HOUSE OF MANDI — Restaurant in Calgary

Looked like family business or aftar party at local mosque with long line up where we were not able to open fast on time because buffet table space was very small and kids were taking too-long on table. Food taste was just like any other arab food but there were Chinese rolls and Indian type samosas. They said over the phone that it will be whole lamb mandi but brought big pieces and one woman was standing right there to control portions in plate. It was pricey if you look at buffet items. Should not be more than $25. Most disturbing factor was their videographers taking photos with out our consent while we were standing in long line up right before breaking fast. Seems like they are inviting big law suites in next few months if this family business does not educate their employees. They also charged 15% service fee while we were getting our food on our own since it was buffet dinner. My suggestion would be that instead of focusing on taking pictures of customers while in line, they should focus on making sure customers are being served on timely basis. There was only one item as main dish and rest were snacks. I would never go there again. Lady who was controlling food denied to give rice from main platter that had nuts and seeds in it. She said i can only give you meat pieces. I felt i was getting free food at mosque during ramadan, while we paid $35 bucks for each person+15% without any table service. We used only one plate and idea of standing in line up again was not good...

I visited this restaurant with my family on a Thursday night, and unfortunately, it was a very disappointing experience. The restaurant was completely empty, which was a bit concerning from the start. The place felt neglected as there was visible dust, and the interior was outdated and worn out. It didn’t reflect the beautiful authentic Yemeni culture or spirit. The furniture was old and uncomfortable, and overall, the atmosphere lacked warmth and character.

As for the food, it was well below our expectations. We’ve tried a few Yemeni restaurants before, and this one didn’t come close. The Lamb Mandi was the most disappointing dish, the meat had a strong, unpleasant smell and tasted like it had been simply boiled rather than cooked in the traditional Mandi style. The rice was also flavorless. The Mofa fish and Kebdah were average at best. One thing that stood out in a confusing way was the Fattoush salad served with every main dish !! It felt completely out of place for a Yemeni menu. The Yemeni bread was another letdown. It was served cold, very thin, and missing the rich texture and flavor we’re used to. There was no sign of the black seed which is usually part of the authentic experience. The only positive note was the waitress, who was kind, attentive, and welcoming. Her hospitality was appreciated and is the main reason I’m giving this place 2 stars instead of 1. Overall, it was not a pleasant dining experience, and I wouldn’t return or...

My experience at House of Mandi was nothing short of extraordinary—unlike any other Yemeni restaurant I've visited abroad. This place didn’t just serve food; it served memories, emotions, and a profound connection to my homeland. With every piece of bread I dipped into the bubbling pan of Fahsa, I was transported straight to my mother’s kitchen—where each dish was crafted with love, and every bite wrapped me in warmth and nostalgia.

But the real surprise came with the Moofa Fish. One bite, and I was swept away to the lively fish markets of Yemen—the sounds, the scents, the anticipation as we waited for the cook to prepare the freshest catch of the Red Sea. The richness of the Traditional Adeni chili blend packed into the fish I had at House of Mandi was astonishing. It wasn’t just a meal; it was a journey back in time, filled with the scents and sounds of home.

What makes House of Mandi truly special is its ability to preserve the soul of Yemeni cuisine. The dishes here aren’t just authentic—they carry the unmistakable essence of a true Sana’ani kitchen.

I don’t know how the chef achieved this magic, but I do know one thing: whenever longing for Yemen grips my heart, I’ll return here to find comfort, memory, and belonging in every...