Top 10 Places to Savor Authentic Mandi in Qatar

Qatar’s vibrant dining scene offers a multitude of flavors from across the Middle East, with mandi—a traditional rice and meat dish—gaining significant popularity. 
Originally from Yemen, mandi is distinguished by its aromatic rice, tender meats, and a unique blend of spices. 
Here are ten must-visit places in Qatar for the best mandi experience, each bringing its unique touch to the beloved dish.

1. Afghan Brothers Restaurant
Afghan Brothers is a well-known family-operated restaurant chain in Qatar, celebrated for its authentic Arabic mandi. Their traditional approach involves slow-cooking lamb and chicken in spices, creating a rich, flavorful dish that’s highly favored by locals and tourists alike. Afghan Brothers maintains an inviting ambiance that highlights traditional Qatari decor, making it a perfect spot for those looking to experience an authentic taste of the region?.
Location: Multiple locations
Timings:11:00 AM - 01:00 AM
Phone Number: +974 4481 7505

2. Maraheb Restaurant
Maraheb Mandi Restaurant is a top choice if you're craving Yemeni-inspired flavors. Known for its homestyle ambiance, this restaurant serves a distinctive version of mandi with charcoal-grilled chicken, adding a smoky flavor to the dish. Maraheb also offers a variety of seafood dishes alongside their classic meat mandi, making it ideal for diners who enjoy a broader menu?.
Location: Khalifa St, Doha 
Timings:11:00 AM - 01:00 AM
Phone Number: +974 4004 6188

3. Nahdi Mandi Restaurant
Nahdi Mandi is a favorite among mutton and chicken mandi enthusiasts. This restaurant’s unique underground cooking technique produces mandi with tender, flavorful meat and rice that soaks up the spices. Nahdi offers traditional majlis-style seating, allowing diners to enjoy their meal in an authentic, family-friendly atmosphere?.
Location: Multiple locations
Timings:11:00 AM - 11:00 PM
Phone Number: +974 3143 4477 

4. Bab Al Mandi Restaurant
Bab Al Mandi has become popular for its reasonably priced and high-quality chicken mandi. Situated in multiple locations, this restaurant is an excellent choice for large groups and families seeking a budget-friendly yet satisfying meal. Bab Al Mandi’s menu also includes various Qatari and Arabian BBQ dishes, adding diversity for diners with different preferences?.
Location: Multiple locations
Timings:10:30 AM - 03:00 AM
Phone Number: +974 4443 2255  

5. Mandi Damascus Restaurant
This cozy restaurant combines an inviting, homey decor with a flavorful mandi menu. Mandi Damascus uses a blend of spices for slow-cooked chicken and lamb mandi, making each bite rich and aromatic. Besides mandi, their menu includes kebabs, grills, and mezze, appealing to those who enjoy a variety of Middle Eastern dishes?.
Location: Salwa Road
Timings: 24 hrs
Phone Number: +974 4493 0060

6. Soofi Mandi
Located in Wakra and Aziziya, Soofi Mandi brings a modern twist to the classic dish. With menu options like Green Chilly Alfaham Chicken, Soofi offers a spicy variation for those who appreciate a kick of heat. The restaurant’s ambiance and wide range of options make it a popular choice for gatherings and family meals?.
Location: Multiple Location
Timings: 11:00 AM - 11: 30 PM
Phone Number: +974 4001 3190

7. Hadramout Mandi
For a unique Hadramout-style mandi, head to Hadramout Mandi. Specializing in Yemeni cuisine, this restaurant is known for generous portions and a distinct, aromatic flavor profile. Hadramout Mandi captures the traditional cooking techniques from the Hadramout region of Yemen, making it a standout for those seeking authenticity?.
Location: Al Gharrafa
Timings:05:30 AM - 11:30 PM
Phone Number: +974 4441 5002  

8. White Palace Resturant
White Palace Restaurant in Doha is a popular choice for authentic mandi, offering flavorful chicken and lamb options cooked with rich spices. Its spacious setting is perfect for families, and the menu also features a mix of Arabic and Indian dishes, appealing to various tastes in a welcoming atmosphere. Its welcoming atmosphere and focus on quality have made it a staple among food enthusiasts in Qatar, consistently delivering an enjoyable dining experience that highlights the best of Middle Eastern cuisine.
Location: Ain Khaled Street, Ain Khaled
Timings:10:00 AM - 02:00 AM
Phone Number: +974 4037 9604

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9. Bandar Aden
Bandar Aden is a popular Yemeni restaurant in Doha, known for its authentic dishes like mandi and saltah. The restaurant features cozy, majlis-style seating, creating an inviting atmosphere. With its flavorful meats and aromatic rice, Bandar Aden is a favorite among locals and visitors seeking traditional Yemeni cuisine in Qatar.
Location: Souq Waqif
Timings:08:00 AM - 12:30 AM
Phone Number: +974 4437 5503

10. Sanaa Mandi Restaurant
Near Doha’s main attractions, Sanaa Mandi Restaurant is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. Known for its casual and friendly setting, Sanaa offers various mandi options prepared with authentic spices. It’s a great stop for visitors exploring Doha, as it provides a quintessential taste of Middle Eastern cuisine in a relaxed environment?
Location: 164, Souq Waqif Souq Waqif, 3 Souq Asiri, Doha
Timings:08:00 AM - 12:30 AM
Phone Number: +974 4001 2881 

 

These top ten mandi restaurants showcase the rich variety of flavors and cooking styles that Qatar offers. 
From traditional recipes using underground cooking methods to innovative takes with grilled and spicy options, these eateries highlight how the dish has evolved while retaining its Yemeni roots. 
Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, Qatar’s diverse mandi options allow for an immersive culinary journey through the flavors of the Arabian Peninsula.