Madaba, Jordan, is a charming city renowned for its warm hospitality and rich cultural heritage. Nestled just south of the capital, Amman, Madaba welcomes visitors, offering a unique blend of ancient history and modern comfort. Known as the City of Mosaics, it boasts stunning Byzantine mosaics and a vibrant local culture. The hospitality here is heartfelt, with locals eager to share their traditions and culinary delights, from authentic Jordanian dishes to exquisite sweets. Whether exploring historic sites, enjoying the breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, indulging in a culinary scene in the restaurants in Madaba, or relaxing in comfortable accommodations, Madaba's inviting atmosphere makes it a memorable destination for every traveler.
Restaurants in Madaba: Indulge in Jordanian Culinary Affair
Madaba offers a diverse range of restaurants that reflect the city's rich heritage and vibrant culture. Known for its warm hospitality, the local dining scene features everything from traditional Jordanian dishes to Mediterranean and international cuisine. You can enjoy authentic flavors in charming settings, whether in family-run establishments or modern eateries. From hearty meals of mansaf and delicious shawarma to fresh salads and tantalizing mezze, Madaba's restaurants invite you to indulge in a memorable gastronomic experience that showcases the best of Jordanian hospitality. Whether you are seeking a casual bite or a special dining occasion, the city's eateries cater to all tastes and preferences. Here is an overview of the top 10 restaurants in Madaba for an alluring gastronomic experience in the incredible city of Jordan.
- Carob House
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
- Mrah Salameh Restaurant
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Caffe
- FireHouse Restaurant
- Al Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant
- Dana Hills Restaurant
- Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant
- Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket
- King of Pottery Restaurant
1. Carob House
A farm-to-table restaurant, Carob House boasts its community kitchen and cultural space that brings people together to indulge in an enriching experience. To serve clean, hygienic, and nutritious food, this restaurant inspires every food artist, farmer, and guest to value the local produce and create a positive synergy. Experience the indigenous food culture at Carob House, one of the best restaurants in Madaba, Jordan. From heartful soups, mouthwatering salads & mezze platters to delicious desserts, Carob House will promise an enriching food journey. Do not miss out on an incredible farm tour, attending a cooking workshop, and a pop-up dining event; every experience will let you celebrate food at its best.
Location: 8 Princess Zain Bint Al-Hussein, Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 10 PM (Sunday to Thursday)
10 AM to 11 PM (Friday to Saturday)
Must-try Dishes:
- Rashouf
- Lentils Soup
- Eggplant Fatteh
- Braised Lamb Shawerma
- Rashtayeh
- Carob House Chicken
- Mansaf Jareesh
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- Madaba City Mall
- Church of the Martyrs
Hotels Nearby:
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
- Downtown Inn Madaba
- Classy Hotel
- Saint John Hotel
2. Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
While in Madaba, if you are looking to savor the most delicious oriental and Arabic dishes, plan a visit to Madaba Gate Restaurant and Cafe, one of the city's top dining spots. Their menu features a wide array of offerings, including shawarma, hummus, shish tawook, grilled meats, kebabs, grilled chicken wings, falafel, crispy potatoes, fattoush, fish dishes, rice, soups, and much more, alongside delectable oriental sweets and a variety of cold and hot beverages. The ambiance is calm and inviting, with modern and appealing decor, and the service is excellent, ensuring a delightful dining experience. Often considered one of the best restaurants in Jordan, this restaurant will offer you an enriching culinary experience. Do not miss out on trying it out.
Location: Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 11.30 PM
Must-try Dishes:
- Baqdonsieh
- Roca Salad
- Grilled Halloumi
- Bawabit Madaba Chicken
- Fish Fillet with Lemon Sauce
- Spaghetti Bolognese
- Fettuccini with Cream
- Kubeh
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Apostles Church
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
- Al-Masarwa Cathedral Ruins
Hotels Nearby:
- Saint John Hotel
- Downtown Inn Madaba
- Moab Land Hotel
- Queen Ayola Hotel
- Tell Madaba Hotel
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3. Mrah Salameh Restaurant
Mrah Salameh restaurant with its idyllic location serves as the testament to the region's rich history and extensive civilization. Located inside an artistic cave, it features ancient relics and unique symbols carved into the stone, providing a fascinating glimpse into the past. As guests enter the underground restaurant, they are immersed in a setting where history intertwines with culinary excellence. Offering a fusion of Eastern and Western cuisine, Mrah Salameh caters to vegetarians and non-vegetarians and is one of the best restaurants in Madaba. The dimly lit atmosphere fosters a tranquil environment perfect for reflection. Each meal served here is a celebration of this unique dining experience. Do not miss out on the delectable salads known for the fresh veggies seasoned with various herbs.
Location: PQ8Q+W95, Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 11 AM to 12 AM
Must-try Dishes:
- Mushroom Mtaffa
- Sagheya Lamha
- Sagheya Daghagh
- Mrah Salameh Special Salad
- Tabbouleh with Apple
- Hummus with Meat
- Kibdeh
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- Church of the Martyrs
- King Hussain Mosque
Hotels Nearby:
- Downtown Inn Madaba
- Madaba Hotel
- Tell Madaba Hotel
- GMT Residence
- Mosaic City Hotel
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4. Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Caffe
If you want to delve into the fascinating stories of Madaba’s history, Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Cafe is one of the best places to visit in Jordan, which will let you experience the best of Jordanian culture. The 20th-century ancient house was the famed church of Madaba once upon a time, and it has been transformed into a restaurant now. Dine out at the Al-fresco terrace, which is an ideal spot to dig into the delicious food by immersing yourself in the beauty of the charming atmosphere. Best known for its comprehensive Jordanian menu, the restaurant takes pride in serving fresh local produce to the guests, making a nutritious experience in the heart of Madaba. Do not miss out on trying pottery dishes that reflect the traditional cooking techniques and the rich heritage of the region.
Location: Al husain bin ali 11, Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 10.30 AM to 1 AM
Must-try Dishes:
- Jaw Zaman Salad
- Shakshuka
- Maftool Pottery
- Calamari Classic
- Falafel Sandwich
- Tomato with Tahina
- Rocca Salad
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Madaba City Mall
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
- Church of the Martyrs
Hotels Nearby:
- Madaba Hotel
- Pilgrim’s Guest House
- Queen Ayola Hotel
- Moab Land Hotel
- Saint John Hotel
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5. FireHouse Restaurant
Best known for its high-quality meat burgers, FireHouse Restaurant attracts visitors of every age to savor the flavorful delicacies. Here, you can enjoy classic options like a burger served with onion rings and crispy potatoes, grilled hot dogs with mustard sauce, cheeseburgers, Swiss cheese and mushroom burgers, and Mexican burgers. Moreover, they serve chicken wings with buffalo or BBQ sauce, as well as garlic wings topped with parmesan cheese. With a casual and comfortable ambiance, you can have a wonderful time at Firehouse restaurant, the best restaurant in Madaba. Even though the menu is a bit limited, this restaurant promises a wholesome meal and top-notch hospitality throughout the time. Grab a delicious burger and spend quality time with your loved ones here.
Location: Saeed ben al_musayab, Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 12.30 PM to 11 PM
Must-try Dishes:
- Firehouse Angus Burger
- Mozzarella Cheese Sticks
- Firehouse Platter
- Caesar Salad
- The Mexican Burger
- Chicken Nuggets
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Jelly Jump
- Apostles Church
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
Hotels Nearby:
- Coco Guesthouse
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Aitch Boutique Hotel
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
- Downtown Inn Madaba
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6. Al Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant
If you want to enjoy the most delicious Bukhari rice dishes at great prices, Al-Mandi Kitchen and Restaurant in Madaba is the place to go. One of the best things to do in Jordan is to savor a heartful Mandi platter, which comes with flavorful rice and a wide variety of meat. The restaurant offers Mandi, Maghout, and Kabsa dishes with your choice of chicken or meat, fresh soups, salads, and refreshing beverages. The atmosphere is peaceful and pleasant, featuring elegant decor, and the staff is always eager to provide recommendations. Do not miss the chance to savor some of the finest rice dishes, visit, and indulge in everything your heart desires. The dessert variety in Al Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant is remarkable, showcasing the rich traditions of Jordan.
Location: PQ9X+VJ9, Al-Quds St., Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 8 AM to 11 PM
Must-try Dishes:
- Tandoori Chicken
- Barbecue Chicken
- Mandi Platter
- Mansaf
- Lentil Soup
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- Anwar Makkah Mosque
- Al-Masarwa Cathedral Ruins
Hotels Nearby:
- Atich Boutique Hotel
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Madaba Hotel
- Grand Hotel Madaba
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
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7. Dana Hills Restaurant
Dana Hills Restaurant in Madaba offers a delightful dining experience with stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Known for its warm hospitality and inviting atmosphere, the restaurant serves various traditional Jordanian and Mediterranean dishes, making it a favorite among locals and visitors. Guests can enjoy fresh, flavorful meals while soaking in the breathtaking vistas of the nearby hills and valleys. Whether you are looking for a casual outing or a special occasion, Dana Hills Restaurant is one of the best restaurants in Madaba to savor delicious food and create memorable moments. Never miss out on savoring the wide variety of steaks, known for diverse flavors seasoned with distinctive spices and vegetables.
Location: Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 10 AM to 11 PM
Must-try Dishes:
- Grilled Kebab
- Spaghetti Milanize
- Hummos Bel Lahmeh
- Tahina Parsle
- Moutabbal
- Kishkeh
- Lentil Soup
Attractions Nearby:
- Apostles Church
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Anwar Makkah Mosque
- Al-Masarwa Cathedral Ruins
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
Hotels Nearby:
- Tell Madaba Hotel
- Saint John Hotel
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
- Ibn Khaldoon Apartment
- Aitch Boutique Hotel
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8. Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant
Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar and Restaurant has been a popular destination for guests since 2012. Its name reflects its central location at the highest point in Madaba, providing stunning panoramic views. The restaurant boasts a diverse menu featuring traditional and international cuisine, complemented by an excellent selection of local wines and beers. The top-notch hospitality from the staff further enhances the dining experience. Located on the rooftop of Saint John Hotel, it will allow guests to enjoy their accommodation and dining in one place. Grab a seat on the terrace and relax amid the tranquil surroundings while digging into the classic Jordanian dishes at Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant, Madaba, one of the best places to visit in the Middle East.
Location: Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 24/7 Hours
Must-try Dishes:
- Pottery Saint John
- Pottery Daoud Pasha
- Siniet Kefteh with Tihinieh
- Meat Fatija
- Hummus
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
- Church of the Martyrs
Hotels Nearby:
- Saint John Hotel
- Tell Madaba Hotel
- Ibn Khaldoon Apartment
- GMT Residence
- Madaba Hotel
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9. Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket
Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket in Madaba is a charming dining spot that celebrates the rich flavors of traditional Jordanian cuisine. With a warm and inviting atmosphere, this restaurant offers a unique culinary experience, showcasing authentic dishes made from locally sourced ingredients. The menu also features a wide variety of vegetarian dishes. Guests can enjoy several meals, from hearty stews to freshly baked bread, all served in a cozy setting that reflects the essence of Jordanian hospitality. If you are looking for a casual meal or a cultural dining experience, Hikayet Sitti promises to delight your taste buds while providing a glimpse into the region's culinary heritage. Do not miss out on savoring a delicious Mezze platter at Hikayet Sitti, one of the top restaurants in Madaba.
Location: PQ9R+CJC, Khaled Ben Al-Walid St., Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 9 AM to 10 PM
Must-try Dishes:
- Vegetarian Maglouba
- Hummus
- Mezze
- Freyah
- Stuffed Zucchini
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- St. John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church
- Al-Masarwa Cathedral Ruins
Hotels Nearby:
- Saint John Hotel
- Tell Madaba Hotel
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
- Madaba Hotel
- Downtown Inn Madaba
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10. King of Pottery Restaurant
King of Pottery Restaurant in Madaba is a renowned restaurant known for its unique blend of traditional Jordanian dishes and a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Nestled in the heart of the city, this restaurant showcases the region's rich culinary heritage, offering a variety of flavorful meals, including succulent grilled meats, aromatic rice dishes, and fresh salads. The restaurant’s charming decor, inspired by local pottery, adds to its inviting ambiance. Be it having a wholesome meal with family or friends, King of Pottery Restaurant promises a memorable dining experience filled with authentic flavors and exceptional hospitality. Often considered one of the best restaurants in Madaba, Jordan, King of Pottery Restaurant is an ideal go-to restaurant for every local in the city.
Location: PQ8V+XHJ, K. Talal St., Madaba, Jordan
Opening Hours: 24/7
Must-try Dishes:
- Caesar Salad
- Fatija
- Chicken Shawarma
- Kofta Tahini
- Freekeh
- Moutabbel
Attractions Nearby:
- Madaba Archaeological Park
- Madaba Archaeological Museum
- Apostles Church
- Tell Madaba West Acropolis
- Church of the Martyrs
Hotels Nearby:
- Madaba Hotel
- Downtown Inn Madaba
- Mosaic City Hotel
- Mount Nebo Hotel & Restaurant Madaba City Center
- Aitch Boutique Hotel
Madaba, being a hidden gem of Jordan, will promise you an incredible cultural experience apart from witnessing the grandeur of the historical landmarks. Embarking on a culinary voyage in this alluring city will enhance your cultural experience. Since the city is home to a myriad of cafes and restaurants, serving locals and visitors for quite a very long time, you will experience unmatched hospitality here. Explore the top restaurants in Madaba to relish the authentic Jordanian flavors and understand the familiarity and differences with Middle Eastern cuisine. Choose from the best Jordan tour packages with us at affordable rates, and you can look forward to an enriching cultural odyssey. Leave your worries behind and plan a vacation in this enchanting city of Jordan.
Restaurants in Madaba FAQs
Madaba is famous for its stunning Byzantine mosaics, particularly the Madaba Map, an ancient mosaic map of the Holy Land in St. George's Church. The city is also known for its rich history and proximity to historical sites like Mount Nebo.
The cafe culture in Madaba is a living testament to the city’s rich history. Discover fascinating tales and delve into its rich heritage by embarking on a culinary journey. The top 5 cafes in Madaba are:
- Coffee Shop of the Church of St. George
- Café Dardash
- Haret Jdoudna Café
- The Olive Branch Café
- Nabatean Café
The best dessert in Madaba is kunafa, a traditional sweet made with thin noodle-like pastry soaked in syrup and layered with cheese or cream, often topped with pistachios.
Since Madaba is best known for its rich history and heritage, you can indulge in several activities to experience the best of the city. From exploring the historical sites and trying out the local dishes to shopping in the souqs, you will find plenty of things to do.
- Visit St. George's Church to see the Madaba Map.
- Explore the archaeological park with its ancient mosaics.
- Take a trip to Mount Nebo for panoramic views.
- Discover the Madaba Mosaic Museum.
- Wander through the local markets for handicrafts.
The best time to visit Madaba is from March to May and September to November when the weather is mild and pleasant, ideal for exploring outdoor attractions. Avoid the summer season due to unfavorable weather conditions.
A trip to Madaba can typically be enjoyed in 2 to 3 days, allowing enough time to explore the main attractions and nearby sites. Moreover, you can even extend the trip based on your preferences.
The nearest airport to Madaba is Queen Alia International Airport (AMM), located about 30 kilometers (18 miles) to the southern part of the city.
For breakfast in Madaba, try foul or fava beans served with olive oil, fresh bread, and local cheeses, or enjoy shakshuka, a flavorful dish of poached eggs in a spicy tomato sauce.
Madaba is best known for baking art, showcased through handcrafted products.From artistic pastries and delicious cakes to mouthwatering donuts.
- Al-Baik Bakery
- Anabtawi Sweets Madaba
- Planet Donuts
- AlJouri Grand Bakeries
- Habiba Sweet
Most major tourist attractions, such as Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea, are within a 30 to 45-minute drive from Madaba, making them easily accessible for day trips.