This traditionally Yemeni dish has been so beloved by the Arabs and everyone else living in the region, that it has practically extended itself as a local dish or an experience to try not just in Yemen, but the rest of the Gulf.

If you’ve lived at ANY GCC country, you’re probably apprised of the many mandi restos that surround and and all cities.

The combo of rice, meat (lamb or chicken) and those spices- along with the bits and bobs of yoghurt, hot sauce, and the mini salad create such a comfy, budget meal that’s always a go-to for everyone.

Recommended

Lovin’ Life With Farhana Bodi: It’s Time To Meet The Real Farhana5 Amazing Shows For The Musical Lover In You!Dubai After Dark: Must-Attend Nightlife Events Happening This Season!

How did Lovin Dubai choose the final list?

• Finalists were selected from all across Dubai
• Online reviews, previous media coverage and notable blogs were also included in the overall rating
• The final list is subjective – if we’ve missed out on any must-try places across Dubai, please do let us know!
• The brand’s social media audience and engagement were considered

10. Saudi Kitchen, Beach Road

Find this spot near Four Seasons in Jumeirah 2 down Beach Road for some awesome, Saudi-style mandi.

Reviews online say their rice and meat dishes, mixed with the salad it comes with, is truly something else. Location is on-point, and this is perfect for bigger families or a group of work colleagues.

The more, the merrier!

Contact on 04 343 3039.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BcEup6RlChf/

9. Cabritoz Mandi, Umm Suqqeim Road

Cabritoz Mandi does things a little differently, and this is quite evident from the get-go.

Not only do they serve mandi and haneeth dishes with a twist- they do it grandly. Most people say the only con to this spot would be its price, in comparison to other mandi restaurants, however; the ambiance, food, friendliness of staff and location more than equate to it.

Contact on 800 62634.

https://www.instagram.com/p/Bj4v5GdhEG5/

8. Al Marhabani, Umm Suqqeim Road

Beach Road, down Umm Suqeim, is one straight drive down to all your gastronomic cravings.

Another mandi resto find in the area is Al Marhabani, equipped with sections for families and singles- this spot is known for having great dakoos sauce to go along with the chicken mandi.

Contact on 04 394 9888.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BsvCGpDABiL/

7. Halla Al Yamama, Marina Walk

There’s no reason those living on the opposite shouldn’t enjoy a scrumptious mandi moment.

And Halla Al Yamama, in Marina Walk, does just that- and includes a range of Middle Eastern sweets and delicacies.

Try it out or you’re missin’ out!

Contact on 800 42552.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwZUrEJpXMp/

6. Madfoon Al Sada, Umm Suqeim

The perfect cheat meal after you’ve been working hard all-week long.

Madfoon Al Sada is ‘a feast, not a meal’- according to Google reviewers who SWEAR by their mandi, madhbi AND mansaf.

Contact on 04 343 5544.

https://www.instagram.com/p/keO_qZRlbE/

5. Noor Al Mandi, several branches

This Yemenite restaurant has great space for all types of foodies, but you’ve to strategically go at an early time- before all the meat is sold out. Most of Noor Al Mandi’s branches are loved for its version of the madfhoon mandi, which means the chicken or meat is cooked in the slowest way- wrapped in aluminium and placed in a pit, covered with coal.

Contact on 04 239 0700.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BrGedYVgWkm/

4.  Ahl Al Mandi, Al Nahda

Two word: date kunafa.

Apart from their ridiculously delicious mandi, the date kunafa is a definite must-try!

Head to the ground floor of Al Ahli building and live your bestest life.

Contact on 04 257 4448.

https://www.instagram.com/p/lZWtcrkFLi/

3. Zam Zam Mandi Restaurant, Al Karama

Always crowded on Fridays, Zam Zam has created an iconic status for itself in Karama.

The soup, main dish and having sweets after you’re done chowing down on rice and chicken = the stuff of dreams.

Contact on 04 370 6777.

https://www.instagram.com/p/ByNclvbJE5s/

2. Bait Al Mandi, several branches

Another popular fave among residents is Bait Al Mandi, the resto that is hard to miss since it is spread across the city.

The hygiene, way the food is cooked, presentation and friendliness of the staff here is something they’re known for.

Sit on the floor in a private-ish room, or a table if you prefer eating with utensils. Either way, the affordability and perfect taste is bound to get you coming back for more.

Contact on 04 330 7777.

https://www.instagram.com/p/B2O9JoTFnGa/

1. Maraheb, several branches

A lot of people on the Lovin Dubai poll voted for Maraheb as their #1 spot, so they must be doing something right.

With several branches across the Emirate, Maraheb is known for bringing the authentic Yemenite flavour to each dish. The kabsa rice is also another favourite, while the haneeth is said to top of their entire menu.

“Cooked to perfection.”

Contact on 04 346 9996.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BoV1HWwBdhA/