Amman Jordan Travel Guide
Jordanian cuisine reflects centuries of history and cultural exchange. It draws impact from Bedouin traditions, the Ottoman Empire, and Palestinian heritage.
Core ingredients include lamb, chicken, rice, chickpeas, lentils, fresh produce. Flavor profiles are aromatic and savory, often balanced with sweet and sour notes.
Amman features dishes from various regions, including Bedouin-style Mansaf.
Mint, parsley, za'atar, sumac, cumin, cardamom impart distinct flavors.
Customary to begin with 'Bismillah' and end with 'Alhamdulillah'.
Jordan's national dish: lamb in jameed sauce, served over rice with shrak bread.
Find at: Sufra, Hashem Restaurant.
Falafel: deep-fried chickpea patties. Hummus: creamy chickpea dip.
Find everywhere, especially Hashem Restaurant Downtown.
Sweet dessert with pastry strands, unsalted cheese, and syrup.
Find at: Habibah Sweets.
Lentils and rice with caramelized onions; a tasty vegetarian option.
Selection of compact dishes like mutabal, tabbouleh, fattoush, warak enab.
Exceptional dining at upscale hotels (Fakhreldin, La Capitale) plus premium Abdoun neighborhoods.
Many choices in Jabal Amman, Jabal Weibdeh. Balance of quality, ambiance, price.
Downtown (Al-Balad) is ideal for budget-friendly and authentic street food.
Located Downtown, sells fresh produce, spices, local sweets.
Good for local ingredients.
Seasonal market (May-Sept, Fridays) on Rainbow Street, with food stalls and crafts.
Lively environment to sample foods.
Many pasta and pizza options.
Sushi and other Asian dishes.
Burgers and casual dining.
Varied European cuisines available.
Challenging to find strictly gluten-free. Naturally gluten-free dishes include roasted meats, rice dishes, salads.
Communicate clearly, as cross-contamination awareness varies.
Translate common allergen phrases into Arabic for staff.
Carry an allergy card in Arabic.
When ordering, clearly state your dietary restrictions and request for clarification if needed.
Many dishes feature olive oil, chickpeas, and various spices.
Located in Jabal Weibdeh. Focus on traditional Jordanian and Palestinian cuisine.
Guided tours through Downtown or Jabal Weibdeh. Sample street food and traditional dishes.
Intimate settings with local families for an awareness of Jordanian hospitality.
A cooking class in progress at Beit Sitti, with participants preparing traditional Jordanian dishes.
This immersive activity allows interaction with local cuisine and culture.
A delectable way to learn about Jordanian food traditions.
Especially for popular cooking classes or food tours.
Communicate any dietary restrictions in advance for classes.
For food tours with walking portions.
Exploring Amman's culinary landscape is a joy. Here are a few final tips:
