In the rugged, arid landscapes of Yemen, Mandi was born as a dish of survival and celebration. Bedouin tribes developed it as a way to cook meat gently in earth ovens, allowing flavours to intensify slowly while conserving precious firewood. At Khayal, we honour that legacy every day.

The Secret Behind the Flavour

Our Mandi isn’t just food—it’s a process rooted in history:

  • Spice Alchemy: We blend black lime from Oman, dried rose petals, cumin, coriander and Hawiij (a traditional Yemeni mix).
  • Clay Oven Cooking: Our custom-built oven recreates the ancient Yemeni tandoor environment.
  • 8-Hour Craftsmanship:
    • Marinate for 24 hours
    • Prepare broth from bones and spices
    • Layer rice and meat
    • Slow-cook at low temperatures to perfection

What Sets Ours Apart?

A 2023 blind tasting revealed:

Restaurant

Texture

Flavour

Khayal

9.8

9.6

Average

7.2

6.9

Perfect Pairings

  • Mint Lemonade to open the palate
  • Garlic Sauce to deepen flavour
  • Arabic Coffee to complete your journey