Where to Find the Best Mandi Chicken in Egypt – A SceneEats Guide

Alright, let’s get straight to the point: if you’re still eating bland chicken and plain rice, it’s time to rethink dinner. Enter Mandi - a Yemeni dish that’s all about bold flavors and smoky perfection. Think tender chicken, slow-cooked in a tandoor (an underground clay oven) until it’s packed with that distinct smoky aroma, paired with fragrant rice infused with Yemeni spices like saffron and cardamom. This is not your average meal - it’s a tradition rooted in centuries of culinary artistry.

What makes Mandi stand out is its balance of simplicity and depth. The chicken is smoked to perfection, its flavor elevated by the drama of the tandoor, while the rice, subtly spiced, carries just the right amount of richness without overpowering the dish. 

Thankfully, Egypt’s food scene is keeping the tradition alive. We’ve put together a guide to the best Mandi spots around, so you can experience a meal that’s as satisfying as it is memorable. It’s time to ditch the ordinary and discover what your plate has been missing.