Guide To Jordan

Uncovering Jordan's Best-Kept Culinary Secrets: Hidden Gems for Foodies

Jordan is well-known for its delicious cuisine, which blends Middle Eastern and Mediterranean flavors with unique local ingredients and spices. But beyond the well-known dishes and popular restaurants, there are a number of hidden dining gems to discover throughout the country. From traditional Bedouin fare to modern fusion cuisine, here are some of Jordan's best kept secrets when it comes to dining.

1. Haret Jdoudna in Madaba:

Located in the small town of Madaba, just south of Amman, Haret Jdoudna is a charming restaurant housed in a traditional 19th-century stone house. The menu features traditional Jordanian dishes like mansaf (a lamb and rice dish served with yogurt sauce), as well as a range of grilled meats and fresh salads. The real highlight of Haret Jdoudna, however, is the picturesque courtyard, which is adorned with vibrant flowers and citrus trees.

2. Beit Sitti in Amman:

For a truly unique dining experience, head to Beit Sitti in Amman. This restaurant offers cooking classes and workshops where you can learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes like fattoush salad and makloubeh (a layered rice and vegetable dish). After the class, you'll get to enjoy your creations in the cozy dining room or on the outdoor terrace.

3. Hashem in Amman:

Hashem Restaurant is a true institution in Amman, Jordan, and is often referred to as one of the best falafel restaurants in the country. Located in downtown Amman, the restaurant has been serving up delicious, freshly-made falafel for over 50 years. As soon as you step inside, you'll notice the bustling atmosphere and the crowds of people lining up to order their food. The restaurant itself is simple and unassuming, with basic wooden tables and chairs that are packed tightly together. But what Hashem Restaurant lacks in ambiance, it more than makes up for in the quality of its food. The falafel is always made fresh and served hot, with a crisp exterior and a tender, flavorful interior. It's accompanied by an array of traditional Jordanian sides, such as hummus, foul (a dish made with fava beans), and fresh vegetables.

4. Sufra in Amman:

Sufra is a family-owned restaurant in the trendy Jabal Al-Weibdeh neighborhood of Amman. The menu features a mix of traditional Jordanian dishes and modern fusion cuisine, all made with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients. The standout dishes at Sufra include the kofta (spiced meatballs) and the stuffed vine leaves.

5. Azraq in Azraq:

Located in the small town of Azraq, east of Amman, Azraq is a Bedouin-style restaurant that serves up hearty, traditional dishes like zarb (a type of BBQ) and mansaf. The real draw of Azraq, however, is the stunning natural setting – the restaurant is situated in the middle of the Azraq Wetland Reserve, which is home to a variety of birds and other wildlife.

No matter where your travels in Jordan take you, be sure to keep an eye out for these hidden dining gems. You never know what delicious surprises await you just around the corner.