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Fakhreldin

Amman

Superlative service and Levantine fare delivered in a historic villa

On the Pass

Rafic Nakhle

What makes it special? Come for the food, stay for Fakhreldin’s infallible hospitality and personalised service. Diners are treated like family: the service style is heavily based on the spirit of Jordanian generosity and is tailored to each individual customer. Regulars don’t even need to order as the waitstaff remember each diner’s preferences, from their mezze order and choice of bread to how they take their coffee at the end of the meal.

What’s the story? Established in 1997, Fakhreldin is housed in the former family home of Prime Minister Fawzi Al Mulki. The villa was restored by renowned Jordanian architect Ammar Khammash, known for his preservationist approach: each room reflects the original spirit of the home and a lot of the original fixtures remain untouched.

What’s the vibe? Traditional and elegant, this bustling restaurant is a favourite for family celebrations, business dinners and is a mandatory stop for any guests from out of town. Enjoy your meal in one of the light-filled rooms in the winter, but make sure to book your table in the lush Levantine garden in the summer to enjoy your meal under the stars.

Must orders: As well as fresh mezzes and grilled meats, mains pull from the Levant’s greatest hits, with its signature kebab of charcoal-grilled minced meat, pine nuts, onions, tomatoes and green peppers, served with chilli paste, proving an evergreen highlight. End your meal with standout desserts are the osmaliyeh (thin strands of filo dough saturated with cream) and mohalabiyah (cooked condensed milk, rose water and honey topped with pistachio).

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