Must-Try Foods In Shrine Of The Martyrs (Madaba) For Tourists 2026 - 2027

Shrine of the Martyrs, Madaba, Jordan - Food History

The Shrine of the Martyrs in Madaba, Jordan, is a historically and spiritually significant site where Christian martyrs were believed to have been killed during the Roman times. Surrounding this area, Madabi cuisine, much like other parts of Jordan, is deeply rooted in the country's rich cultural tapestry, influenced by Bedouin traditions and the Levantine cuisine. The importance of communal eating, fresh ingredients, and the generous use of herbs and spices characterize food traditions here. Due to its location, the food in Madaba has been influenced by several civilizations over the centuries, including the Greeks, Romans, Ottomans, and Arabs, which is reflected in the local dishes that blend a variety of flavors and techniques.

Top 10 Must-Try Food Dishes

Mansaf (non-veg) - Jordan's national dish made of lamb cooked in a sauce of fermented dried yogurt and served with rice or bulgur.

Falafel (veg) - Deep-fried balls made from ground chickpeas or fava beans, often served in pita bread with salad and tahini sauce.

Muttabal (veg) - A smoky eggplant dip mixed with tahini, garlic, and lemon juice, commonly paired with flatbread.

Tabbouleh (veg) - A fresh herb salad with parsley, mint, bulgur, tomato, lemon juice, and olive oil.

Hummus (veg) - A creamy spread made from cooked, mashed chickpeas blended with tahini, lemon juice, and garlic.

Maqluba (non-veg) - A traditional dish of rice, vegetables, and meat such as chicken, inverted when served, hence the name 'upside-down'.

Shawarma (non-veg) - Thinly sliced meat, typically chicken, turkey, or lamb, roasted on a slowly-turning vertical spit and served in bread with toppings.

Warbat bil Qishta (veg) - A sweet pastry filled with cream or cheese and typically soaked in sugar syrup.

Stuffed grape leaves (Dolma) (veg/non-veg) - Grape leaves stuffed with a tantalizing mix of rice, meat, and spices, cooked in olive oil and lemon juice.

Knafeh (veg) - A traditional Middle Eastern dessert made with thin noodle-like pastry or semolina dough, soaked in sweet syrup and typically layered with cheese.

Top Famous Restaurants in Madaba near Shrine of the Martyrs

Haret Jdoudna
Address: Adel Al Qasem St, Madaba, Jordan
Famous for: Mansaf (non-veg), and an array of traditional Jordanian dishes.

Ayola Coffee Shop and Restaurant
Address: King Talal St, Madaba, Jordan
Famous for: Maqluba (non-veg), Jordanian coffee, and local snacks.

Moab Land Hotel Restaurant
Address: Aysha Um al Mumeneen St, Madaba, Jordan
Famous for: Traditional Jordanian buffet with options like Falafel (veg) and muttabal (veg), and local dishes.

Bawabit Madaba Restaurant and Cafe
Address: Madaba, Jordan
Famous for: Local cuisine with a variety of dishes including vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

Queen Ayola Restaurant
Address: Tourism St, Madaba, Jordan
Famous for: Tabbouleh (veg) and a mix of Western and traditional Jordanian meals.

These restaurants offer a great opportunity to delve into the rich gastronomy of Madaba and enjoy traditional Jordanian hospitality. Remember to check with each establishment for their updated addresses, opening hours, and menu options before planning your visit.