The aroma of spiced rice and slow-cooked meat fills the air, promising a meal that’s both hearty and unforgettable. A mandi restaurant in Abu Dhabi is the perfect place to enjoy this traditional Yemeni dish, beloved for its tender meat, fragrant rice, and rich, aromatic flavours.
Loved by families, friends, and food enthusiasts alike, a plate of mandi is more than just a meal; it’s a shared experience, full of warmth, generous portions, and rich, aromatic flavours that linger long after the last bite.
In this guide, we explore the top mandi restaurant Abu Dhabi has to offer in 2025, covering signature dishes, dining atmospheres, menu highlights, and tips for making the most of your visit, whether you’re dining in, grabbing takeaway, or ordering delivery.
- What to expect when visiting a mandi restaurant in Abu Dhabi
- Top 12 mandi restaurants in Abu Dhabi 2025
- Tips for the best Mandi experience
- Comparing Mandi restaurants in Abu Dhabi
- Key takeaways
- FAQs
What to expect when visiting a mandi restaurant in Abu Dhabi
When stepping into a top‑rated mandi restaurant in Abu Dhabi, here’s what you can expect:
- Aromatic rice: Basmati or similar long‑grain rice, spiced with cardamom, cloves, cinnamon and saffron, cooked in the same pot as the meat to absorb all the juices.
- Tender meat: Lamb or chicken (and occasionally seafood or fish) slow‑cooked or tandoor‑roasted until it falls off the bone.
- Accompaniments: Light salad, yoghurt, spicy tomato‑based sauce, and often complimentary tea or luqaimat (sweet dumplings) at the end.
- Dine-in atmosphere: Many restaurants cater to families and groups, offering generous platters for sharing. Booking ahead at peak times is wise.
- Delivery & Takeaway: For groups or quick meals, many mandi restaurants also offer take-away or app-based delivery
Top 12 mandi restaurants in Abu Dhabi 2025
Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of mandi restaurants, each offering its own unique take on this beloved Yemeni dish. From traditional flavours to modern twists, these 12 restaurants stand out in 2025 for their quality, portions, and dining experience, making it easy to find the perfect spot for a hearty, shared meal.
1. Al Mandi & Al Madhbi House
Al Mandi & Al Madhbi House is widely recognised for its authentic Arabian-Yemeni cuisine, offering both mandi and madhbi in multiple branches. Patrons praise the tender meat and friendly ambience.
Location
It is located in Musaffah – M37 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 10:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact information
2. Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant
Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant is a favourite for whole mutton mandi and its generous portions. Their presentation remains traditional, and the venue is known for its value and authenticity.
Location
It is located in Khaleefa city – Khalifa City – Sector 32 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 10:30 AM – 12:30 AM
Contact information
3. Najd Palace
Najd Palace is renowned for its extensive Arabic menu, featuring roasted camel, plentiful feasts, and a family-friendly setting.
Location
It is located in Ministries Complex, Next to the Ministry of Labour – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 2:00 AM
Contact information
4. Marhaba Mandi Restaurant in Abu Dhabi
At Marhaba Mandi, you’ll find massive portions, mixed grills and value meals built for family dining. Their meat madfoon and tikka mandi dishes are particular highlights.
Location
It is located in 17 Yidha‘ St – Al Hisn – W4 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 11:00 AM – 12:30 AM
Contact information
5. Sajway
Sajway stands out for its authenticity, high-quality ingredients and cosy, traditional ambience in Al Zahiyah. They serve lamb, chicken, and vegetarian mandi options, making it a versatile choice.
Location
It is located in Al Zahiyah – E13 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 11:45 PM
Contact information
6. Al Janoob Mandi Restaurant in Abu Dhabi
Al Janoob Mandi Restaurant has built a strong reputation in Musaffah for consistent flavour and hospitality.
Location
It is located in Musaffah – M4 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Contact information
+971 2 555 6556
7. Hajrain Restaurant & Kitchen
Hajrain Restaurant & Kitchen offers casual dining with authentic flavours, and is well‑rated for service and value.
Location
It is located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City – ME11 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact information
8. Besbas Express Restaurant
Besbas specialises in Gulf and Yemeni cuisine, with mandi and grilled meats forming the focal point of its menu.
Location
It is located in Bani Yas St – Bani Yas – Baniyas East – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:30 AM – 12:00 AM
Contact information
9. Emirates Spring Mandi Restaurant & Kitchen
Emirates Spring Mandi Restaurant & Kitchen brings generous portions and authentic spices to the table, a great choice if you’re craving a hearty mandi.
Location
It is located in Al Falah St – Al Danah – Zone 1 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 9:00 AM – 11:30 PM
Contact information
10. Nar Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant in Abu Dhabi
Nar Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant delivers spicy mandi options and excellent rice texture, a favourite among rice lovers in Al Bahyah.
Location
It is located in Al Bahyah – Al Bahyah Old – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 8:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Contact information
11. Rashid Al Zaabi Mandi Restaurant
Rashid AlZaabi Mandi Restaurant offers flavour-packed lamb mandi and value for money in a simple setting, ideal for a casual yet satisfying meal.
Location
It is located in Al Zahiyah – E16 02 – Abu Dhabi
Opening hours
Daily: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
Contact information
12. Mandi Al Watani
Mandi Al Watani is a lesser‑known gem offering classic mandi in the Mussafah area, perfect if you’re looking to explore beyond the main city centre spots.
Location
It is located in Mohamed Bin Zayed City – ME11 – Abu Dhabi
Opening Hours
Daily :11:00 AM – 12:00 AM
Contact information
Tips for the best Mandi experience
To make the most of your mandi experience, a few simple tips can go a long way. From planning ahead with reservations to choosing the right dishes and dining style, these suggestions will help ensure every meal is enjoyable, flavourful, and stress-free.
- Reservation advice: Popular spots get busy during peak hours and weekends. Booking ahead helps.
- Ideal for groups: Sharing a large platter often gives better value than individual servings.
- Dress comfortably: Mandi’s meals are hearty and leisurely. Relax, enjoy and plan time to savour the meal.
- Ask about specials: Some restaurants offer seasonal or off-menu dishes (whole lamb, camel, seafood mandi), worth inquiring about.
- Compare delivery vs dine-in: If you prefer ordering in, verify the delivery reliability and packaging, as rice dishes may lose their texture if delayed.
Comparing Mandi restaurants in Abu Dhabi
To help you quickly compare the top mandi restaurant Abu Dhabi options, here’s an overview highlighting what each is best known for and the type of service they offer.
| Restaurant Name | Known For |
| Al Mandi & Al Madhbi House | Lamb/Chicken Mandi, Madhbi |
| Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant | Mutton/Chicken Mandi |
| Najd Palace | Camel roast, Lamb Mandi |
| Marhaba Mandi | Mix grill, Meat Madfoon |
| Sajway | Lamb/Chicken/Vegetarian Mandi |
| Al Janoob Mandi Restaurant | Variety of meat and rice selections |
| Hajrain Restaurant & Kitchen | Authentic flavours, casual dining |
| Besbas Express Restaurant | Mandi and grilled meats |
| Emirates Spring Mandi Restaurant & Kitchen | Hearty portions, authentic spices |
| Nar Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant | Spicy mandi options, excellent rice texture |
| Rashid Al Zaabi Mandi Restauran | Flavour-packed lamb mandi |
| Mandi Al Watani | Classic mandi |
Key takeaways
Abu Dhabi is home to a variety of excellent mandi restaurants, offering everything from local favourites to authentic gourmet experiences. Visiting a mandi restaurant Abu Dhabi is best enjoyed with family or friends, as many serve generous sharing platters perfect for group dining. Signature dishes feature tender, slow-cooked meats and aromatic rice, creating a meal that’s both hearty and satisfying.
To ensure a smooth visit, booking ahead is recommended, especially during peak hours. Whether you choose to dine in, take away, or order delivery, Abu Dhabi’s top mandi restaurants promise an authentic and flavourful Yemeni experience in 2025.
FAQs
Mandi is a traditional Arabian rice dish with tender meat (often lamb or chicken) cooked with aromatic spices and served over fragrant rice.
Some restaurants, like Sajway, offer vegetarian mandi options, but meat remains the traditional centerpiece.
Typical extras include salad, yogurt, spicy tomato sauce, and sometimes complimentary tea or luqaimaat (sweet dumplings).
It’s highly recommended, especially at popular spots and on weekends when demand is high.
Yes, most venues provide large sharing platters, ideal for groups and families.
