Jordan

What to eat in Amman

Amman's culinary scene mixes traditional Levantine fare with modern cafés and street‑food stalls. Affordable mezze and hearty meat dishes sit alongside international chains.

Local dishes to try

Mansaf

Jordan's national dish of lamb cooked in fermented yogurt sauce, served on a communal platter.

Shawarma

Thinly sliced lamb or chicken rolled in flatbread with garlic sauce, sold on every street corner.

Falafel

Deep‑fried balls of spiced chickpeas, often eaten with tahini and pickles for lunch.

Hummus

Smooth puree of chickpeas, olive oil and lemon, a staple at mezze tables.

Kunafeh

Sweet cheese pastry soaked in orange‑scented syrup, popular in the evenings.

Baklava

Layered phyllo with pistachios and honey, found in bakeries across the city.

Fuul

Warm stew of fava beans, cumin and olive oil, commonly eaten for breakfast.

Arabic coffee

Strong coffee flavored with cardamom, served in small cups after meals.

Where to eat

1
Rainbow Street
Trendy cafés and street‑food stalls; try shawarma and kunafeh.
2
Al-Balad (Downtown)
Historic souk area; sample mansaf at local eateries and falafel from vendors.
3
Abdali Boulevard
Modern mall corridor with diverse restaurants; good for hummus and fresh juices.

Photos: Wikipedia / Wikimedia Commons

Tips for eating out

Lunch is usually served from 12 pm to 3 pm; many places close for a siesta in the afternoon.
Leave a small tip (5‑10 %) if service is not included; cash is preferred.
Dress modestly when eating in traditional neighborhoods; avoid pork and alcohol.