🌿 Shams El Balad – Amman

Seasonal local kitchen with a modern twist and a lovely view over the city. The menu focuses on fresh ingredients from local farms and reimagined Jordanian / Levantine dishes, making it a good fit for families and anyone who enjoys calm, cosy atmospheres. Its location makes it easy to combine with a walk along Rainbow Street or a visit down to Downtown Amman.

Why choose Shams El Balad?

• Strong focus on local, seasonal ingredients with clean, balanced flavours.
• Jordanian / Levantine dishes with a modern twist and several vegetarian-friendly options.
• A terrace with a pleasant view — ideal for a relaxed daytime meal or a light evening dinner.

What to order (seasonal ideas)

• Seasonal salads with local cheese, za’atar and pomegranate molasses.
• Taboon / flatbread with olive oil and wild thyme from local producers.
• Vegetable-based mains cooked in a homely style but presented in a modern way.
• Light desserts made with local ingredients (usually changing by day or season).

The menu is seasonal and may change frequently — always ask about the “dishes of the day”.

Atmosphere & view

• Simple décor with artisan, local touches and handcrafted details.
• A terrace that works beautifully around sunset and on mild Ammani evenings.
• Friendly service and generally calm vibes — good for family meetups and small gatherings with friends.

Approximate prices

• Category: $$ (mid-range).
• Shared plates and salads: reasonable mid-range pricing, especially for vegetarian options.
• Drinks and desserts: prices vary depending on seasonal ingredients and specials.

Prices are indicative and may change with season, ingredients and promotions.

Reservations & peak times

• Reservations are recommended on weekends and during holidays.
• Peak time is usually between 7–9 pm; arrive earlier if you want a table on the terrace.
• For families with kids, going slightly earlier helps avoid crowds and waiting.

Location & how to get there

• Area: close to the heart of Amman and its main attractions.
• Parking: limited street parking; taxis and ride-hailing apps are usually more convenient.

Nearby places to combine with your visit

• Rainbow Street — cafes, small shops and local vibes.
• Downtown Amman — markets, old cafés and traditional sweets.
• Amman Citadel — panoramic views over the capital.
• Roman Theater — one of the city’s main archaeological sites.
• Other nearby spots from our list: Sufra · Fakhreldin · Levant · Habibah Sweets · Hashem Restaurant.
• Abdali Boulevard — modern boulevard with cafés and shops.

❓ Shams El Balad – FAQ

Are there vegetarian options?
Yes, the restaurant focuses heavily on vegetables and seasonal local produce, so vegetarians are well catered for.

Is a reservation necessary?
It’s recommended on weekends, holidays and if you specifically want a terrace table.

Is it suitable for families with children?
Yes, the atmosphere is generally calm; visiting a bit earlier in the evening helps avoid peak-time crowds.

🔗 Back to “Best restaurants in Amman”

Discover more picks in the Amman restaurant guide, including Fakhreldin, Sufra and Levant.