Must-Try Foods In Japanese Garden Diving Site (Aqaba) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Food History of Japanese Garden Diving Site, Aqaba, Jordan

The Japanese Garden in Aqaba is not only a spectacular diving site but also a location where visitors can indulge in traditional and modern Jordanian cuisine after exploring the underwater marvels. While the diving site itself doesn't have a culinary history, Aqaba, the coastal city in which it resides, has a rich cultural tapestry that reflects on its food. Aqaba has been a hub for traders and travelers throughout history, which has led to a blend of different culinary influences in the region including Arabian, Turkish, and Levantine flavors.

Must-Try Top 10 Food Dishes in Aqaba for Tourists

When in Aqaba, after enjoying the beauty of the Japanese Garden diving site, be sure to indulge in the local cuisine. Here are the top 10 must-try dishes:

1. Mansaf (Non-Veg) - A traditional Bedouin dish of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.
2. Mutabbal (Veg) - A delightful smoky eggplant dip blended with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice.
3. Tabbouleh (Veg) - A refreshing parsley salad mixed with tomatoes, mint, onion, bulgur, and seasoned with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt.
4. Falafel (Veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in a pita with salad.
5. Hummus (Veg) - A creamy spread made from mashed chickpeas, tahini, olive oil, lemon juice, and garlic.
6. Grilled Fish (Non-Veg) - Locally caught fish, simply grilled and flavored with spices, embodying the freshness of Aqaba's seaside location.
7. Kebabs (Non-Veg) - Skewers of marinated chicken or other meats, traditionally grilled over an open fire.
8. Fatteh (Veg option available) - A dish consisting of pieces of fresh, toasted, or stale flatbread covered with other ingredients such as chickpeas, garlic yogurt, and toasted nuts.
9. Shawarma (Non-Veg) - Marinated meat, typically chicken, turkey, or lamb, that's been slow-roasted on a spit and served wrapped in a flatbread.
10. Warbat (Veg) - Sweet pastry filled with cheese or nuts and covered in syrup, often eaten as a dessert.

Top Famous Restaurants in Aqaba with Veg and Non-Veg Options

1. Al-Shami Restaurant
   Address: Al-Nahda St, Aqaba, Jordan
   Famous Food: Mansaf (Non-Veg)
2. Papaya Restaurant & Cafe
   Address: Prince Mohammed Street, Aqaba 77110, Jordan
   Famous Food: Grilled Seafood Platter (Non-Veg)
3. Ali Baba Restaurant
   Address: King Hussein Street, Aqaba, Jordan
   Famous Food: Falafel Wrap (Veg)
4. Buffalo Wings & Rings
   Address: Ayla Oasis, Aqaba, Jordan
   Famous Food: Buffalo Wings (Non-Veg), noting that the wings are chicken, ensuring the specificity of no cow non-veg.
5. Syrian Palace Restaurant
   Address: Al-Saada St, Aqaba, Jordan
   Famous Food: Mezze Assortment (Veg and Non-Veg options available)

While Aqaba is famous for its seafood, there are plenty of vegetarian options available. Always check with the restaurant about their vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes, as menus can change and some dishes may be adaptable to dietary preferences.