Jordan · tool
Amman food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Amman.
What to eat in Amman
6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.
Must-try dishes
Mansaf
Jordan's national dish: lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce (jameed) served over rice with pine nuts. The tangy, savory flavor is unique and deeply satisfying.
Fatteh
A layered dish of pita bread, chickpeas, yogurt, and often meat or vegetables, topped with ghee and nuts. It's a hearty and comforting breakfast or light meal.
Kunafa
A sweet cheese pastry made with shredded phyllo dough or semolina, soaked in sweet syrup, and often topped with pistachios. The contrast of warm, gooey cheese and crisp pastry is divine.
Falafel
Crispy chickpea and fava bean fritters, often served in a pita with tahini and vegetables. Amman's falafel stands are legendary for their freshness and flavor.
Maqluba
An 'upside-down' rice dish with layers of fried vegetables (eggplant, cauliflower, potatoes) and meat, cooked in a pot and then flipped onto a serving platter. It’s a flavorful, communal feast.
Zarb
A Bedouin specialty from southern Jordan: meat (lamb or chicken) and vegetables slow-cooked underground in a pit oven. The smoky, tender result is unforgettable.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Bustling, historic, and chaotic street food hub.
Trendy and eclectic, with a mix of cafes, restaurants, and shops.
Upscale and modern, featuring fine dining and international restaurants.
Bohemian and artistic, with charming traditional eateries and modern fusion spots.
Dietary notes
Jordanian cuisine is rich and often features meat, particularly lamb. However, many vegetarian options are readily available, especially in mezze platters (hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, salads). Vegan options can be found by focusing on these mezze and avoiding dairy. Gluten-free can be challenging due to the prevalence of bread, but rice-based dishes and grilled meats/vegetables are safe bets.
Local etiquette
- •Tipping: A service charge is often included in bills at restaurants. For excellent service, an additional 5-10% is appreciated.
- •Cash is king in smaller shops and street food stalls, but credit cards are widely accepted in hotels and larger restaurants.
- •When invited to someone's home, it's polite to bring a small gift, such as sweets or pastries.
- •Eating with the right hand is customary, especially when sharing dishes or eating without cutlery.
- •Dinner is typically eaten later in the evening, often starting around 8 PM or later.
Plan the rest of your Amman trip
Food guides elsewhere