mansion. Cheapest shopping? You guessed it, the Chungking Mansion.
I started out my trip in another hotel paying triple what I paid at the Chungking. I ended up moving back because the room was as small as the one in the infamous building. Actually, this time the room was as nice or possibly nicer than the one I was paying three times as much for. It was recently renovated so it felt brand new. Sure it was behind a door labeled “Fire Escape” and didn’t appear to have proper licensing but whatever. It was clean and the wifi was fast.
When I was coming and going I noticed a door labeled Khyber Pass Club: Members Only. I didn’t really give it much thought. Members-only? Maybe it’s a brothel, given the building we were in. Not my business.
One night as I passed by the door was cracked open and I could hear voices coming from inside. So, because I’m nosey, I peeked in. I saw a crowded room full of people eating. There were even a few foreign faces in the crowd. I decided to investigate the Khyber- Pass Club.
Apparently, to my surprise, the Khyber-Pass Club is not a brothel. Instead, it’s a members-only Indian restaurant. The limited information that I found out about it online seemed to be overwhelmingly positive. Some even called it the best Indian food in Hong Kong. The owner was named the King of Curry and has been interviewed in magazines and featured on television. Obviously, I had to investigate.
Although the members-only requirement felt somewhat intimidating it turned out to be more of a formality. A quick application where no information was verified and you’re approved. The membership card also apparently entitles you to a discount on future visits.
Now, the important part: the food. The food was good but not amazing. The prices were fair, standard even. I had an Indian chicken curry dish (68 HKD/$8.75 USD) with rice and a Kingfisher beer. Would I eat here again? Yes. Would I call it the best Indian food in Hong Kong? Probably not.
At the end of the day, this place is better for a story than a meal. It’s pretty cool to say I’m now a Khyber Pass-carrying member of a secret restaurant located in the Chungking Mansion. When you’re in Hong Kong I would say it’s worth a visit, especially if you’re not on a rushed trip.
Practical Information
The Khyber Pass is located on the 7th floor of Block E in the Chungking Mansion. The restaurant only accepts cash.
Would you try dining at the Khyber Pass Club? Let me know in the comments section below!
Travel writer and owner of the blog. My work has been featured on Fodors, Eater.com, International Living, and Great Escape Publishing, among many others. My story? Nearly six years ago, I left my job at an Oklahoma City law firm and embarked on a journey around the world. At the time, I thought I would only be gone for 6 months, but the more I traveled, the longer my bucket list became. Flashpacker describes how I travel. Rather than traveling as the normal world wise backpacker and staying in hostel dorms, I prefer a more comfortable experience, and typically stay in private rooms, take Ubers instead of taxis, and now use a suitcase instead of a backpack. Foodie, on the other hand, describes one of the key reasons why I travel. I love to pick a central “base camp” and then explore the surrounding area, really immersing myself in the culture and interacting with the people, and enjoying and exploring the food of an area is an essential part of this experience.
Sandy N Vyjay
Tuesday 20th of June 2017
The name Khyber Pass coupled with the tag of "Members Only", did sound intriguing. I was expecting some sort of secret society meeting behind the ominous looking door. The fact that it turned out to be an Indian restaurant was a damper to my mind geared up for some "suspense and adventure". Unfortunately, as you mention the food is nothing great. But still I may like to check it out on my next visit to those parts.
Nathan
Thursday 22nd of June 2017
The food wasn't bad, it just wasn't as great as they hype, if that makes sense! I would go back. It was an overall interesting experience for sure.
Sahar
Friday 17th of June 2016
I wouldn't have entered it at all. Glad you did it and found out a secret dining place. And because you said food was not that good I do not feel very good about these foods but the pictures are awesome. The naan and the curry looks delicious..
Paul
Monday 30th of May 2016
That sounds like an awesome experience, I would love to try this place out as Indian food is one of my favourites, thanks for sharing.
Stella the Travelerette
Saturday 28th of May 2016
That's a really funny story. I've never heard of a members only Indian restaurant! There's a lot of cheap Indian food here in New York City, so I'm sure I've had worse Indian food than this restaurant. Maybe I will give it a try some day!
Nathan
Saturday 28th of May 2016
You should! If you're in Hong Kong it makes for a great story/experience!
Tom Stevenson
Wednesday 25th of May 2016
Hmm, bit strange why the restaurant is effectively a secret club. Food looks great though!