Quick answer
For an authentic taste of home-cooked Jordanian food in a welcoming setting, My Mom's Recipe Restaurant consistently earns top marks from visitors.
- Best overall
- My Mom's Recipe Restaurant
- Best budget
- Al Wadi Restaurant
- Best experience
- Petra Kitchen
- Last verified
- 2026-03
How we picked these
Our selection of the best Jordanian cuisine around Petra was curated through extensive research, analyzing top-rated local establishments, tourist reviews, and expert recommendations. We prioritized venues offering authentic flavors, exceptional service, and unique dining experiences, ensuring a diverse range of options from budget-friendly local eateries to immersive cultural experiences.
My Mom's Recipe Restaurant
True to its name, My Mom's Recipe delivers heartwarming, home-style Jordanian dishes that taste like they came straight from a local kitchen. The atmosphere is cozy and unpretentious, making it a favorite for travelers seeking authentic flavors without the tourist trap feel. Expect generous portions and friendly service.
🍽️ What to order
Mansaf (often available by pre-order or on specific days), Maqluba
💡 Insider tip
They can get busy during peak dinner hours, so arriving a bit earlier or later can help you secure a table without a long wait. Don't be shy to ask for daily specials!
"My Mom's Recipe was seriously the best food we had in Petra. The Mansaf at My Mom's Recipe was just incredible, tasted like real home cooking."— r/travel user
Petra Kitchen
More than just a restaurant, Petra Kitchen offers an immersive cooking experience where guests learn to prepare traditional Jordanian dishes from local chefs. After preparing, everyone gathers to enjoy the feast they've helped create. It's a fantastic way to engage with the culture and savor your own culinary creations.
🍽️ What to order
Whatever you cook! Typically includes dishes like Meze starters, a main course (e.g., Galayet Bandora, Mansaf), and a dessert.
💡 Insider tip
Book your spot in advance, especially during high season, as classes fill up quickly. Come hungry and ready to participate!
"The Petra Kitchen was a highlight of our trip! Learning to make Mansaf and then eating it fresh was an experience I'll never forget. Highly recommend Petra Kitchen."— r/food user
Orient Restaurant
A popular choice for both locals and tourists, Orient Restaurant offers a wide menu of classic Jordanian and Middle Eastern fare in a spacious, comfortable setting. Known for its consistent quality and friendly service, it's a reliable spot for a hearty meal after a long day of exploring Petra. They often have outdoor seating with views of the town.
🍽️ What to order
Chicken Maqluba, Mezze Platter (Hummus, Mutabal, Falafel)
💡 Insider tip
They have a fresh juice bar; try the lemon with mint for a refreshing treat. Portions are generous, so consider sharing starters.
"Orient Restaurant was a solid choice for dinner. The Mezze Platter at Orient was huge and everything tasted fresh."— r/travel user
Al Qantara Restaurant
Located conveniently close to the Petra entrance, Al Qantara offers a refined dining experience with a menu that blends traditional Jordanian dishes with some international options. The interior is tastefully decorated, providing a pleasant ambiance for a relaxed meal. Their grilled meats are particularly well-regarded.
🍽️ What to order
Mixed Grill, Shish Tawook
💡 Insider tip
Great option for lunch if you want to eat well before heading into Petra or right after your visit without going far into town.
"After a long day in Petra, Al Qantara Restaurant was perfect. The mixed grill was fantastic and they have great service."— r/petra user
Red Cave Restaurant
Red Cave Restaurant is a bustling local eatery known for its delicious and affordable Jordanian comfort food. It's a no-frills spot where you can enjoy tasty shawarmas, falafel, and a variety of grilled dishes. It’s perfect for a quick, satisfying, and authentically local meal.
🍽️ What to order
Chicken Shawarma, Lamb Kebab
💡 Insider tip
It's a great spot for a casual lunch or a quick dinner. Don't miss their fresh bread.
"Grabbed a shawarma from Red Cave Restaurant and it hit the spot. Best cheap eats around Petra hands down."— r/food user
Sanabel Restaurant
Sanabel Restaurant offers a welcoming atmosphere and a diverse menu catering to various tastes, including good vegetarian options. They pride themselves on fresh ingredients and traditional recipes, providing a solid dining experience for families and groups. The service is often praised for its attentiveness.
🍽️ What to order
Vegetarian Dolma, Lentil Soup
💡 Insider tip
They often have fresh juices and a nice selection of local sweets to finish your meal.
"Sanabel Restaurant had some surprisingly good vegetarian options for my friend. My lentil soup was amazing there."— r/travel user
Al Wadi Restaurant
For those seeking an authentic and budget-friendly meal, Al Wadi Restaurant is a local gem. It's a simple establishment popular with local workers and savvy tourists, serving up hearty, no-frills Jordanian dishes at unbeatable prices. Expect basic seating but delicious, genuine food.
🍽️ What to order
Falafel Plate, Ful Medames, Hummus with Meat
💡 Insider tip
A perfect spot for a quick, cheap, and filling breakfast or lunch before/after your Petra visit. Don't expect fancy, just good.
"Al Wadi Restaurant was our go-to for breakfast every morning. So cheap and the falafel was incredible."— r/petra user
The Cave Bar
While primarily a bar, The Cave Bar at the Petra Guesthouse offers a unique dining experience within a 2,000-year-old Nabataean tomb. It's an atmospheric spot for drinks and light snacks, with some limited hot food options, making it perfect for an evening unwind. The historical setting is truly unparalleled.
🍽️ What to order
Mezze Platter, local beer (Amstel/Petra beer)
💡 Insider tip
Come here for the unparalleled ambiance and a drink after your Petra visit. Food options are limited but decent for the setting.
"Having a beer in The Cave Bar after hiking all day in Petra was just epic. The atmosphere in The Cave Bar is something else."— r/travel user
Movenpick Resort Petra Al Iwan Restaurant
Located within the luxurious Movenpick Resort right at the entrance to Petra, Al Iwan offers a lavish buffet spread featuring both Jordanian specialties and international cuisine. It's an excellent choice for those seeking an upscale, comfortable dining experience with a wide variety of high-quality dishes. Perfect for a celebratory meal.
🍽️ What to order
Their extensive buffet allows you to sample many dishes; look for live cooking stations.
💡 Insider tip
Great option for a substantial dinner after a long day of exploring Petra. The desserts are particularly noteworthy.
"The buffet at Movenpick Al Iwan Restaurant was probably the best hotel food I've had in Jordan. Worth the splurge for the variety."— r/food user
Za'atar Restaurant
Za'atar Restaurant offers a casual, family-friendly atmosphere with a menu that blends traditional Jordanian dishes with surprisingly good pizzas and other international favorites. It's a versatile choice if your group has varying preferences, ensuring everyone finds something they'll enjoy. Their fresh za'atar bread is a must-try.
🍽️ What to order
Za'atar Mankoushe, Mixed Grill, Local Pizza
💡 Insider tip
They have great fresh juices and a cozy, relaxed vibe, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
"We went to Za'atar Restaurant because half our group wanted Jordanian and the other wanted pizza. Everyone was happy, and their za'atar bread was addictive!"— r/travel user
Petra Nights Restaurant
Petra Nights Restaurant is a spacious establishment often catering to tour groups but also welcoming independent travelers. They offer a reliable menu of Jordanian classics, specializing in Bedouin-style dishes like Zarb (cooked underground). The service is efficient, and the setting is comfortable, making it a good choice for a traditional meal.
🍽️ What to order
Zarb (check availability), Lamb Mansaf
💡 Insider tip
If you're interested in Zarb, call ahead to see if they are serving it that evening, as it requires long preparation.
"Our tour group went to Petra Nights Restaurant and the Zarb was incredible. Definitely try the Zarb if you can at Petra Nights."— r/food user
Taybet Zaman Restaurant
Located in the beautifully restored Taybet Zaman village, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience in a historic, rustic setting. The food focuses on authentic Jordanian cuisine, often served buffet-style, allowing guests to sample a variety of traditional dishes. It’s an experience that combines history, culture, and gastronomy, though it requires a short drive from Wadi Musa.
🍽️ What to order
Buffet selection, which often includes local stews, salads, and traditional sweets.
💡 Insider tip
Consider visiting Taybet Zaman Village for the full cultural experience, including exploring the old village before your meal. It’s best accessed by taxi.
"Dining at Taybet Zaman Restaurant was like stepping back in time. The food was delicious and the village setting was so charming."— r/travel user
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
What is the national dish of Jordan and where can I try it in Petra?
The national dish of Jordan is Mansaf, a flavorful dish of lamb cooked in a fermented dried yogurt sauce (jameed) and served with rice and nuts. You can find excellent Mansaf at traditional restaurants like My Mom's Recipe Restaurant and Petra Nights Restaurant, though it's sometimes prepared on specific days or for groups.
Are there good vegetarian options available in Petra?
Yes, Jordanian cuisine is very vegetarian-friendly. Many traditional dishes are plant-based, such as hummus, mutabal (eggplant dip), falafel, fattoush salad, lentil soup, and various bean or vegetable stews. Restaurants like Sanabel Restaurant and My Mom's Recipe Restaurant offer a good selection of vegetarian dishes.
What are typical prices for a meal in Petra (Wadi Musa)?
Meal prices vary depending on the type of restaurant. A budget-friendly local meal (like falafel or shawarma) can cost 5-10 JOD ($7-14). Mid-range restaurants typically charge 10-20 JOD ($14-28) per person for a main course and perhaps a drink. Upscale dining or hotel buffets might range from 25-40 JOD ($35-56) per person.
Can I experience a cooking class in Petra?
Absolutely! Petra Kitchen offers an excellent hands-on cooking experience where you learn to prepare several traditional Jordanian dishes and then enjoy the meal you've made. It's a highly recommended cultural and culinary activity that combines learning with a delicious dinner.
What local sweets or desserts should I try in Petra?
Be sure to try Kanafeh, a warm pastry made with thin noodle-like dough or semolina, soaked in sweet syrup, and typically layered with cheese. Other popular sweets include Baklava (layered pastry with nuts and syrup) and Harissa (semolina cake). Many local bakeries and restaurants will offer these.
Is it customary to tip in restaurants in Petra?
Tipping is appreciated in Jordan. While not strictly mandatory, it's customary to leave a tip of 5-10% in sit-down restaurants if you are satisfied with the service. For smaller, casual eateries, rounding up the bill or leaving a few small coins is usually sufficient.
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