Mansaf

Food in Jordan

Mansaf

Jordan may not have an official national dish, but if there were to be one, mansaf would undoubtedly claim the title. This hearty dish features tender lamb that falls off the bone, served over a bed of rice. The signature feature of mansaf is its sauce, made from jameed—a dried goat’s milk yogurt that is rehydrated into a tart broth and poured generously over the meat. Slivered almonds often garnish the dish, adding a touch of crunch.

Where to try mansaf? While many Jordanians prefer to enjoy mansaf at home, if you choose to dine out, Sufra on Amman's lively Rainbow Street is a reliable spot. Its generous portions of mansaf are renowned, with locals often saying it’s nearly as good as what mom makes. Be sure to finish your meal with a serving of um ali, Jordan’s answer to bread pudding, infused with pistachios and rosewater. Afterward, a post-lunch nap might be in order!

Falafel

Food in Jordan

Falafel

A Middle Eastern fast food classic, falafel transcends borders, and Jordan is no exception. These golden, crispy balls of ground chickpeas are found throughout the country, typically served in a pita sandwich with tomatoes, pickles, and a dusting of sumac.

Where to try falafel? In Amman, Al-Quds on Rainbow Street serves delicious and affordable falafel sandwiches on sesame bread. For a particularly memorable falafel experience, head to Shaheen Restaurant in Madaba, famous for its fresh, hot falafel, paired with homemade spicy sauce.

Maqluba

Food in Jordan

Maqluba

Named after the Arabic word for "upside down," maqluba is a comforting one-pot meal made by layering meat (usually chicken), eggplant, cauliflower, and rice, then flipping it all onto a plate when served. The blend of cinnamon, garlic, and baharat (a spice mix of cloves, nutmeg, and others) brings warmth and depth to this dish.

Where to try maqluba? The best maqluba is often enjoyed in a Jordanian home, but you can also book a homestay or a cooking class at places like Beit Sitti in Amman, where you’ll learn how to make this delicious dish yourself. If you’re looking for an authentic experience, consider joining a hiking tour in the Ajloun Forest Reserve before sharing a homemade maqluba meal with a local guide and their family.

Manakish Za'atar

Food in Jordan

Manakish Za'atar

A traditional Middle Eastern breakfast dish, manakish za'atar is a flatbread topped with a blend of wild thyme, sesame seeds, sumac, and sometimes caraway. This fragrant spice mixture is generously spread over the dough, which is then baked with olive oil.

Where to try manakish za'atar? Barhoum Bakery in Ajloun offers a particularly delicious version, made with the region's renowned olive oil. In Aqaba, Tarboush Bakery and Baba Za'atar are both excellent places to try this savory treat. Be sure to grab some kibbeh (fried croquettes stuffed with spiced meat and pine nuts) as well.

Sayadieh

Food in Jordan

Sayadieh

The Red Sea influences Jordan’s southwestern cuisine, and sayadieh, a Lebanese-inspired dish, is a must-try. This dish pairs baked or fried white fish with rice cooked in saffron, caramelized onions, almonds, citrus, and pine nuts.

Where to try sayadieh? In Aqaba, the Red Sea Grill at the Movenpick Resort is a popular choice, offering fresh, delicious sayadieh with views of the sea. For a more casual experience, Captain's is another great spot to enjoy this dish, though be prepared for a touristy atmosphere.

Knafeh

Food in Jordan

Knafeh

A beloved dessert throughout the Arab world, knafeh is a combination of mild white cheese and shredded phyllo dough soaked in sweet syrup, often flavored with rose or orange blossom water, and garnished with pistachios.

Where to try knafeh? For the best knafeh in Jordan, visit Habibah Sweets in Amman, where you can enjoy this syrupy treat fresh from the counter. If you find yourself in the ancient city of Jerash, Green Salon Sweets offers fresh knafeh to refuel after exploring the Roman ruins.

Limonana

Food in Jordan

Limonana

A refreshing and tangy drink, limonana is a Middle Eastern take on lemonade, combining fresh lemon juice, mint leaves, and sometimes sugar. Served chilled or even frozen, this drink is perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

Where to try limonana? For a delicious limonana, head to Ananas in Amman’s city center, located near the famous Hashem Hummus. Alternatively, indulge in a fancy version at the Hyatt Zaman hotel outside Petra, or enjoy it at the café by the Monastery in Petra after your climb.

Arabic Coffee & Bedouin Tea

Food in Jordan

Arabic Coffee & Bedouin Tea:

No visit to Jordan is complete without experiencing Arabic coffee and Bedouin tea. Arabic coffee is brewed strong and spiced with cardamom, served in small cups with sugar. Similarly, Bedouin tea is often prepared with mint or sage, and it’s typically served sweet and strong.

Where to drink it? You can find coffee and tea in many places across Jordan. For an exceptional coffee experience, visit Ayman Coffee Shop in Jabal Amman, where coffee is brewed over hot sand. For tea, consider stopping by the Wadi Rum desert camps or a roadside stand to enjoy a cup while taking in the scenery.

What to Eat in Jordan (and Where to Eat It)

Mansaf

Falafel

Maqluba

Manakish Za'atar

Sayadieh

Knafeh

Limonana

Arabic Coffee & Bedouin Tea:

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