Baghdad’s famous Kubba: a culinary tradition since the 1980s

BAGHDAD — Baghdad residents flock to the renowned Kubba Al-Baghdadi restaurant in Karrada area every morning, a name that has been synonymous with quality since the 1980s. Known for serving what many locals consider the best kubba on the Rusafa side of Baghdad, the restaurant has drawn generations of loyal customers.

Ammar Al-Baghdadi, the restaurant’s owner, explained that the price of kubba has steadily increased over the decades due to market conditions and rising meat costs. It started at 300 fils, the subdivision of the Iraqi currency at the time, in the 1980s and has risen incrementally to its current price, which continues to climb. Despite this, he said, “Our customers praise the taste of our kubba, which has remained unchanged.”

Kubba, also known as kibbeh, is a traditional dish popular in Iraqi cuisine and across the Middle East. It typically consists of a mixture of finely ground meat (usually lamb or beef), onions, and spices encased in a shell made from bulgur wheat or rice. The dish comes in various forms and preparations, often depending on the region and local traditions.  In Iraq, it is usually flat and round.

The restaurant offers a variety of kubba dishes, locally known as kubba Saray, kubba Hilaliyah, kubba Tamman, and Mosuli kubba. Al-Baghdadi mentioned that Mustafa Al-Kadhimi visited the restaurant during Eid Al-Fitr while serving as prime minister.

Jaafar Munadil, a chef and brother of the owner, highlighted that the recipes have stayed the same since the restaurant’s founding. He said the ingredients—including spices, almonds, raisins, and lamb fat—have not been altered, which keeps long-time customers coming back. “Our old customers can attest to that,” Munadil said.

One regular customer, Mohammed Latif, shared his thoughts on why the restaurant remains popular. He praised its cleanliness and the quality of its dishes, noting that “you can smell the kubba from outside the restaurant.”

Latif added that the owners prioritize their reputation, which attracts customers from across Baghdad. “I came from New Baghdad to Karrada just to enjoy a serving of kubba before heading back,” he said.

Kubba can be served as a main dish, side dish, or snack, depending on its type. It is often accompanied by yogurt-based sauces, pickles, or salads. Some versions are also cooked in soups or stews, making it a versatile dish enjoyed at family gatherings, festivals, and special occasions.