Derwandi — Restaurant in Abu Dhabi

Restaurant Review: Derwandi – Where the Bread is Holy and Mustafa is a National Treasure

If you ever find yourself in Abu Dhabi wondering where to have lunch that doesn’t feel like yet another overpriced mall experiment in hummus, march yourself straight to Derwandi—a Lebanese spot so good, it might just convince you that garlic, lemon, and olive oil are the true holy trinity.

Let me begin with a standing ovation for Mustafa, our server extraordinaire. Not only was he gracious, charming, and lightning-fast, but he also had that rare gift of making you feel like you were the most important diner in the restaurant—even though my CEO was clearly trying to outshine me with a fried calamari-salad-prawn power play. (Nice try, boss. I had soup and tabbouleh. That’s balance.)

The tabbouleh? Fresh enough to make you question every sad parsley attempt you’ve had elsewhere. My soup was so comforting I briefly considered calling it “Mama.” And then came the Arabic bread—fresh, warm, fluffy yet crispy-edged perfection. Honestly, if this bread had a LinkedIn profile, I’d endorse every skill and write it a glowing recommendation. “Team player. Goes with everything. Delivers under pressure (from olive oil).”

Now, I didn’t try the prawns, but judging by the CEO’s blissed-out silence and inability to make eye contact for five full minutes, I can confirm they were probably divine. I did dip the bread in the prawn sauce. Mmmm

And just when we thought the culinary love affair had peaked, Mustafa glides in with a fruit platter so gorgeous it could model in Dubai Mall. On the house. I mean, who does that anymore? (Mustafa does.)

Bottom line: Derwandi is the kind of place where food meets joy, bread meets destiny, and Mustafa meets legend. I’m coming back—with or without the CEO.

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Would...

Hola 👋 I come before couple of days I also have a restaurant I'm from Spain to a great country that has everything you need at a very low cost it's the first time that I write about my experience with a restaurant. it's my first time in an Arab country. It's the first time that I eat Arabic food. Everything was great experience wise. I was very impressed with the desserts they serve ...and the food is really amazing and absolutely wonderful. But all this was not done and will not be done except through this young man (Mahmoud). He really is a treasure for this restaurant, he told me the best food and explained everything I wanted, since I have no experience with Arabic food, but thanks to him, he made the experience more than wonderful. you will be falls in love with him from the first time ... the way treats you ... He has a lot of experience and a great degree professionalism when he talking .. And above at all, he's extremely handsome and very funny to the extreme. made me unable to laugh excessively. What a lovely person. I have seen this in his dealings with some clients Others at adjacent tables. Meet the aspirations and vocation of his work. If i could take him there with me (I mean Spain of course) I will put him in charge of the restaurant and I will teach him the language because he really told me that he loves the Spanish language. I will definitely try and work to bring it. It will be useful for me. You will love the place very much. Such a person should not be neglected at all costs. Raquel 🧡❤️ I would definitely return...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at Derwandi restaurant, and I must say it was an experience to remember. From the moment I walked in, the ambiance was warm and inviting, with beautiful decor that made me feel like I was in the heart of the Middle East. The menu had a wide range of traditional dishes, each one more tempting than the last.

The food itself was absolutely delicious! The hummus was creamy and flavorful, the falafel crispy on the outside yet soft on the inside, and the lamb kebabs were perfectly cooked, tender, and juicy. Each dish was seasoned to perfection, and the portion sizes were generous.

However, what truly made the experience special was the exceptional service provided by Mahmoud. He was incredibly attentive and friendly, always ready to offer recommendations based on our preferences. Mahmoud’s knowledge of the menu was impressive, and he took the time to ensure that we were completely satisfied with our meal. His warm demeanor made us feel like we were being welcomed into his own home. Mahmoud's professionalism and genuine care for our experience elevated the entire dining experience.

I highly recommend this restaurant to anyone looking for authentic Arabic cuisine, great ambiance, and outstanding service. Be sure to ask for Mahmoud—his excellent service will surely make your visit even...