Arabic phrases for tourists
Essential 25 Arabic Phrases for Tourists in Jordanian Restaurants
Food is one of the best ways to experience Jordanian culture. From delicious falafel and hummus in Amman to fresh fish in Aqaba, every meal can become a cultural memory. To make the experience even smoother, learning a few basic Arabic phrases for restaurants can help you order confidently, ask questions, and connect with locals.
Why Learn Arabic Phrases for Restaurants?
- Better dining experience – Avoid confusion while ordering.
- Respect for culture – Jordanians appreciate when tourists try Arabic.
- Dietary needs – Easily explain if you want vegetarian, halal, or no spice.
- Confidence – You’ll enjoy restaurants, cafés, and street food with less stress.
Useful Arabic Phrases for Food & Restaurants
Here are 25 essential Arabic phrases every tourist should know when eating out in Jordan.
| English Phrase | Pronunciation | Arabic (Meaning) |
|---|---|---|
| Menu please | Al-qaa’ima min fadlak/fadlik | القائمة من فضلك |
| Water please | Ma’ min fadlak | ماء من فضلك |
| I want food | Ureed akel | أريد أكل |
| I am vegetarian | Ana nabati | أنا نباتي |
| No meat please | Bila lahm | بلا لحم |
| No chicken please | Bila dajaj | بلا دجاج |
| No fish please | Bila samak | بلا سمك |
| Is this halal? | Hal hatha halal? | هل هذا حلال؟ |
| Without spice | Bila bahar | بلا بهار |
| A little spicy | Shway har | شوي حار |
| Very spicy | Har ktiir | حار كثير |
| I like it | A’jabni | أعجبني |
| Delicious | Latheeth | لذيذ |
| What do you recommend? | Shou btinsaHni? | شو بتنصحني؟ |
| Bring me the bill please | Al-fatoora min fadlak | الفاتورة من فضلك |
| Can I pay with card? | Mumkin adfa’ bil-bitaqa? | ممكن أدفع بالبطاقة؟ |
| Cash only? | Bas cash? | بس كاش؟ |
| How much is it? | Kam se’r? | كم سعر؟ |
| Tea please | Shay min fadlak | شاي من فضلك |
| Coffee please | Ahwa min fadlak | قهوة من فضلك |
| Bread please | Khubz min fadlak | خبز من فضلك |
| More water please | Ma’ kaman min fadlak | ماء كمان من فضلك |
| Table for two | Tawila li ithnayn | طاولة لاثنين |
| Table for four | Tawila li arba’a | طاولة لأربعة |
| Thank you, the food was great | Shukran, al-akel kan latheeth | شكرا، الأكل كان لذيذ |
Dining Tips in Jordan
- Tipping: It’s common to leave around 10% in restaurants if service isn’t included.
- Halal food: Most food in Jordan is halal, but asking politely is always good.
- Sharing: Jordanians love sharing plates—don’t be surprised if meals are served family-style.
- Street food: Try falafel, shawarma, and knafeh—some of Jordan’s best flavors are on the streets.
Final Thoughts
Eating out in Jordan is more than food—it’s a cultural experience. By using a few basic Arabic restaurant phrases, you’ll not only enjoy smoother service but also connect with locals in a meaningful way. Whether you’re ordering mansaf in Amman, fresh seafood in Aqaba, or tea in Petra, these words will make every meal easier and more enjoyable.
