London is one of the most exciting food capitals in the world. You will find this country a true paradise if you are a halal food lover. This country is enriched with rich cultural diversity and a thriving culinary scene. London offers a wide range of halal restaurants, from casual street food spots to upscale dining experiences. Whether you are craving Indian curries, juicy burgers, Turkish grills, or authentic Japanese ramen, this city has something special to offer.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the best halal food in London and why London is good for halal. We’ll also explore the best halal food restaurants in London. So let’s get started!
Best Halal Food in London
1. Gourmet Halal Burgers
Nowadays, you can see that London has a halal burger revolution. You can find gourmet halal burgers packed with premium ingredients, bold sauces, and creative toppings.
2. Peri-Peri Chicken
Peri-peri chicken has become a firm favorite across London. It is marinated in spicy, tangy sauce and flame-grilled to perfection. You can’t mention peri-peri without thinking of Nando’s, which has halal chicken at many London locations.
3. Indian & Pakistani Curries
London’s South Asian food scene is legendary and a paradise for those who eat halal food. Indian and Pakistani curries are so rich, so comforting, and so varied, endlessly varied. There are options for meat lovers and vegetarians alike.
4. Turkish & Middle Eastern grills
A Middle Eastern grill feast is a wonderful thing, and London is home to some of the greatest Turkish and Lebanese spots outside the region. You may discover smokey lamb shish, chicken kebabs, adana kofte, and juicy shawarma. These dishes are frequently paired with pillowy bread, fluffy rice, and fresh salads.
5. Japanese Halal Delights
Halal Japanese food? Yes, you read that right! London has a lot of halal-certified Japanese restaurants, from sushi to ramen. A highlight is Negi & Nori, the source for pretty katsu curries, ramen bowls, and fresh sushi rolls, whose halal ingredients are beyond reproach.
For halal diners, that’s a rare gem. It’s proof that you can have the delicate, umami-rich flavors of Japanese dining without having to take any shortcuts.
6. Lebanese & Arab Comfort Food
If you’re looking for hearty, fulfilling halal meals, Lebanese and Arab cuisine is the way to go. Of course, there is chicken shawarma, lamb mansaf, kofta, and crispy falafel to not miss.
7. Halal Desserts & Sweet Treats
No meal is complete without something sweet! London’s halal dessert scene is thriving with all things cake, pudding, and artisanal gelato. For something cold and sweet, stop by Snowflake Gelato for halal-friendly gelato in tasty flavors. Many of the dessert cafés are also halal certified, so you won’t have to worry about your sugar fix.
8. Cool Malaysian And Southeast Asian Cuisine
For bold, fragrant flavors, consider London’s Malaysian and Southeast Asian halal spots. Restaurants like Normah’s and Rasa Sayang offer rich beef rendang, nasi lemak, char kway teow, and laksa. They’re fragrant, spicy, and full of personality. You probably won’t find them on a standard-issue halal guide.
Best Halal Food Restaurants in London
London is a gastronomic melting pot, with a diverse range of dining options, including some of the top halal food restaurants in central London. Any foodie who likes Turkish delicacies, contemporary British cuisine, or traditional Middle Eastern flavors should check out these halal food places in London.
1. Negi & Nori
If you think halal dining in London is limited to burgers and grills, think again! Negi & Nori has redefined the halal dining experience by offering authentic Japanese cuisine made with halal ingredients. Located in the heart of London, Negi & Nori is beloved for its crispy chicken katsu curry, flavorful ramen, beautifully prepared sushi rolls, and inventive mocktails.
The restaurant is chic yet welcoming, making it perfect for both casual dinners and special occasions. Their ramen, with deeply savory broth and tender noodles, is another crowd favorite. What’s more, Negi & Nori takes pride in sourcing high-quality halal meats, ensuring you enjoy an authentic Japanese meal without compromise.
2. The Great Chase
The Great Chase offers a sophisticated menu that satisfies the senses while fusing halal dining with British charm. Renowned for its inventive cuisine, this eatery sources the best ingredients to create dishes like slow-cooked lamb, confit duck, and a delectable selection of vegetarian options.
The setting is elegant but friendly, making it ideal for large events as well as informal gatherings. Every meal is not only excellent but also made responsibly because of their commitment to moral and halal principles. The Great Chase is a must-see if you’re looking for a genuinely distinctive halal eating experience in London.
3. Hiba Street Food
The vibrant spirit of Middle Eastern street markets is brought to London by Hiba Street Food. This restaurant, which specializes in shawarma, falafels, and other street food staples, is well-known for its quick and tasty dishes. It’s a great place for a quick and filling dinner because of the bright and dynamic ambiance, which enhances the entire dining experience. Every meal is prepared using fresh, halal ingredients and is bursting with genuine flavors.
4. Abu Maher Restaurant
In the center of London, the hidden treasure Abu Maher Restaurant serves real Yemeni food. Mandi, haneeth, and delectably flavored rice are among the traditional dishes that this family-run restaurant is famous for. It’s a comfortable spot to eat with loved ones because of its warm and inviting atmosphere. Using recipes handed down through the years, each meal is lovingly and carefully made.
5. Fora Restaurant
With a menu that combines traditional Turkish food with contemporary elements, Fora Restaurant provides a classy dining experience. Known for its sophisticated design and excellent service, this restaurant offers a range of delicacies, including creamy hummus and succulent lamb shish. It is perfect for important occasions as well as informal eating because of its elegant and roomy atmosphere.
6. Taste of Lahore
Taste of Lahore introduces London to the rich and colorful flavors of Pakistani food. This eatery is well-known for its filling fare, including karahi, biryani, and tender kebabs. It’s a terrific venue for celebrations and family meals because of its vibrant and active ambiance, which enhances the overall dining experience.
To ensure an authentic taste, each meal is made using traditional recipes and fresh, halal ingredients. For those who are yearning for Pakistani cuisine, Taste of Lahore is a must-visit because of its hearty portions and robust tastes.
7. Normah’s
Delicious Malaysian food is served at the welcoming and quaint Normah’s restaurant. Flavorful foods, including laksa, beef rendang, and nasi lemak are the restaurant’s specialty. It’s the ideal place for a leisurely supper because of its cozy and personal atmosphere. Every meal is meticulously made with premium halal ingredients and traditional traditions.
8. Shahs Halal Food Soho
For those looking for tasty, quick, and reasonably priced halal food, Shahs Halal Food Soho is a well-liked destination. This busy restaurant is well-known for its succulent burgers, delicious wraps, and savory kebabs. It’s a terrific place for a late-night meal or a fast lunch because of its lively and informal atmosphere.
9. Cyprus Mangal
Cyprus Mangal provides a fantastic Mediterranean and Cypriot culinary experience. This eatery is well-known for its succulent kebabs, fresh seafood, and filling mezes. Every meal is expertly prepared to highlight the region’s vivid and rich flavors. It’s the perfect spot for a laid-back supper with family or friends because of its welcoming and informal atmosphere.
Customers return for more because of their grilled halloumi and lamb chops, which are especially well-liked. Cyprus Mangal stands apart in London’s halal dining scene thanks to its dedication to quality and genuine flavors.
10. Babel Grill House Lebanese Halal Restaurant
The exquisite flavors of Lebanon are brought to London by Babel Grill House. This welcoming eatery is well known for its genuine Lebanese fare, which includes delectable lamb kebabs, fragrant rice, and freshly prepared hummus. It’s a great spot for private dinners and family get-togethers because of its cozy and welcoming ambience.
Final Words
In conclusion, discovering London’s bustling culinary scene while sticking to halal dietary restrictions is not only possible but also extremely enjoyable. From Michelin-starred fine dining places to quiet local cafes, the city has a wide range of halal options to suit any taste or occasion.
Whether savoring the delicate flavors of modern European cuisine atop iconic skyscrapers or indulging in the heady spices of Japanese delicacies in charming bistros, halal food fans can go on a culinary adventure unlike any other.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is halal food common in London?
Yes, halal food is very common in London. The city has a wide range of halal restaurants, from casual street food to fine dining, covering cuisines like Middle Eastern, Indian, Pakistani, Turkish, Japanese, and more. Many mainstream restaurants also offer halal options.
What are the rules for halal food in the UK?
In the UK, the rules for halal food follow Islamic dietary guidelines. Here’s a simple summary:
Meat must be slaughtered according to Islamic law (zabiha), with a prayer recited during the process.
No pork or pork products are allowed.
No alcohol or ingredients containing alcohol can be used in cooking or food preparation.
All ingredients, additives, and processing methods must be halal compliant.
Is all chicken halal in the UK?
No, not all chicken in the UK is halal. For chicken to be halal, it must be slaughtered according to Islamic law (zabiha), with a prayer said at the time of slaughter. Many supermarkets, restaurants, and takeaways in the UK offer both halal and non-halal chicken. So it’s important to check labels and packaging or ask the restaurant to confirm if the chicken is halal certified.
