Persian Flavours
Reviewers praise the authentic Iranian flavour across dishes including kebabs, rice dishes and traditional specialities.
Deira
Darband Restaurant is a Persian restaurant in Deira, formerly known as Kabab Al Mamzar and Kebab Achomi. Reviews point to its chargrilled kebabs, especially koobideh, alongside dishes such as Looti Polo, served in a traditional, unfussy setting.
Source: Google Maps
Reviewers praise the authentic Iranian flavour across dishes including kebabs, rice dishes and traditional specialities.
The kebabs are repeatedly described as well-seasoned, tender and properly chargrilled.
Looti Polo is a standout order, with one review highlighting its butter, egg, saffron and tomato flavours.
Multiple diners mention attentive hospitality, including a thoughtful offer of yoghurt mix for the whole group.
One family reviewer reported plenty of parking in front of and behind the market.
These items at Darband Restaurant مطعم دربند got the most positive mentions in user reviews. Check them out!
“Came here to try the Looti polo and wasn’t bad , I liked it . My only issue the “masti” was a bit chewy , I asked if it’s beef but they confirmed it’s lamb but not sure why it was chewy . The food tastes well overal .”
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“Came here to try the Looti polo and wasn’t bad , I liked it . My only issue the “masti” was a bit chewy , I asked if it’s beef but they confirmed it’s lamb but not sure why it was chewy . The food tastes well overal .”August 2025
“Food is so yummy. Good ambience for dine in.Try looti polo”July 2024
“I will probably not visit again unless I was in the mood of yogurt Tikka with a bottle of refreshing Abali fizzy doogh.”
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“I will probably not visit again unless I was in the mood of yogurt Tikka with a bottle of refreshing Abali fizzy doogh.”May 2021
“Because I am so infatuated with the Koobideh next door (at Khoory), I have treated Achome’s Koobideh unfairly. The truth is that it’s pretty good. Unless you are going next door after Achome, I would include the koobideh.”
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“Because I am so infatuated with the Koobideh next door (at Khoory), I have treated Achome’s Koobideh unfairly. The truth is that it’s pretty good. Unless you are going next door after Achome, I would include the koobideh.”February 2021
“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”
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“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”July 2025
“My favourite is their tart and tangy Bahraini Kabab. It has consistently been better than anything I have had in Dubai.”
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“My favourite is their tart and tangy Bahraini Kabab. It has consistently been better than anything I have had in Dubai.”February 2021
“Looti Polo and Chicken Koobideh is highly recommended”
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“Looti Polo and Chicken Koobideh is highly recommended”November 2024
“I ate there my best chicken Kubideh (and I’m not a chicken person at all). The texture is purely amazing : CAFU 👍🏻”
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“I ate there my best chicken Kubideh (and I’m not a chicken person at all). The texture is purely amazing : CAFU 👍🏻”November 2023
“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”
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“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”July 2025
“The food is awesome. Their lutti polo and chullu kebeb is to die for. The staff is extremely friendly and their suggestions are spot on.”
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“The food is awesome. Their lutti polo and chullu kebeb is to die for. The staff is extremely friendly and their suggestions are spot on.”December 2024
“Fat (charbi) - Must have”
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“Fat (charbi) - Must have”June 2025
“Whilst Khoory Special Kabab Restaurant next door has the pedigree, fresh Sangak bread and possibly the best Koobideh in town, Achome remains the more appropriate all-rounder and my restaurant of choice of the three for dine in.”
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“Whilst Khoory Special Kabab Restaurant next door has the pedigree, fresh Sangak bread and possibly the best Koobideh in town, Achome remains the more appropriate all-rounder and my restaurant of choice of the three for dine in.”February 2021
“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”
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“I’ve tried their Koobideh, Mutton and Chicken Yogurt, Chicken Saffron, Ash Reshteh, Looti Polo, and Ghormeh Sabzi, each dish is full of authentic Persian flavor and beautifully prepared.”July 2025
“I recently dined at Kabab Al Mamzar and had a fantastic experience. The grilled dishes were a highlight, showcasing exceptional flavor and perfect cooking. The ambiance created a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall dining experience. The staff provided excellent service, demonstrating attentiveness and knowledge about the menu. I particularly enjoyed the mix grill platter which was expertly grilled to perfection.”
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“I recently dined at Kabab Al Mamzar and had a fantastic experience. The grilled dishes were a highlight, showcasing exceptional flavor and perfect cooking. The ambiance created a warm and inviting atmosphere, enhancing the overall dining experience. The staff provided excellent service, demonstrating attentiveness and knowledge about the menu. I particularly enjoyed the mix grill platter which was expertly grilled to perfection.”January 2024
“The Iranian rice and pomegranate paste added a whole new depth to the authentic Persian experience.”
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“The Iranian rice and pomegranate paste added a whole new depth to the authentic Persian experience.”October 2024
“We ordered the Mixed Kebab and Kaseh Kebab - absolutely smashed it. Ask them politely to order Sangak from next door, and use the bread to pull the meat off the skewers. Dream meal.”
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“We ordered the Mixed Kebab and Kaseh Kebab - absolutely smashed it. Ask them politely to order Sangak from next door, and use the bread to pull the meat off the skewers. Dream meal.”September 2024
“I tried Kebab Torsh which is my favorite food The taste was good but unfortunately the rice was not persian rice so this really made me upset”
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“I tried Kebab Torsh which is my favorite food The taste was good but unfortunately the rice was not persian rice so this really made me upset”March 2026
“The surprise for me were their Lamb Chops which, while not in the same league as Damyati or the Meating Room’s, are still pretty darn good and definitely worth including in your order.”
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“The surprise for me were their Lamb Chops which, while not in the same league as Damyati or the Meating Room’s, are still pretty darn good and definitely worth including in your order.”February 2021
“It’s a good place for Persian Arabic meat lovers. Lamb neck menu was awesome 😍”
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“It’s a good place for Persian Arabic meat lovers. Lamb neck menu was awesome 😍”June 2026
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”
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“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”November 2023
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”
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“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”November 2023
“As Indians, we’ve tried countless varieties of pulao or pilaf, but Loobia Polo at Derband Restaurant is one you simply can't miss! This Iranian rice dish is a delightful surprise, combining tender green beans, succulent beef or lamb, and fragrant rice, all infused with rich tomato paste and spices. It's a comforting and flavorful experience that will leave you craving more.”
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“As Indians, we’ve tried countless varieties of pulao or pilaf, but Loobia Polo at Derband Restaurant is one you simply can't miss! This Iranian rice dish is a delightful surprise, combining tender green beans, succulent beef or lamb, and fragrant rice, all infused with rich tomato paste and spices. It's a comforting and flavorful experience that will leave you craving more.”October 2024
“The food is awesome. Their lutti polo and chullu kebeb is to die for. The staff is extremely friendly and their suggestions are spot on.”
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“The food is awesome. Their lutti polo and chullu kebeb is to die for. The staff is extremely friendly and their suggestions are spot on.”December 2024
“Ordered the meat kebab for one (the other two had already eaten elsewhere). Yet they offered the youghurt mix for all 3 of us - a nice gesture from them. Kebab was excellent and was the right flavor and just the right chargrilled.”
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“Ordered the meat kebab for one (the other two had already eaten elsewhere). Yet they offered the youghurt mix for all 3 of us - a nice gesture from them. Kebab was excellent and was the right flavor and just the right chargrilled.”April 2026
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”
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“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”November 2023
“I’m a foodie and have a special love for Persian food. On my cousin’s recommendation, we visited this restaurant and ordered the Mix BBQ platter with rice, which was served along with salad, cheese, and hot bread. Since the place was fully packed, it took a little while for the food to arrive, but everything came hot and fresh. We really enjoyed it.”
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“I’m a foodie and have a special love for Persian food. On my cousin’s recommendation, we visited this restaurant and ordered the Mix BBQ platter with rice, which was served along with salad, cheese, and hot bread. Since the place was fully packed, it took a little while for the food to arrive, but everything came hot and fresh. We really enjoyed it.”January 2026
“I particularly enjoyed the mix grill platter which was expertly grilled to perfection.”
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“I particularly enjoyed the mix grill platter which was expertly grilled to perfection.”January 2024
“It's good, tried mix kebab and it's taste was delicious”
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“It's good, tried mix kebab and it's taste was delicious”August 2020
“We ordered the Mixed Kebab and Kaseh Kebab - absolutely smashed it. Ask them politely to order Sangak from next door, and use the bread to pull the meat off the skewers. Dream meal.”
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“We ordered the Mixed Kebab and Kaseh Kebab - absolutely smashed it. Ask them politely to order Sangak from next door, and use the bread to pull the meat off the skewers. Dream meal.”September 2024
“The Looti Polo and mixed kebab platter were outstanding, with perfectly grilled, juicy meat and fragrant rice.”
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“The Looti Polo and mixed kebab platter were outstanding, with perfectly grilled, juicy meat and fragrant rice.”June 2026
“We had the mixed meat dish, and oh my god, we were delighted!”
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“We had the mixed meat dish, and oh my god, we were delighted!”December 2024
“We usually end our meal there with a Nutella filled ragag.”
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“We usually end our meal there with a Nutella filled ragag.”February 2021
“Already repeat many time for lunch and dinner. Recommended and worth the price. My fav lunch potti polo with like mixing in pot serving .”
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“Already repeat many time for lunch and dinner. Recommended and worth the price. My fav lunch potti polo with like mixing in pot serving .”August 2024
“I’m not a fan of either preferring instead their unique Ragag, a dosa like crepe which, depending on which filling you choose, can be either sweet (for dessert) or savoury (as a snack).”
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“I’m not a fan of either preferring instead their unique Ragag, a dosa like crepe which, depending on which filling you choose, can be either sweet (for dessert) or savoury (as a snack).”February 2021
“The kebabs were juicy and well-seasoned, the saffron rice was fragrant, and the portions were generous. 🔥🍢🍚”
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“The kebabs were juicy and well-seasoned, the saffron rice was fragrant, and the portions were generous. 🔥🍢🍚”June 2026
“The location is interesting, by a number of fierce competitors who would literally try to pull you to their restaurants, the external raised seating area is nice, the service is great, the koobideh is very good, and the yogurt Tikka is among the best in the country.”
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“The location is interesting, by a number of fierce competitors who would literally try to pull you to their restaurants, the external raised seating area is nice, the service is great, the koobideh is very good, and the yogurt Tikka is among the best in the country.”May 2021
“take the time to drink the home tea ; it is a pure pleasure to drink this with a touch of cinnamon inside; perfect to end a great meal.”
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“take the time to drink the home tea ; it is a pure pleasure to drink this with a touch of cinnamon inside; perfect to end a great meal.”November 2023
“Ms. Pai provided exemplary service, making our experience even better. The ambience was inviting, and I especially enjoyed the special tea with rock candy—absolutely a treat! Overall, a must-visit spot for anyone looking for great food and service. Highly recommend!”
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“Ms. Pai provided exemplary service, making our experience even better. The ambience was inviting, and I especially enjoyed the special tea with rock candy—absolutely a treat! Overall, a must-visit spot for anyone looking for great food and service. Highly recommend!”November 2024
“Darband Restaurant excels in delivering authentic Persian flavors while adding unique touches that make the experience memorable. Their kebabs are flawless, the rice is some of the best you’ll find, and the sugar cane cube with tea is a genius idea that encapsulates their blend of tradition and innovation.”
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“Darband Restaurant excels in delivering authentic Persian flavors while adding unique touches that make the experience memorable. Their kebabs are flawless, the rice is some of the best you’ll find, and the sugar cane cube with tea is a genius idea that encapsulates their blend of tradition and innovation.”December 2024
“On all the occasions I’ve ordered jigar at Achome, I’ve been more excited at the fact that I am having jigar as opposed to really enjoying the jigar. I find they cut the pieces too thick yet still manage to overcook them. Unless you are a die-hard jigar fan, order one of their other kababs instead.”
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“On all the occasions I’ve ordered jigar at Achome, I’ve been more excited at the fact that I am having jigar as opposed to really enjoying the jigar. I find they cut the pieces too thick yet still manage to overcook them. Unless you are a die-hard jigar fan, order one of their other kababs instead.”February 2021
Order Looti. Try Looti Polo; several reviewers specifically recommend it, including one who praised its saffron-rich flavour.
Try Koobideh. For a first kebab order, consider koobideh; one long-term review calls the chicken version especially good.
Request Sangak. Ask politely whether they can order Sangak from next door to use with the kebabs.
Visit Off-Peak. If you want a quicker meal, avoid the busiest periods, as a packed dining room caused a wait.
Use Parking. Drivers can look for parking in front of or behind the market, according to a family visit review.
Expect Casual. Come for the food rather than a polished restaurant setting: the interiors and seating are intentionally basic and traditional.
Plan the visit
| Mon | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Tue | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Wed | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Thu | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Fri | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Sat | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
| Sun | 12:00 AM – 12:00 PM |
One recent customer said food quality had declined across several home-delivery orders.
A diner enjoyed the Looti Polo but found the lamb masti unexpectedly chewy.
A fully packed dining room led to a longer wait for a mixed BBQ platter.
The atmosphere is traditional and informal rather than polished or luxurious.
A small number of reviews allege rude service, pressure for positive reviews and poor kebab quality.
These are customer-reported mentions, not a current price list. Prices may have changed.
chicken Kubideh
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”Google review · November 2023
meat Kubideh
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”Google review · November 2023
Lamb tikka with Yogurt
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”Google review · November 2023
Lamb tikka lemon
“⭐️ My recommendation : chicken Kubideh of course (35 Aed - 3 sticks) / meat Kubideh (40 Aed - 3 sticks) / Lamb tikka with Yogurt (39 Aed - 4 sticks) / Lamb tikka lemon (39 Aed - 4 Sticks)”Google review · November 2023
The Bottom Line
Darband Restaurant is a Persian dining spot in Deira, formerly known as Kabab Al Mamzar and Kebab Achomi. It is worth considering if your priority is Iranian-style grilled food rather than a polished, modern room. Reviews repeatedly point to juicy kebabs, especially koobideh, along with Looti Polo and mixed kebab platters.
Looti Polo is one of the clearest favourites, described with rich butter, egg, saffron and tomato flavours. Other named dishes include Loobia Polo, lamb neck, Kebab Torsh and the mixed BBQ platter. Portions are often described as generous, and several diners consider the pricing good value.
One older review lists chicken Kubideh at 35 Aed for three sticks and meat Kubideh at 40 Aed for three sticks, though these are customer-reported historical prices rather than a current menu. The setting is traditional and informal, with table seating and raised, carpeted majlis-style areas. Families have appreciated the atmosphere, while one late-night group sat outside.
Parking was reported in front of and behind the market. Service feedback is mostly warm and attentive, but not universal. A full dining room has caused delays, one reviewer found the lamb masti chewy, and a recent delivery customer reported declining quality across several orders.
For the best first visit, dine in and consider ordering a kebab with Looti Polo.