Quick answer
Books@Cafe stands out as the ultimate spot for drinking Arabic coffee with cardamom on Rainbow Street, offering iconic views, a vibrant atmosphere, and a rich cultural experience.
- Best overall
- Books@Cafe
- Best budget
- Ammar Cafe
- Best experience
- Rumi Cafe
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of Rainbow Street's best cafes, galleries, and bookshops for Arabic coffee with cardamom was meticulously researched. We focused on local favorites, unique atmospheres, and genuine reviews, prioritizing venues that embody the bohemian spirit of the neighborhood while offering an authentic coffee experience.
Books@Cafe
Amman's pioneering bookshop-cafe, a beloved institution offering panoramic city views. Its lively atmosphere, diverse menu, and extensive book collection make it a hub for locals and tourists alike, perfect for a long read or a vibrant evening out.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee with Cardamom, Lemon-Mint Juice
๐ก Insider tip
Go for sunset views from the terrace; it gets very busy, so consider an earlier visit if you want a quiet spot.
"Books@Cafe is an absolute Amman staple. Grab an Arabic coffee and a book, then watch the city lights come alive. Don't miss the balcony!"โ r/Amman user
Rumi Cafe
๐ Open now
Nestled in a charming old house, Rumi Cafe exudes a cozy, bohemian vibe with its art-filled walls and relaxed seating. It's a favorite for its strong, aromatic Arabic coffee and a quiet escape from the bustle. Often hosts small poetry readings or acoustic sessions.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee (Qahwa Sada), Date Cake
๐ก Insider tip
Seating is limited, especially on weekends. Try to snag a spot in the inner courtyard if the weather is nice.
"Rumi Cafe has the best Arabic coffee on Rainbow Street, hands down. It's so atmospheric, feels like stepping into a friend's artistic living room."โ r/travel user
Wild Jordan Center
Part of the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, this cafe offers unparalleled panoramic views of old Amman and the Citadel. Enjoy sustainably sourced food and beverages while supporting local communities and conservation efforts. The terrace is breathtaking.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Wild Greens Salad
๐ก Insider tip
Visit during the day to fully appreciate the stunning views. Parking can be tricky, so consider a taxi or walking.
"The views from Wild Jordan Center are insane! Had an Arabic coffee there and just stared out at the Citadel for an hour. So peaceful."โ r/Amman user
Shams El Balad
Housed in a beautifully restored old building, Shams El Balad is renowned for its farm-to-table Levantine cuisine and a serene courtyard garden. While known for brunch, their Arabic coffee is excellent and the ambiance is unmatched for a relaxed morning or afternoon.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Foul Medames, Halloumi with Figs
๐ก Insider tip
It's extremely popular for breakfast and brunch on Fridays and Saturdays; make a reservation or arrive early.
"Shams El Balad is my go-to for a proper Amman breakfast and a strong Arabic coffee. The garden is a little oasis."โ r/food user
Turtle Green Tea Bar
๐ Closed now
Though famous for its extensive tea selection, Turtle Green also serves a delightful Arabic coffee in a quirky, vibrant setting. Its artistic decor and friendly atmosphere make it a popular spot for students and creatives to unwind.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Moroccan Mint Tea, Banana Bread
๐ก Insider tip
They have board games available, making it a great spot for a relaxed afternoon with friends.
"I usually go to Turtle Green for tea, but their Arabic coffee hits different on a chilly evening. Love the vibe there."โ r/Amman user
Jameeda Cafe
A relatively newer addition to the Rainbow Street scene, Jameeda Cafe offers a chic, minimalist design and a fresh take on the cafe experience. It's a great spot for both traditional Arabic coffee and modern espresso drinks, often attracting a younger, trendy crowd.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Cold Brew
๐ก Insider tip
They often host small art exhibitions or pop-up events, so check their social media for current happenings.
"Jameeda Cafe is super sleek and serves a really good Arabic coffee. Great spot if you want something a bit more modern than the traditional places."โ r/travel user
Manara Arts & Culture
๐ Open now
More than just a cafe, Manara is a vibrant arts and culture hub that frequently hosts workshops, discussions, and exhibitions. Their small, welcoming cafe serves excellent Arabic coffee, providing a reflective space amidst creative inspiration.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, local pastries
๐ก Insider tip
Check their event schedule online. You might catch a poetry reading or an interesting panel discussion while enjoying your coffee.
"Loved grabbing an Arabic coffee at Manara Arts & Culture. It's such an inspiring space, always something interesting happening."โ r/Amman user
The Space (Art Gallery & Cafe)
An intimate art gallery that cleverly integrates a cozy cafe, The Space offers a unique blend of visual arts and culinary delights. Sip on rich Arabic coffee while browsing local and regional artworks, making for a truly immersive cultural experience.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, date cookies
๐ก Insider tip
The exhibits change regularly, so there's always something new to discover. Ask the staff about the current artists featured.
"Found The Space by accident and loved it. Great Arabic coffee and got to see some amazing local art. Two birds, one stone!"โ r/food user
Kafemam
A quaint and friendly neighborhood cafe known for its welcoming atmosphere and excellent coffee. Kafemam is a favorite among locals for a quiet work session or a casual chat over a perfectly brewed cup of Arabic coffee.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Croissant
๐ก Insider tip
It's a great spot to catch up on emails or read, as it's generally quieter than some of the larger cafes on Rainbow Street itself.
"Kafemam has such a chill vibe and their Arabic coffee is exactly what I need to start my day. Very unassuming but consistently good."โ r/Amman user
Ola's Cafe
A charming, sun-drenched cafe offering a delightful menu of fresh juices, light meals, and, of course, authentic Arabic coffee. Ola's Cafe has a bright, airy interior and a lovely outdoor seating area, perfect for people-watching.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, Shakshuka
๐ก Insider tip
They have fantastic breakfast options if you're looking for more than just coffee. Their fresh juices are also a must-try.
"Ola's Cafe is super cute and their Arabic coffee with a pastry is my perfect afternoon pick-me-up. Always get a good spot outside."โ r/travel user
Ammar Cafe
For a more traditional, no-frills local experience, Ammar Cafe offers a glimpse into everyday Amman life. It's a classic local hangout where you can enjoy strong, authentic Arabic coffee alongside friendly chatter and a genuine community feel.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee (Qahwa Saada)
๐ก Insider tip
Don't expect fancy decor; come here for the authentic local atmosphere and the unpretentious, excellent coffee.
"Ammar Cafe is where the locals go. Best no-nonsense Arabic coffee if you want a real Amman experience, not just a tourist spot."โ r/Amman user
La Locanda Boutique Hotel (Cafe)
Tucked within a boutique hotel, the cafe at La Locanda offers a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere, often featuring live music in the evenings. It's a sophisticated spot to enjoy Arabic coffee and immerse yourself in the creative energy of the neighborhood.
๐ฝ๏ธ What to order
Arabic Coffee, fresh juices
๐ก Insider tip
Check their schedule for live music performances, which often feature local artists and add a unique charm to the evening.
"The cafe at La Locanda is a hidden gem on Rainbow Street. Great Arabic coffee and sometimes you get treated to some live tunes. Perfect chill spot."โ r/travel user
โ Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Arabic coffee, and how is it traditionally served?
Arabic coffee, known as 'Qahwa' or 'Qahwa Sada' (plain coffee), is a strong, dark roast, often prepared without sugar and traditionally flavored with cardamom. It's typically brewed in a 'dallah' (a special coffee pot) and served in small, handle-less cups called 'finjan', usually accompanied by dates to balance its bitterness. It's a symbol of hospitality and often served in three sips.
Why is cardamom so important in Arabic coffee?
Cardamom is a vital ingredient in Arabic coffee, adding a distinctive aromatic and slightly spicy flavor that beautifully complements the robust coffee beans. Beyond taste, cardamom is believed to aid digestion and is culturally significant, enhancing the ceremonial aspect of serving and drinking coffee. It's often ground fresh and added during the brewing process.
When is the best time to visit Rainbow Street to enjoy the cafes and atmosphere?
Rainbow Street is vibrant throughout the day, but the late afternoon and evening are particularly popular. As the sun sets, the street comes alive with locals and tourists, and the cafes and terraces offer stunning views of the city lights. Weekends (Friday and Saturday in Jordan) are bustling, while weekdays offer a slightly more relaxed pace.
Are there other attractions or things to do on Rainbow Street besides drinking coffee at cafes?
Absolutely! Rainbow Street is a cultural hub offering much more than just cafes. You can explore various art galleries, boutique shops selling local crafts, and historical buildings. There are also street food vendors, particularly during the summer's Souk Jara (a local market), and it's a great street for people-watching and soaking in Amman's bohemian spirit.
What's the typical price range for a cup of Arabic coffee in Amman's Rainbow Street cafes?
The price for a cup of Arabic coffee on Rainbow Street generally ranges from 2 JOD to 5 JOD ($3 to $7 USD), depending on the cafe's ambiance and prestige. More traditional, no-frills spots will be on the lower end, while upscale cafes or those with panoramic views might charge a bit more.
Can I find non-caffeinated or alternative drink options at these cafes?
Yes, most cafes on Rainbow Street, even those specializing in Arabic coffee, offer a variety of non-caffeinated options. You can usually find fresh juices (like lemon-mint), various herbal teas, soft drinks, and sometimes unique local beverages. Don't hesitate to ask the staff for their recommendations.
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