Just a short drive from the entrance to Petra, tucked along Tourism Street in Wadi Musa, sits Falafel Time Restaurant—a place that turns a simple family meal into a memorable cultural experience. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, generous portions, and fresh, authentic Jordanian flavours, it has become a favourite stop for travellers unwinding after a long day exploring the ancient city.
A Family Table After Petra
After hours of climbing steps, chasing viewpoints, and trying to keep the kids motivated through the vast wonders of Petra, the promise of food becomes more than just a necessity—it’s the highlight of the evening. Walking into Falafel Time feels like stepping into a warm embrace. The staff greet families with genuine smiles, and there’s an immediate sense that children are not just accommodated—they’re welcome.
The relaxed, cosy setting works perfectly for families. Parents can finally sit back, while kids remain entertained by the lively energy of the place: sizzling grills, colourful plates, and the constant rhythm of fresh dishes being prepared.
First Taste of Camel Meat
For many families, travel is about trying something new—and at Falafel Time, that often means one thing: camel meat. It’s not something you casually encounter back home, so ordering it becomes a small adventure in itself.
When the camel kebab arrives, curiosity fills the table. The kids hesitate at first, but one bite changes everything. The flavour is rich, slightly gamey, yet surprisingly tender. It becomes a shared moment—half culinary discovery, half family dare—followed by laughter and the proud declaration: “We tried camel!”
It’s exactly the kind of experience that turns a meal into a story you’ll tell long after the trip.
Mansaf: A Taste of Jordanian Tradition
No visit to Jordan feels complete without trying mansaf, and Falafel Time delivers it in a way that feels both authentic and approachable for families.
Served generously, the dish arrives layered with fragrant rice, tender lamb, and the distinctive tang of jameed sauce. For parents, it’s a cultural highlight; for kids, it’s a new flavour adventure—sometimes approached cautiously, sometimes devoured enthusiastically.
Sharing mansaf around the table becomes more than eating; it’s participating in a tradition that has defined Jordanian hospitality for generations.
The Magic of Bread-Making
One of the most captivating moments—especially for children—is watching bread being made the traditional way. Somewhere between the kitchen and the dining area, dough is stretched, slapped, and baked into warm, pillowy rounds.
The process is simple yet mesmerising. Kids gather to watch as the bread puffs up over the heat, transforming in seconds. When it arrives at the table, still warm, it’s impossible to resist tearing off a piece.
This connection between preparation and plate is rare in modern dining—and it’s exactly what makes the experience feel authentic and memorable. Reviews often highlight the freshness of the bread and ingredients as a key part of the restaurant’s appeal.
A Place Where Families Feel at Home
What sets Falafel Time Restaurant apart isn’t just the food—it’s the feeling. The attentive, friendly service and welcoming environment make it ideal for families, whether you’re travelling with toddlers or teenagers.
There’s no rush. You can linger over mint tea while the kids recount their favourite Petra moments, from camels at the Treasury to climbing endless steps. The restaurant becomes a place to pause, reflect, and reconnect after a day of exploration.
More Than Just a Meal
Dining at Falafel Time isn’t just about satisfying hunger—it’s about experiencing Jordan through food, culture, and shared family moments. From tasting camel meat for the first time to breaking warm bread together and discovering the flavours of mansaf, every detail adds to the journey.
And long after leaving Petra, it’s often these simple, human moments—around a table, with curious kids and new tastes—that remain the most vivid memories of all.
