Whether you’re a tourist in the UAE or a resident, nothing says traditional Arabian food better than a plate of mandi rice. Luckily for the capital, there’s no dearth of spots dishing out plate after plate of the best mandi in Abu Dhabi.
From small hole-in-the-wall eateries in the heart of the capital to some pretty fancy restaurants offering their unique interpretations of mandi rice, there’s so much variety to try.
What is mandi rice?
For the uninitiated, Mandi is a traditional Arabian dish that is said to have originated from the Hadhramaut region in Yemen. Essentially, it’s a massive plate of rice with the most tenderly cooked meat atop it, all marinated in a blend of spices and then cooked long and slow in a pit.
The word Mandi itself derives from the Arabic word for dew, which speaks to the moist and juicy meat you can expect to feast on. Also traditionally a sharing dish, you can get mandi with lamb, chicken and even beef. Mandi rice is more commonly consumed in most areas of the Arabian Peninsula and also found in Egypt, Hyderabad Deccan, the Levant, Turkey, Kerala and Southeast Asia.
In each region, locals add their own take and flavours to the dish in terms of spices used, condiments it is served with, etc. Commonly, you’ll find a tangy tomato sauce called Zahawig and a simple vegetable salad.
If that’s got you drooling for a plate of mandi rice yourself – here are some of the most highly rated spots for the best mandi in Abu Dhabi.
8 spots for the best mandi in Abu Dhabi
Al Mandi & Madhbi House, Abu Dhabi
If you’re looking for the ultimate mandi in Abu Dhabi, or even madhbi for that matter, this one’s a no-brainer.
Having perfected both Emirati staples, the menu also offers delicious meat curries, grilled seafood, delightful desserts and more!
With multiple branches across the capital, sample both to taste the subtle difference in dishes. Each bite is sure to leave you drooling for more. Be sure to wear some comfy clothes for dining here, and thank us later.
Details:
For reservations, call 02 586 5452
Timings: 10 am to 11:30 pm
Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant
Ask anyone for the best mandi in Abu Dhabi, and 9/10 times, they might just tell you Zam Zam! The sight of a whole mutton on mandi rice is something that’s definitely a traditional Arabic experience in Abu Dhabi.
You can also choose from several other options, including seafood varieties, traditional chicken and even charcoal mandi options. Pair it with some refreshing drinks for the ultimate experience!
Details:
For reservations, call +971 2 556 6575
Timings: 10 am to midnight
Najd Palace
Located smack dab in the bustling city, this one’s a crowd favourite when it comes to the best mandi in Abu Dhabi. They’ve also got a pretty comprehensive menu that features all the traditional arabic staples, including different types of hummus with meat, kibbeh, family meals, kunafah and more.
For feasts and special events, you could even spring for the camel! That’s right, an entire camel (or up to your choosing) is just one of the different meats you could sample here, along with some delicious mandi rice. You will definitely have something new to experience here with each visit!
Details:
For reservations, call +971 2 491 3336
Timings: 11 am to midnight
Marhaba Mandi
One of the best things about having mandi for your meal is the massive portion sizes. This restaurant certainly doesn’t disappoint, and you don’t even have to break out the big bucks for such amazing quality.
Choose from a wide variety, including mix grill mandi, chicken tikka mandi, fried hammour mandi, and so many more. The Meat Madfoon here is extremely highly rated, but we’d recommend opting for a family meal so you can try a variety of rice and meats. Definitely one you don’t want to miss!
Details:
For reservations, call +971 54 307 9161
Timings: 11 am to midnight
Saudi Kitchen
This one’s delivering a feast fit for the kings at a bargain! Around since 2005, the restaurant has been dishing out an array of authentic, home-cooked Gulf dishes for two decades now. And you know they’re doing something right with 12 branches across the emirates.
Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a gathering with family and friends, Saudi Cuisine is your destination for genuine flavours and warm hospitality. Championing fresh ingredients across the menu, you know you’re in for a treat with the mandi rice available here.
Details:
For reservations, visit Saudi Kitchen
Timings: 11 am to midnight
Nasser Restaurant
An Indian restaurant on a list of traditional Arabian food? That’s the diversity of mandi rice for you! Typically dishing out Keralite fare, Nasser Restaurant serves up generous portions of what is locally known as kuzhu mandi, which is the South Asian/expat take on the meal.
Choose from chicken and mutton options; you can’t go wrong with either. You could also try the Chicken Madhbi while you’re at it!
Details:
For reservations, visit +971 2 621 0482
Timings: 6 am to 2 am
Yemeni Dish Restaurant
If this is where mandi rice as a concept originated from, it’s unsurprising that an authentic Yemeni restaurant has made it to the list!
The relatively nondescript spot has been around for years now, serving up a small but delicious menu of traditional Arabian food to generations in the UAE. If you’re new to the capital or simply looking to treat yourself to a delectable meal that doesn’t break the bank, definitely check this restaurant out ASAP.
Details:
For reservations, visit +971 2 665 6114
Timings: 8 am to midnight
Rashid Al Zaabi Mandi
Everyone who’s eaten at Rashid Al Zaabi Mandi will tell you that it’s an extremely affordable spot. Imagine a whole plate of delicious mandi rice and meat for just AED 21?
If you see scores of delivery riders or taxi drivers eating from this restaurant, that’s an automatic stamp of credibility when it comes to the best mandi in Abu Dhabi. Add to your list of spots to visit in the emirate if you’re looking for something rustic and authentic.
Details:
For reservations, visit +971 50 975 2611
Timings: 10 am to 11 pm
FAQs about the Best Mandi in Abu Dhabi
Is mandi good for health?
Don’t let the massive portions fool you; mandi is generally considered a healthy dish. If you’re looking for high-protein meals especially, the dish is cooked with minimal oil and a blend of spices known for their health benefits. And it also comes with a salad, so you can just be mindful of portions to better optimise the health factor.
Which country has the best mandi?
This one’s a debate for the ages, because those from Yemen (where the dish originated) will always tell you it’s the best. However, the best thing about mandi is that it’s not easily available and accessible, with each different region having put their uniquely delicious twist on it.
Are there other must-eat traditional Arabian foods apart from mandi rice?
Too many to count! But if you’re in the UAE capital, apart from the best mandi in Abu Dhabi you should also try sampling some Chabab, Regag, Thareed, Harees, Kunafah (of course!) and even Machboos (which is similar to Mandi but with more meat, vegetables and spices).