Rainbow Street

User Review:

• Not far from Amman's downtown centre, in the historic district of Jabal Amman is Rainbow Street, named after Rainbow Cinema near it's intersection with the 1st Circle. Sadly, the cinema is no longer open. Beginning in 2006 Greater Amman Municipality spent an estimated 2 to 5 million dinars (depending who you ask) to improve the district by increasing sidewalk space, erecting street signs and attracting movie theatres. In order to slow the pace of traffic the street was resurfaced with cobblestones. The primary goal of the Rainbow Street renovation was to create a "heritage attraction point" in Amman. Interesting cafés and restaurants, antique shops, and galleries are to be found the length and breadth of the street. Falafel al-Quds, considered by many to be the best falafel shop in the Middle East is located on Rainbow Street. Falafel al-Quds has been in Rainbow Street for more than 40 years. Abu Adeeb created the secret mouth-watering recipe. Ask anyone in the street who has the best falafel in all of Amman and almost to a man, they will tell you to go to al-Quds! On Fridays (10 am – 9 pm) Jabel Amman Resident's Association organizes Souq Jara. In this open air "flea market" one can find oriental antiques, pottery and handicrafts. The market can be found at the street next to the Jordan River Foundation showroom near 1st Circle. One of the more famous spots in Rainbow Street is Books@Cafe. It's a diverse, eclectic business located in an old villa. According to the owners the idea for the shop was born during the early 90's when cafés allowed access to "couples only". They wanted a place that was comfortable and unrestricted where one might drop in for a coffee (with refills!), good food and music. With reasonably priced books and internet access, both of which were hard to find in those days the shop became a refuge for students, musicians, artists, writers and, of course, lovers of good coffee. After more than ten years in business, Books@Cafe has grown to five main rooms, two beautiful courtyards, an alternative book shop and free WiFi. Thousands of loyal customers attest to the great atmosphere and impeccable service. When moving round in Rainbow Street, a stop in Books@Cafe is an absolute must!
• The description was provided by Ol' Big Jim