Top Rooftop Cafes and Restaurants in Amman with a View

Built across seven hills (though it has since expanded to cover many more), Amman offers spectacular panoramic views from its numerous elevated vantage points. The city's unique topography has inspired a thriving rooftop dining scene, where visitors can enjoy everything from traditional Jordanian cuisine to international fare while taking in breathtaking vistas of the sprawling cityscape. This guide highlights the best rooftop venues in Amman, where exceptional food and drink are complemented by unforgettable views.

Luxury Rooftop Dining

Cantaloupe (Jabal Amman)

Perched on the edge of a cliff in Jabal Amman's trendy Rainbow Street area, Cantaloupe offers one of the city's most impressive dining views. From its spacious terrace, diners can gaze across the downtown area to the ancient Citadel illuminated on the opposite hill.

• Cuisine: Contemporary fusion with Mediterranean influences
• Signature dishes: Truffle risotto, beef tenderloin with foie gras, seafood platters
• Atmosphere: Sophisticated and stylish with floor-to-ceiling windows and a sleek outdoor terrace
• Best time to visit: Sunset and evening hours when the city lights begin to twinkle
• Reservation: Highly recommended, especially for terrace seating

Sekrab (Jabal Al-Weibdeh)

Located in the artistic neighborhood of Jabal Al-Weibdeh, Sekrab combines industrial-chic design with panoramic views from its rooftop terrace. The venue is housed in a renovated historic building and offers views across downtown Amman and the Citadel hill.

• Cuisine: Modern Levantine with creative twists on traditional dishes
• Signature dishes: Deconstructed mansaf, zaatar-crusted salmon, innovative mezze platters
• Atmosphere: Artistic and bohemian with vintage furniture and local art
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon through evening
• Reservation: Recommended for dinner, especially on weekends

Amman Rotana Sky Lounge (Abdali)

For the ultimate elevated experience, head to the Sky Lounge at the Amman Rotana Hotel. Located on the 34th floor of the tallest building in the city, this sophisticated venue offers truly spectacular 360-degree views of Amman.

• Cuisine: International fine dining with Asian influences
• Signature dishes: Wagyu beef, fresh sushi and sashimi, creative cocktails
• Atmosphere: Ultra-modern luxury with floor-to-ceiling windows
• Best time to visit: Evening for the city lights panorama
• Reservation: Essential, especially for window tables

Mid-Range Rooftop Venues

Cafe Rumi (Jabal Al-Weibdeh)

This charming cafe in the heart of Jabal Al-Weibdeh offers a more relaxed rooftop experience with lovely views of the neighborhood and downtown Amman. Named after the famous poet, Cafe Rumi attracts a creative crowd of locals and expats.

• Cuisine: Cafe fare with Middle Eastern influences
• Signature items: Arabic breakfast platters, manakish (flatbread with toppings), specialty coffees and teas
• Atmosphere: Laid-back and intellectual with bookshelves and comfortable seating
• Best time to visit: Morning for breakfast with a view or late afternoon
• Reservation: Not typically necessary except on weekend evenings

District (Jabal Amman)

Located near Rainbow Street, District offers a trendy rooftop space with views of downtown Amman. Popular with a younger crowd, this venue transforms from a casual cafe during the day to a livelier spot in the evening.

• Cuisine: International comfort food with Jordanian touches
• Signature items: Gourmet burgers, loaded fries, creative salads, craft cocktails
• Atmosphere: Urban and contemporary with colorful furniture and string lights
• Best time to visit: Late afternoon through evening
• Reservation: Recommended for weekend evenings

Jungle Fever (Abdoun)

This unique rooftop restaurant in upscale Abdoun features lush greenery and tropical decor, creating an urban oasis with city views. The plant-filled setting offers a refreshing contrast to Amman's desert surroundings.

• Cuisine: International fusion with tropical influences
• Signature dishes: Coconut curry shrimp, mango chicken, tropical-inspired cocktails
• Atmosphere: Tropical garden with abundant plants, bamboo elements, and colorful decor
• Best time to visit: Daytime to appreciate the greenery or evening for ambient lighting
• Reservation: Recommended, especially for dinner

Traditional Rooftop Experiences

Sufra (Jabal Amman)

Housed in a beautiful traditional villa on Rainbow Street, Sufra offers authentic Jordanian cuisine on its charming terrace with views of the old city. The restaurant is designed to resemble a traditional Jordanian home, complete with Arabic architectural details.

• Cuisine: Traditional Jordanian and Levantine
• Signature dishes: Mansaf (Jordan's national dish), musakhan (sumac chicken), extensive mezze selection
• Atmosphere: Traditional and elegant with Arabic decor and a garden-like terrace
• Best time to visit: Lunch or early dinner to enjoy the terrace in daylight
• Reservation: Highly recommended, especially for larger groups

Wild Jordan Center (Jabal Amman)

Operated by the Royal Society for the Conservation of Nature, the Wild Jordan Center offers spectacular views of downtown Amman and the Citadel from its eco-friendly terrace. The center promotes sustainable tourism and conservation efforts.

• Cuisine: Healthy, locally-sourced food with Jordanian influences
• Signature items: Organic salads, traditional breakfast platters, fresh juices and herbal teas
• Atmosphere: Serene and eco-conscious with natural materials and plants
• Best time to visit: Morning or afternoon for the best views
• Reservation: Not typically necessary but recommended for large groups

Hashem Al-Balad (Downtown)

This rooftop extension of the famous Hashem Restaurant offers traditional Jordanian street food with panoramic views of the bustling downtown area. Unlike the original street-level location, this rooftop space provides a more comfortable setting to enjoy the legendary food.

• Cuisine: Traditional Jordanian street food
• Signature dishes: Falafel, hummus, ful medames (fava bean stew), fresh bread
• Atmosphere: Casual and authentic with simple decor
• Best time to visit: Breakfast or lunch to experience the downtown energy
• Reservation: Not accepted; first-come, first-served

Rooftop Cafes and Lounges

Books@Cafe (Jabal Amman)

A longtime fixture in Amman's cafe scene, Books@Cafe offers a relaxed rooftop terrace with views of the old city. As the name suggests, the venue combines a bookstore with a cafe, creating a cultural hub popular with locals and visitors alike.

• Offerings: Coffee, tea, fresh juices, light meals, and pastries
• Signature items: Arabic coffee, fresh mint lemonade, breakfast platters
• Atmosphere: Bohemian and intellectual with bookshelves and eclectic furniture
• Best time to visit: Afternoon for reading and relaxing or evening for a livelier atmosphere
• Reservation: Not typically necessary

Aura Lounge (W Amman Hotel)

Located on the 7th floor of the stylish W Amman Hotel, Aura Lounge offers a sophisticated rooftop experience with views of the modern Abdali district. The sleek design and ambient music create a cosmopolitan atmosphere.

• Offerings: Craft cocktails, premium spirits, wine, and gourmet bar snacks
• Signature items: Creative cocktails, tapas-style sharing plates
• Atmosphere: Chic and contemporary with stylish furniture and mood lighting
• Best time to visit: Evening and night for the vibrant atmosphere and city lights
• Reservation: Recommended, especially for weekend evenings

Vinaigrette (Abdoun)

This elegant rooftop cafe in upscale Abdoun offers a serene escape from the city bustle with views of the surrounding hills. The venue is known for its beautiful garden setting and attention to detail.

• Offerings: Specialty coffee, tea, fresh juices, pastries, and light meals
• Signature items: Artisanal coffee preparations, gourmet salads, homemade desserts
• Atmosphere: Refined and peaceful with abundant greenery and comfortable seating
• Best time to visit: Morning or afternoon for a relaxed experience
• Reservation: Not typically necessary but recommended for weekend brunch

Seasonal Considerations

Summer Rooftop Dining (May-September)

Amman's summer evenings are perfect for rooftop dining, with warm temperatures and virtually no chance of rain. However, daytime temperatures can be quite hot:

• Look for venues with shade options or retractable covers
• Evening visits are generally more comfortable than daytime
• Many rooftops offer misting systems during peak summer months
• Reservations become more important as locals and tourists seek outdoor dining

Winter Rooftop Options (November-March)

While Amman's winters are mild compared to many destinations, evenings can be quite cool, and there is occasional rainfall:

• Many rooftop venues install temporary enclosures and heaters during winter
• Some places close their rooftops entirely during the coldest months
• Call ahead to confirm if the rooftop is open during winter, especially if it's raining
• Daytime visits can be pleasant even in winter, especially on sunny days

Tips for the Perfect Rooftop Experience

• Timing is everything: For the most magical experience, time your visit for sunset when the city is bathed in golden light and then transitions to twinkling lights
• Dress appropriately: While Amman is relatively liberal, smart-casual attire is appropriate for most rooftop venues. Some upscale locations may have dress codes
• Make reservations: For the best tables with optimal views, especially at higher-end establishments
• Consider the weather: Bring a light jacket or wrap for evening visits, even in summer, as breezes can be cool at higher elevations
• Bring a camera: The panoramic views of Amman's rolling hills and distinctive white buildings make for stunning photographs

Amman's rooftop dining scene offers something for every taste and budget, from luxurious fine dining to casual cafes and traditional Jordanian experiences. What unites these diverse venues is the spectacular backdrop of the city's unique topography—a sea of white buildings cascading across numerous hills, punctuated by ancient ruins and modern skyscrapers. Whether you're seeking a romantic dinner, a casual coffee with a view, or an authentic taste of Jordanian cuisine, these elevated venues provide unforgettable experiences that combine culinary delights with Amman's breathtaking vistas.