Madaba, Jordan is an historic city having people with friendly souls and a high value for significant cultural heritage. The city is a mix of ancient heritage and modern comforts. Often referred to as the "City of Mosaics," it is fabulous for its beautiful Byzantine mosaics and full of lively local culture. That warmth and friendliness characterize the people of Madaba, willing not only to share traditions but also their hospitable food with respect to a mixture of delicious foods. Whether visiting historical places, enjoying breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape, or trying local delicacies in one of the restaurants in Madaba, there is something for everyone.
Must-Visit 10 Restaurants in Madaba for Every Food Lover
Madaba is full of restaurants that run citywide, epitomizing the grand richness and vibrancy of the city. The traditional Jordanian meal as well as the Mediterranean and international foods are all enjoyed with the family atmosphere, keeping the local dining warm and hospitable in a family-owned restaurant or modern place. Mansaf, the traditional Jordanian staple, is also a popular dish at some of the tables. Shawarma, fresh salads, and mezze complete the list of gastronomic treats to be enjoyed in Madaba. The best time to visit Madaba is during the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) months, when the weather is pleasant and ideal for exploring the city. If you are ever in Madaba, visiting the top 10 restaurants in Madaba will give you a delicious taste of this incredible city.
- Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant
- King of Pottery Restaurant
- Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket
- FireHouse Restaurant
- Dana Hills Restaurant
- Al Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant
- Carob House
- Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Caffe
- Mrah Salameh Restaurant
- Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
1. Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant
Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar and Restaurant is one of the popular destinations to be visited since 2012. Its name describes the panoramic view that the guests can feast on. The menu here offers a nice mix of traditional Jordanian diet side by side with the International Cuisine, has a good range of local wines and other beverages. Friendly and attentive staff add even more flavor to this dining experience. Situated atop the rooftop of the Saint John Hotel, this is a very convenient location from where you will be able to relax and enjoy your stay with the taste of flavorsome food. Not a matter whether you eat indoor or are sitting down at a table on the outdoor terrace, enjoy the serene surroundings and classic Jordanian flavors during your visit here. Rabwat Madaba Sky Bar & Restaurant is probably one of the best restaurants in Madaba with a view, to experience great food and beautiful views in the heart of 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
2. King of Pottery Restaurant
The King of Pottery Restaurant in Madaba is loved by the locals and visitors alike for the blend of authentic Jordanian flavor with a warm feeling about it. Located right at the heart of the city, it mainly deals with all sorts of tasty dishes, such as soft grilled meats, aromatic rice, and refreshing salads. The interior decoration in this restaurant was inspired by local pottery. Whether you go there with family, friends, or alone, King of Pottery can delight with its authentic Jordanian tastes and efficient service. Besides being one of the greatest restaurant venues in town, Madaba locals and visitors equally prefer to dine here. There are few restaurants that can locally reflect Jordanian culture and hospitality, but surely this one is on that list. It is the perfect place to enjoy a comforting and memorable meal in the heart of Madaba. If you're planning a trip to explore Madaba and beyond, consider booking flights to Aqaba for easy access to this beautiful region.
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
Suggested Read: New Year in Jordan: Celebrate a One of a Kind New Year
3. Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket
Hikayet Sitti – Food Basket in Madaba offers intimate dining that serves up the flavors of old Jordanian food. This cozy place offers true-to-life, locally cooked preparations of rich stews and freshly baked bread, among other dishes. Actually, there are many great vegetarian options on the menu. Whether you like to indulge in the cozy dinner or dig into regional culinary heritage, Hikayet Sitti makes you feel the taste of Jordanian hospitality. Mezze platters at the restaurant, laden with an assortment of small dishes, always come out as the best around and do great when shared with others. It's homely food, plus it's great food, making it a great spot to get back into the vast food culture of Madaba. Do not miss this meal; it is one of the wonderful places to visit in Jordan to savor the flavor of Jordan.
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
Suggested Read: Cafes in Jordan to Enjoy the Jordanian Culture
4. FireHouse Restaurant
The FireHouse Restaurant at Madaba has good-tasting, quality hamburgers that are accessible to all ages. There are different flavors within the menu from the classic burgers with onion rings, crispy potatoes, to grilled hot dogs made with mustard sauce and unique options like Swiss cheese/mushroom burgers or spicy Mexican ones. For chicken lovers, there are fantastic wings that come either in buffalo or BBQ sauce and garlic wings with parmesan cheese. This restaurant is ideal for a family meal or friends because its casual and cozy atmosphere makes this a place to bond over a pretty relaxed meal. Though burgers and comfort food are the real stars of the menu, FireHouse promises a meal that would surely fill your stomach with personalized service. It's definitely one of the top restaurants in Madaba for a laid-back, satisfying dining experience.
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
Suggested Read: Shopping in Jordan: A Complete Beginners Guide
5. Dana Hills Restaurant
The most memorable dining experience offered is from the restaurant itself, known as Dana Hills Restaurant, which provides a splendid view of the surrounding hills and valleys. A hospitality-filled restaurant offering traditional Jordanian and Mediterranean dishes to locals and visitors alike offers an experience of fresh-tasting food in glorious scenery. It doesn't matter whether it's a regular dinner or a special occasion - Dana Hills invites you with pleasant ambiance and marvelous food. One of the best portions on the menu is the presentation of steaks, prepared with a special type of seasoning and various types of vegetables. Dana Hills Restaurant is definitely one of the top things to do in Madaba for a truly memorable experience.
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
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Jordan: Amusing Activities for a Memorable Vacation
6. Al Mandi Kitchen & Restaurant
If you are looking for the best and delicious Bukhari rice delicacies at reasonable prices, you should visit Al-Mandi Kitchen and Restaurant in Madaba since they specialize in mouthwatering Mandi platters and juicy meats with their aromatic rice dishes. Another must be the classic cuisines with Mandi, such as Maghout and Kabsa, which can be meaty or chicken-based, and fresh soups, salads, and juices. Calm and welcoming are the words for the interior of the restaurant, provided with an interesting decor that only adds up to the experience. The helpful staff will always give you suggestions. You would love to take the best rice dishes, plus their desserts which represent Jordanian cuisine, out of the mouth of Madaba. Al-Mandi Kitchen and Restaurant is one of the finest restaurants in Jordan to experience authentic, flavorful dishes.
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
Suggested Read: Food in Jordan: For Your Culinary Adventures In The Kingdom
7. Carob House
The restaurant, Carob House, is a very typical farm-to-table restaurant in the lively, charming town of Madaba. There, guests can enjoy food, culture, and the local produce in this community-driven space. At the restaurant, fresh, healthy meals are offered as it upholds the value of clean, nutritious food. Traditional dishes are therefore prepared at Carob House with care and passion in the form of aromatic soups and salads, mezze platters, and delicious desserts. Apart from that, the restaurant has a special experience of farm tours, cooking workshops, and pop-up dining. These enable visitors to link up with their food and know where their food originates from. Carob House is one of the top restaurants in Madaba, Jordan for those seeking a wholesome, local dining experience.
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
Suggested Read: Hotels in Aqaba Jordan: Handpicked Hotels for a Memorable Stay
8. Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Caffe
Eat your heart out at Jaw Zaman Restaurant & Cafe in Madaba: the history and culture of the city come alive in this top restaurant. This is located in a 20th-century historic house that was once a church, revamped into this snug restaurant. Sipping wine and great food on the outdoor terrace overlooking the charming area landscape gives it a really fantastic ambience. Known for authentic Jordanian menu items, fresh local ingredients, and a wholesome eating experience, one of the highlights of this restaurant is the traditional hand-painted pottery dishes. It is definitely one of the best restaurants in Madaba, Jordan to experience a perfect blend of culture, history, and great food.
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
Suggested Read: Things to Do in Amman to Discover the Vibe Of The Tourists City
9. Mrah Salameh Restaurant
Mrah Salameh Restaurant is situated in a fantastic location, literally under an artistic cave. Ancient carvings and relics cover the walls of the restaurant for a fascinating connection with the rich history and culture in this region. Being "underground" with history and great food on your plate will make dining even more enjoyable. Mrah Salameh comes with a mix of what locals call "Eastern and Western" dishes, so it definitely can cater to both vegetarians and fans of meat. A meal here is especially ideal for a light and serene dinner; after all, it does have dim lighting. The House restaurant Mrah Salameh is said to be the best restaurant Madaba, and it is, above all, world-renowned for its fresh salads that are made with seasonal vegetables and a variety of delicious 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
Suggested Read: Amman Nightlife to Grove to the Sound Of Music All Night Long
10. Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe
Head on to Bawabit Madaba Restaurant & Cafe in Madaba if you have a need to taste authentic Arabic and oriental flavors. Here, you may find vast varieties of dishes such as shawarma, hummus, shish tawook, kebabs, grilled chicken wings, falafel, crispy potatoes, fattoush, fish, and much more. To complete the trip, oriental sweets that can't get you off are set out with a vast collection of cold and hot drinks. The ambiance is cozy. Service is excellent; the choice of dishes is fantastic, and Madaba Gate Restaurant is sure to make your meal time wonderful. Among the best restaurants in Madaba, it is just the right place where you can savor that memorable meal to taste Jordanian flavors. Don't miss this culinary gem!
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
Madaba has long been considered the best of Jordan's secret treasures as it awaits its visitors with an incredible blend of culture and ancient landmarks. And a culinary journey through this beautiful city will only add to the magic of your visit. As for cafes and restaurants, Madaba boasts of them in abundance, as these places have catered to both locals and travelers for years, and it is most famous for its hospitality. In our Jordan tour packages, you can come into the bustling culture of Madaba and explore the rich history by allowing yourself to get into the authentic local food. With so many amazing restaurants in Madaba, let’s not miss this chance to feel the warmth and beauty of Madaba on our next vacation.
Restaurants in Madaba - FAQs
Madaba is known for its high-quality Byzantine mosaics: the most famous example being the Madaba Map, an elaborate mosaic map of the Holy Land in St George's Church. The town is also an important archaeological and cultural site as it houses Mount Nebo among other historical artifacts.
Madaba has an excellent cafe culture that parallels its ancient history and culture. Here are five of the best cafes you must visit in the city. Coffee Shop of St. George's Church, Café Dardash, Haret Jdoudna Café, The Olive Branch Café, and Nabatean Café. Each of these places offers a distinct flavor of local coffee, besides having a warmly intimate ambiance.
The must-haves from Madaba for dessert are kunafa, a Middle Eastern classical dessert: this is the thin pastry sheet soaked in sweet syrup with layers of cheese or cream and topped often with crushed pistachios and served warmly.
Generally speaking, Madaba boasts many historical facts about its past days. Some of the best activities in the city include the following: Visiting St. George's Church to see the famous Madaba Map, Exploring the Archaeological Park with impressive mosaics, Have a visit to Mount Nebo for breathtaking panoramic views, and Explore through local souqs and buy peculiar handicrafts.
Spring (March to May) or fall (September to November) is the ideal visit time. Temperatures are mild and nice for outdoor exploration. Avoid summer time because temperatures reach extreme highs not a good month to do outdoor sightseeing.
A visit to Madaba normally takes 2-3 days because it leaves ample time to visit the key attractions, such as historical sites and landmarks. Depending on your interests and pace, you may stay longer.
The most accessible international airport would be Queen Alia International Airport (AMM) about 30 km south of the city. That is an easy entrance to enter the country through it.
For a traditional breakfast in Madaba, try foul (fava beans) served with olive oil, fresh bread, and local cheeses. Or indulge in shakshuka, a tasty dish of poached eggs cooked in a spicy tomato sauce.
Some of the most prominent bakeries in the city are: Al-Baik Bakery, Anabtawi Sweets Madaba, Planet Donuts, AlJouri Grand Bakeries, and Habiba Sweet. All these bakeries have numerous tasty and fresh baked products that show off the culture of baking that the city flaunts.
All the primary tourist sites around Madaba, such as Mount Nebo and the Dead Sea, can be reached within a 30-45 minute drive. This makes for perfect day trips from the city.
