Food History of Aqaba Archaeological Museum, Aqaba, Jordan
The Aqaba Archaeological Museum itself is not specifically renowned for food; however, it beautifully represents the history and culture of Aqaba, which has a rich tradition of cuisine influenced by various civilizations that have passed through the region. The museum is located in the house of Sharif Hussein Bin Ali, an important historical figure, and it showcases artifacts that trace back the city's past, including the Islamic era. Aqaba's food history is deeply intertwined with its position as a trade hub, with culinary influences from the Levant, Egypt, and the Arabian Peninsula blending to create unique local dishes.
Must Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Aqaba
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Mansaf (Non-Veg): Jordan's national dish made with lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.
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Maqluba (Non-Veg): A traditional dish that includes rice, vegetables, and usually chicken, cooked and flipped over to serve.
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Falafel (Veg): Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, typically served in a pita.
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Tabouleh (Veg): A fresh salad made from bulgur wheat, finely chopped parsley, tomato, mint, and seasoned with lemon juice and olive oil.
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Hummos (Veg): A creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, garlic, lemon juice, and olive oil.
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Baba Ghanoush (Veg): A smoky grilled eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
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Fatteh (Non-Veg): A layered dish of crispy bread, rice, chickpeas, and usually chicken or lamb, topped with a tangy yogurt sauce.
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Grilled Fish (Non-Veg): Freshly caught fish from the Red Sea, commonly seasoned and grilled to perfection.
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Mutabbal (Veg): Different from Baba Ghanoush, this dish is made with eggplant, tahini, garlic, and yogurt, usually a bit more creamy.
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Warbat bil Qishta (Veg): A sweet pastry filled with cream and often drizzled with sugar syrup, perfect for dessert lovers.
Top Famous Restaurants in Aqaba
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Ali Baba Restaurant
Address: Raghadan Street, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: Grilled meats and seafood (Non-Veg)
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Al-Shami
Address: Al-Nahda Street, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: Syrian and Lebanese dishes, including Hummos and Baba Ghanoush (Veg)
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Papaya Restaurant & Café
Address: Corniche Street, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: A variety of international dishes with vegetarian options (Veg/Non-Veg)
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Al-Mohandes Restaurant
Address: King Hussein Street, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: Jordanian cuisine, like Maqluba and Mansaf (Non-Veg)
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Buffalo Wings & Rings
Address: Ayla Oasis, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: American-style chicken dishes (Non-Veg)
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Red Sea Grill
Address: King Hussein Street, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: Seafood platters (Non-Veg)
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Syrian Palace Restaurant
Address: Al-Saada Street, Aqaya, Jordan
Famous for: Traditional Syrian dishes, including vegetarian options (Veg/Non-Veg)
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Formosa Chinese Restaurant
Address: Princess Haya Circle, Aqaba, Jordan
Famous for: Authentic Chinese cuisine with seafood specials (Non-Veg)
Please note that in Aqaba, Jordan, as a primarily Muslim country, the majority of the meat served will be halal, and there may be fewer options for dishes made with pork or alcohol-based ingredients. Always inquire at restaurants about their vegetarian options, as some dishes may be adapted upon request.