Petra, the ancient rose-red city carved into the cliffs of southern Jordan, is not just a feast for the eyes but can be a gastronomic journey for the adventurous foodie. The restaurants here are more than just places to eat; they are capsules of culture, offering a taste of the Bedouin hospitality and the Jordanian zest for life. Let’s dive into the culinary landscape of Petra, with a focus on quality, ambiance, and authenticity that transcends the typical tourist traps.
What to Eat in Petra
Learn about the best restaurants in Petra, Jordan and what they offer.
– Petra Kitchen offers authentic Jordanian cuisine and cooking classes.
– Al-Wadi Restaurant provides traditional Arabic dishes and a cozy atmosphere.
– The Cave Bar offers a unique dining experience in a historic setting.
Petra Kitchen
Insider Tip: Participate in their cooking class for an immersive culinary experience.
Petra Kitchen is not merely a restaurant; it’s a cultural immersion. Here, the wafting scents of sumac, za’atar, and fresh pita bread are just the beginning. I remember rolling grape leaves and savoring the sharp tang of labneh, surrounded by fellow travelers equally entranced by the Jordanian flavors. The setting is informal yet intimate, a communal table where stories and dishes are shared. Petra Kitchen is a place that entices you to not just eat, but to engage with the very essence of Jordanian cuisine.
Petra Kitchen Cooking Experience
Al-Wadi Restaurant
Al-Wadi Restaurant offers a menu that’s a testament to Petra’s rich history—a blend of Nabatean, Arabic, and Mediterranean influences. Their mansaf, a traditional Jordanian dish of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur, is a revelation. The lamb, tender and flavorful, speaks to the restaurant’s commitment to quality. Al-Wadi’s ambiance, with its Bedouin-style seating and panoramic views, complements the dining experience, turning a meal here into an unforgettable Petra memory.
Al Qantarah
In a narrow street leading up to the entrance of the Petra site, Al Qantarah is a gem hidden in plain sight. The mezze platter here is a colorful canvas of Middle Eastern flavors. Each dip and salad is a vibrant stroke of culinary artistry, from the smoky baba ganoush to the zesty tabbouleh. Dining at Al Qantarah is like visiting an old friend’s home, where every dish served is a warm gesture of hospitality. It’s a must-visit for those seeking a taste of local life with their historical exploration.
The Cave Bar
Insider Tip: Try their signature cocktail, the Petra Sunset, as you soak in the ancient atmosphere.
Carved out of a 2000-year-old Nabatean rock tomb, The Cave Bar is more than just a place to grab a drink—it’s an experience. The ambiance here is steeped in history, with walls that whisper tales of the past. It’s the perfect spot to unwind after a day of exploring Petra, with a menu that includes both Jordanian wines and international favorites. The Cave Bar’s unique setting and relaxed vibe offer a surreal backdrop to reflect on the wonders of Petra with a glass in hand.
The Basin Restaurant
Nestled within the Petra Archaeological Park, The Basin Restaurant is a convenient stop for those traversing the ancient city. The buffet here is a showcase of Jordanian abundance, with a spread that ranges from crisp salads to hearty mains. The local lamb dishes, slow-cooked to perfection, are particularly noteworthy. The Basin isn’t just about refueling; it’s about pausing amidst Petra’s grandeur to savor the flavors that have been part of this landscape for centuries.
The Basin Restaurant in Petra Archaeological Park
My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant
There’s something deeply comforting about a place called My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant. It’s not just a clever name; the food here has the soul-satisfying quality of a home-cooked meal. The magloubeh, a dish of rice, vegetables, and chicken or lamb, flipped upside down before serving, is a standout, embodying the warmth of Jordanian home cuisine. Dining here is like being let in on a family secret, one delicious bite at a time.
My Mom’s Recipe Restaurant Facebook Page
Al-Arabi Restaurant
Al-Arabi Restaurant, with its generous portions and lively atmosphere, is where traditional Jordanian hospitality shines brightest. Their grilled meats are infused with a blend of spices that are both bold and balanced, a true reflection of Jordan’s culinary heritage. The falafel here is crispy on the outside, tender on the inside, and utterly addictive. Al-Arabi is not just a meal; it’s a celebration of the generous spirit that defines Petra’s local cuisine.
Al-Arabi Restaurant Information
Unforgettable Family Dinner at Petra Kitchen
Last summer, my family and I had the pleasure of visiting Petra, Jordan. We had heard about the renowned Petra Kitchen and decided to experience it for ourselves. Upon arriving, we were greeted with warm hospitality and a vibrant atmosphere. The cooking class was a hands-on experience, allowing us to learn how to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes from expert chefs.
The best part was enjoying the fruits of our labor as we sat down for a family-style dinner with the other participants. The flavors of the Mansaf and Maqluba were truly unforgettable, and the sense of community at the dinner table made the experience even more special. This unique culinary experience not only allowed us to savor authentic Jordanian cuisine but also provided insight into the country’s rich cultural heritage.
Our evening at Petra Kitchen remains a cherished memory, and I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Petra. It’s not just a meal; it’s an opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and create lasting memories with your loved ones.
Petra Moon Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant
The Petra Moon Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant offers a dining scene that is as much about the panoramic views as it is about the food. Here, you can gaze upon the Petra mountains while dining under the stars. Their menu features both local and international dishes, but the Jordanian mezze is the highlight, a perfect starter to any meal. Enjoying a sunset here with the backdrop of ancient Petra is an experience that lingers long after the last bite.
Petra Moon Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant Experience
Petra Silk Road Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant
At the Petra Silk Road Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant, the name itself suggests a blend of cultures and flavors. The Silk Road was all about the exchange of goods and ideas, and this restaurant embodies that spirit in its menu. The lamb tagine, slow-cooked to fall-off-the-bone tenderness, is a dish that encapsulates the culinary crossroads that is Petra. Dine here for a taste of history reimagined on a plate.
Petra Silk Road Hotel Official Site
Petra Guest House Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant
The Petra Guest House Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant is a place where the ambiance competes with the food for your attention. The twinkling lights of Petra at night provide a magical setting for a meal. The restaurant’s take on the Jordanian staple, maqluba, is a must-try, with layers of vegetables, rice, and meat that tell a story of the land and its people. It’s a dining experience that captures the essence of Petra, both ancient and alive.
Petra Guest House Hotel Dining
Petra Sella Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant
Dining at the Petra Sella Hotel Roof Garden Restaurant is like being on top of the world, looking out over the Petra valley. The menu here offers a fusion of local and international cuisine, but it’s the Jordanian dishes that truly shine. The zarb, meat and vegetables cooked in an underground pit, is an exquisite taste of Bedouin tradition. This is where you come to feast on both the food and the views.
Petra Sella Hotel Restaurant Experience
More on Jordan:
Jordan’s culinary landscape is as diverse and captivating as its history. From the street food vendors in Amman to the seaside restaurants of Aqaba, there’s a story in every dish and a taste of tradition in every bite. As you venture beyond Petra, keep your palate open and your sense of adventure hungry.
In conclusion, Petra’s restaurants are more than just places to eat; they are chapters in a culinary narrative that spans centuries. Each establishment offers a unique perspective on Jordanian cuisine, whether through a traditional dish passed down through generations or an innovative fusion that speaks to the country’s evolving palate. As you explore the wonders of Petra, make sure to savor the flavors as much as the sights, for they are an integral part of the journey—a delicious reminder that to truly know a place, one must also know its food.
Questions and Answers
Q. Who can recommend good restaurants in Petra?
A. Travel guides and local residents can recommend great dining spots in Petra.
Q. What are some popular restaurants in Petra?
A. The Red Cave Restaurant, Petra Kitchen, and The Basin Restaurant are popular choices.
Q. How can I find the best places to eat in Petra?
A. Research online, ask locals, or consult travel forums for recommendations on dining in Petra.
Q. What if I have dietary restrictions in Petra?
A. Many restaurants in Petra offer vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options to cater to various dietary needs.
Q. How can I make reservations at restaurants in Petra?
A. It’s advisable to call ahead or use online reservation platforms to secure a table at Petra’s restaurants.
Q. Where can I find affordable dining options in Petra?
A. Look for local eateries and street food vendors for affordable and delicious dining experiences in Petra.
