Shawarma is a must have when in any Arab country. It’s fast food, it’s delicious and it’s generally cheap. There’s nothing to not love unless you’re vegetarian and then even if you are there is a vegetarian “alternative” in a falafel sandwich. So, when we were in Jordan, it was a given that we were going to visit a shawarma joint. Shawarma Reem is known as being the best shawarma spot in Amman, so definitely check that out if you’ve got time. Unfortunately, we didn’t get the time to do so, but not to worry we did manage to try a shawarma spot (twice)!
Shawarma
Shawarma is like the Arab alternative to a doner kebab, Philly cheesesteak, gyro or chicken sandwich. It is that iconic. Often it is overlooked, but at the same time it is seen as such a staple of many cultures. Staple in terms of cheap affordable and quick street food. This is that. It may look a lot like doner or gyro, but it is distinctively different. It is the Middle East version and it usually comes in a thinner wrap and it’s smothered with sauce usually chilli and garlic. The garlic sauce (known as thoum in Arabic) is an absolute game changer.
Why does it taste better in Arab countries?
Is it just me or does shawarma hit different in Arab countries? I mean don’t get me wrong, I’ve had it in Manchester and I know it is loved by the people of the city (even though I wasn’t a fan of the most famous shawarma spot in Manchester), I’ve had it in multiple spots in London including legends Cafe Helen, Tara in Queensway, Abu Afif and Ranoush by Maroush. And I did like them, but you’ll see that it’s always hit and miss. Sometimes it’s amazing, sometimes it’s okay, sometimes it’s inconsistent. However, whenever I have had it in an Arab country (Saudi Arabia, UAE, Qatar, Jordan) it has always always banged. It never fails. I have heard the reason for this is the quality of the meat is better in these countries and so the shawarma as a result is good. The meat is lean, flavourful and no off-putting meaty taste.
Where to try in Amman Jordan
Shawarma Reem is the iconic hole in the wall shawarma spot that you have to visit if you want to try one of the best shawarmas in the city (according to locals). All the taxi drivers directed us to this spot and our prior research also confirmed this. They have over 7 thousand Google reviews and they’ve been around since 1975! So, you know it’s going to be good. Unfortunately, this was a family trip meaning we were doing more activities and less “food tours” and we just weren’t in the area to sample it. Hopefully next time!
Google Maps for Shawarma Reem: click here
Even though, we didn’t have time to visit Shawarma Reem, but did try out a spot right near our hotel: Shawarma Roperto. We got the Arabic shawarma platter, which comes with the shawarma, pickles, garlic sauce and a drink (we got the very interesting looking Ayran in a can). When you order Arabic shawarma from a menu, for anyone unaware, should know that they’re getting a grilled wrap that is nicely cut into one or two bite size pieces. Very good for sharing. The food was enough for 3 people (depending on how hungry you are)! All for just £6. This is an absolute steal considering a small shawarma wrap in comparison in London is about £7!
If you’re traveling to Jordan, especially for the first time, you’ll need a tour guide and transportation. It will make your life easier and the holiday that much more enjoyable. Visiting places like Petra, Wadi Rum and the Dead Sea in a country where English is not spoken much can be challenging. Get in touch to get more details on who we used and would recommend.
Getting there
Google Maps link
