Jordan · tool
Petra food guide
Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Petra.
What to eat in Petra
5 signature dishes, 3 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) and served with rice and flatbread. The tangy, rich flavor is uniquely Bedouin.
Maqluba
An upside-down dish of rice, fried vegetables (eggplant, cauliflower, potatoes), and chicken or lamb, cooked in one pot. It's a comforting and visually impressive meal.
Zarb
A Bedouin barbecue where meat (lamb or chicken) and vegetables are slow-cooked underground in a sand oven. The smoky, tender result is a true desert delicacy.
Foul Medames
A staple breakfast of slow-cooked fava beans mashed with garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil, often served with fresh bread. It's hearty, flavorful, and energizing for a day of exploring.
Kunafa
A sweet cheese pastry made with shredded phyllo dough or semolina, soaked in sweet syrup, and layered with cheese. The warm, gooey interior and crispy exterior are divine.
Where locals eat — best neighborhoods
Tourist hub with a wide range of restaurants, from casual to sit-down.
More authentic, local feel with Bedouin tents offering traditional meals.
Bustling and vibrant, offering street food and local snacks.
Dietary notes
Jordanian cuisine is generally meat-heavy, with lamb and chicken featuring prominently. However, many vegetarian options exist, especially in appetizers like hummus, baba ghanoush, and tabbouleh. Vegan options are readily available, and gluten-free diners can usually find rice-based dishes or grilled meats.
Local etiquette
- •When offered coffee or tea, accept at least one cup as a sign of politeness. You can decline a second cup by placing your hand over your cup.
- •Tipping is customary. Around 10% is standard for good service in restaurants, and rounding up the bill is common.
- •While credit cards are accepted in larger establishments, carrying cash (Jordanian Dinars) is advisable for smaller shops, markets, and some local eateries.
- •Dress modestly, especially when visiting religious sites or interacting with locals outside of major tourist areas. Shoulders and knees should be covered.