What to Eat in Petra: A Local Food Guide

Food is one of the most powerful ways to understand a place, and Petra does not disappoint. The culinary scene here reflects centuries of tradition, local ingredients, and cultural influences that make every meal an adventure.

Whether you are a devoted foodie or simply want to know what to order, this guide covers the essential dishes, the best places to find them, and the dining etiquette that will earn you nods of approval from locals.

The Food Culture of Petra

Eating in Petra, Jordan is about more than sustenance — it is a social ritual. Meals tend to be communal, portions are generous, and the line between street food and fine dining is delightfully blurred. The local currency is Jordanian Dinar (JOD), and you can eat extremely well for $9–$24 per day on food alone.

Must-Try Dishes

Mansaf — Jordanian national dish of lamb in fermented yogurt sauce over rice

The undisputed star of Petra's food scene. You will find this everywhere from humble street carts to upscale restaurants, and every local has a strong opinion about who makes it best. Do not leave without trying it at least twice — once from a street vendor and once at a sit-down restaurant to compare.

Zarb — Bedouin underground barbecue cooked in sand pits

A close second in the local food hierarchy. This dish showcases the region's signature flavors and is often prepared differently from neighborhood to neighborhood. Ask your server for the "traditional" version if you want the authentic experience.

Knafeh — sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup, a Middle Eastern dessert

Often overlooked by visitors who stick to the greatest hits, Knafeh — sweet cheese pastry soaked in syrup, a Middle Eastern dessert is what locals actually eat on a regular basis. It is comfort food at its finest — simple, satisfying, and surprisingly affordable.

Falafel — crispy fried chickpea balls in pita with pickles and tahini

Perfect for a mid-afternoon pick-me-up. Falafel — crispy fried chickpea balls in pita with pickles and tahini is sold from small stalls and carts throughout the city. Follow your nose — the best ones are found in the Main Trail — Treasury to the Monastery via colonnaded streets and tombs area.

Maqluba — upside-down rice, meat, and vegetable casserole

A dish that tells a story about Petra's cultural heritage. Worth seeking out at a traditional restaurant in the Wadi Musa — gateway town with hotels, restaurants, and the Petra entrance neighborhood.

Bedouin tea — sweet black tea with sage served in the desert

The perfect way to end a meal in Petra. Sweet, satisfying, and uniquely local — you will not find anything quite like it anywhere else.

Where to Eat

For Authentic Local Food

Head to Main Trail — Treasury to the Monastery via colonnaded streets and tombs. This is where locals eat, so prices are honest and the food is genuine. Busy stalls with long lines are always a good sign.

For a Special Occasion

The Little Petra (Siq al-Barid) — miniature Nabataean site 15 minutes north area has restaurants that elevate traditional cuisine with modern presentation. Expect to spend around $60 per person for a memorable meal.

For Street Food

Wander the streets around Wadi Musa — gateway town with hotels, restaurants, and the Petra entrance in the early evening. The street food scene comes alive after sunset with vendors selling everything from grilled meats to fresh pastries.

Dining Etiquette and Tips

Understanding local customs will enhance your dining experience:

• Respect Bedouin culture and hospitality — accept tea when offered
• Ask before photographing Bedouin people or their camels
• Do not climb on or touch carved tomb facades

Pro Tips

1. Eat where locals eat. If a restaurant menu is only in Arabic, that is usually a good sign.
2. Lunch is your power meal. Many restaurants offer set-lunch menus at significant discounts.
3. Food tours are worth it. A guided food tour on your first day will orient your palate and give you recommendations for the rest of your trip.
4. Dietary restrictions? Learn how to say your requirements in Arabic — a printed card helps at smaller establishments.
5. Buy a 2-day Petra pass to explore thoroughly — one day is not enough

Drinks to Try

Do not limit yourself to food — Petra has a drink culture worth exploring too. Ask for the local specialty at any bar or cafe and let the bartender surprise you. Coffee culture is particularly strong here, and an afternoon coffee break is a wonderful way to soak in the local pace of life.

The Bottom Line

Food in Petra is an experience, not just a meal. Budget at least $24 per day for food if you want a mix of street eats and sit-down restaurants. Your taste buds will thank you.

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