Zam Zam Mandi is a popular chain of restaurants in the UAE, renowned for its authentic Arabic and Middle Eastern cuisine, particularly the traditional Yemeni-style Mandi—a slow-cooked dish where marinated meat (like chicken or mutton) is prepared underground with aromatic spices, served alongside flavorful rice, soup, sauces, and pickles. Established in 2009 in Dubai as a Limited Liability Company, it has grown into a pioneer of traditional cuisine, appealing to Emiratis, business professionals, and expatriate communities from Asia and Europe. The chain emphasizes "more tradition, more taste" and has expanded to 22 branches across the UAE and Oman, including coffee shops and full restaurants. It's especially famous for dishes like: Chicken Mandi: Tender chicken marinated in special spices, slow-cooked underground, and served with rice and sides. Mutton Mandi: Rich, spiced mutton prepared similarly, often highlighted as a must-try. Other specialties: Fried chicken with vegetables, Hammour (fish) Mandi, Meat Madfoon (another spiced meat variant), Kunafa (a sweet layered dessert), and refreshing shakes. Popular Locations in Dubai The chain has multiple outlets, with the Jumeirah branch being a standout favorite for locals and expats. Here's a quick list of key spots: Deira (Near Mutheena Park): Opposite Marco Polo Hotel, next to Aster Clinic—great for central access. Deira City Centre Area: Convenient for shoppers; highly rated on platforms like Zomato. Nadd Al Hamar: A cozy option in a residential area. Jumeirah: The flagship for an "unrivaled Middle Eastern experience." Popular locations in Abu Dhabi Khalifa City (SW1, Near Al Mireef Street): The flagship in Abu Dhabi, ideal for airport travelers. Address: SW1, Khalifa City, Abu Dhabi. Known for smoky chicken and mutton Mandi, plus generous sides like soup and pickles. Phone: +971 50 800... (full number on Zomato). Baniyas (Sarab Community Market): A casual favorite in the Outer Abu Dhabi area, great for residents. Highly rated for value and portions; one of 12 outlets in the Baniyas zone. Check Zomato for the exact address and menu. Al Karama: Centrally located for easy access, specializing in Arabic grills and Yemeni Mandi. Delivery available via EatEasy with a 7 AED fee and 45-minute turnaround. Mohamed Bin Zayed City (ME10, Waqid Bin Abdullah Street): A newer spot in a growing residential hub, two floors with ample seating. Perfect for community dining. My always go to place...
Read moreZam Zam Restaurant - A Must-Visit in Abu Dhabi
For dinner, we headed to Zam Zam Restaurant, well-known for its flavourful dishes,m and it truly lived up to its reputation! We discovered this gem on Google Maps and decided to end our long, tiring day with a feast.
We ordered mandi rice, grilled chicken, charcoal chicken and peri-peri chicken. The mandi rice was hands down the best I’ve ever tasted! We tried both half mandi rice and half bukhari rice and the portions were enormous. If you’re a light eater, one portion can easily feed 2-3 people, while big eaters can share a single portion between two.
I highly recommend the peri-peri chicken—it was perfectly seasoned and tender. Our server, Suzata, provided excellent customer service. She patiently explained the menu and recommended we try two types of rice. Her recommendations made our experience even better.
We also treated ourselves to drinks. The mango falooda, made with fresh mango, mango ice cream and chopped mango, was simply the best I’ve ever had! We also tried the Arabian Knights (strawberry milkshake), which was equally delightful. In fact, the mango falooda was so good that we returned the next day just to get more!
To top it off, they treated us to mint tea and sweet balls, both of which were delicious.
The food, service, and overall experience were outstanding. We highly recommend Zam Zam Restaurant to anyone visiting Abu Dhabi—a perfect way to end the day with...
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ZAM ZAM Restaurant in Abu Dhabi is a culinary treasure that deserves all five stars and more! From the moment I stepped inside, I was transported to a world of exquisite flavors and warm hospitality.
The menu at ZAM ZAM is a true culinary journey, featuring a rich tapestry of Middle Eastern and international dishes. Every dish I tried was a burst of flavor, expertly prepared and beautifully presented.
The highlight of my visit was undoubtedly their signature dishes, which showcase the restaurant's commitment to quality and authenticity. Whether it was their succulent kebabs, fragrant biryanis, or delicate pastries, each bite was a revelation.
The ambiance at ZAM ZAM is equally captivating, with a blend of traditional decor and modern comfort. It's a perfect setting for a romantic dinner, a family gathering, or even a business lunch.
What truly sets ZAM ZAM apart, however, is their exceptional staff. They go above and beyond to make you feel welcome and ensure your dining experience is flawless. Their knowledge of the menu and their willingness to accommodate dietary preferences is commendable.
ZAM ZAM Restaurant in Abu Dhabi is more than just a place to eat; it's an experience that lingers in your memory long after the meal is over. If you're in Abu Dhabi and seeking a culinary adventure, don't miss the opportunity to dine at ZAM ZAM. It's a true gem in the city's dining...
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