Discover Rainbow Street: Amman's Premier Pedestrian Paradise for Dining, Shopping, and Views
Rainbow Street beckons visitors and locals alike to Amman's rare pedestrian-friendly haven. In a hilly capital notorious for traffic congestion and inconsistent sidewalks—often blocked by trees or parked cars—this nearly flat stretch from First Circle stands out. Lined with diverse dining spots, bars, shops, and prime people-watching opportunities, it's an ideal spot for leisurely exploration.
Situated atop Jebel Amman facing Lweibdeh, Rainbow Street offers easy access to iconic sites like the ancient Citadel ruins on Al Qala'a, the Roman Theatre, Lweibdeh's art galleries, and vibrant Al Balad. Spend an afternoon or evening weaving through cafes, souvenir shops, restaurants, and rooftop bars. Thursdays kick off Jordan's weekend, bringing lively crowds, cruising cars, and promenading pedestrians. Whether seeking nightlife or daytime vibes, here's your expert guide to the best eats, drinks, sights, and experiences on Amman's legendary Rainbow Street.
Relax in Authentic Cafes
Jordanian hospitality shines through offers of tea or coffee from hosts and shopkeepers, rooted in Bedouin traditions beyond mere caffeine. Rainbow Street brims with cafes serving local and global brews.
Turtle Green's two-level haven specializes in premium loose-leaf teas and local herbs, fostering a welcoming vibe for all—including smokers. Opt for takeaway if you prefer smoke-free air. For a smoke-free European flair, Caffe Strada's sunlit indoor space or courtyard offers Italian coffees, 30 tea varieties, and paninis—just steps from Rainbow Theatre, opposite the street.
Grab Affordable Street Eats
Despite Amman's high costs, budget-friendly gems abound on Rainbow Street. At Al Quds (midway down, opposite Abdul Aziz Jawish St.), savor fresh falafel sandwiches with pickles and tomatoes for under JD2 (~US$2.80). This no-frills spot, open since 1966, boasts a royal pedigree—King Abdullah and the late King Hussein dined here.
Indulge in Traditional Jordanian Fare
Family and food define Jordanian culture, embodied in Rainbow Street's homey eateries. Nabateh o Fatteh offers rustic charm and Old City views, serving national dish mansaf (lamb, rice, yogurt sauce), fatteh (toasted flatbread with hummus, chicken, meat, or makdous-stuffed eggplant), plus burgers and pizza at value prices.
For an elevated experience, book at Sufra ('dining table' in Arabic) in a refined stone villa. Dine on the terrace amid Old City vistas, watching fresh bread bake in a clay oven. Signature dishes include Jerashi labneh (yogurt balls in olive oil with chilis) and galayeh (lamb, tomato, onion stew).
Satisfy Your Sweet Cravings
Dessert fans rejoice: Rainbow Street delivers. At Sufra, try kunafeh—Palestinian pastry with cheese, syrup, and pistachios—paired with Turkish coffee or shai bil na'na' (mint tea). For frozen delights, Mr Lollies opposite Turtle Green offers customizable sorbets, gelatos, or fruit yogurt pops with dips, sprinkles, nuts, or cereal.
Shop and Stroll the Markets
Visit Fridays (June-September) when Fawzi Al Maalouf St becomes Souk Jara (10am-10pm), a vibrant pop-up of handicrafts, antiques, and art. Descend the stairs to Othman Ben Affan St for Wild Jordan Center's Nature Shop, featuring Dana teas, Bedouin-crafted jewelry, and candles.
Capture Stunning Views
Cap your day on a rooftop: Cantaloupe's two-tier terrace overlooks the Old City and Citadel with sunset happy hours. Enjoy grilled halloumi with pomegranate molasses and St George organic wine. Families prefer Wild Jordan Center's healthful menu, kids' corner, and Hercules Temple views through vast windows.
Venture to Nearby Gems
Rainbow Street launches further adventures: trek downtown for Old City eats and shops, or try Ayman Coffee near Second Circle for herbal drinks or sand-brewed Turkish coffee. Shisha at alcohol-free Dust Roof or Talet Al Jabal; cocktails at Latin-inspired Copas bar.
