I don’t know about you, but whenever I visit a new city, I’m always on the hunt for halal restaurants. New York City is different, though. It has so many options, and you literally get confused about which one to choose. Whether you’re a local, or a tourist, NYC’s halal spots bring an exciting mix of flavors to the table. From Middle Eastern food carts to upscale restaurants serving halal-friendly American classics. There’s truly something for everyone. Let me share some of the best halal restaurants in New York City from my list.
What Makes Halal Dining Special in NYC?
Halal food New York City has become a key part of the city’s culinary diversity. The demand for halal options isn’t just from the growing Muslim community but also from people all over. They are always interested in new flavors and ethical food options. What might surprise you is that halal restaurants now go far beyond just kebabs and shawarma. You’ll find dishes from the Middle East, South Asia, North Africa, and even the American South. So, whether you’re looking for spicy biryani or classic barbeque, NYC’s halal spots won’t disappoint you.
What Does It Mean for a Restaurant to Be Halal?
Let’s understand what is halal first. “Halal” in Arabic means “permissible” or “lawful.” It actually refers to food prepared according to Islamic dietary laws. For meat to be halal, the animal must be slaughtered humanely and without suffering. Halal certification also ensures that dishes are free of alcohol and pork (which is prohibited in Islam). In New York City, many halal restaurants display their certification proudly. That’s why diners know they’re getting food that’s authentic and respectful of these practices.
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Best Halal Restaurants in New York City
The Halal Guys – NYC’s Iconic Street Food
The Halal Guys are the most famous street food you could ever have. They started with a single food cart on 53rd and 6th in Midtown Manhattan. After that they have grown into a household name in the United States. They are very popular for their flavorful gyro sandwiches and chicken over rice, they’ve become famous for their secret white sauce that perfectly balances the bold flavors of their dishes. Honestly, I’m a big fan of their white sauce.
Today, they have locations all over the US, but the original cart is still worth a visit for a true New York halal experience. If you are visiting New York, I highly recommend you to try on 53rd and 6th ave in midtown.
Location: Various, including the original on West 53rd and 6th Ave.
Specialty: Gyro platters, chicken over rice with secret white sauce.
Atmosphere: Classic NYC street food vibe.
Al Aqsa Restaurant – Yemeni Flavors in Brooklyn
I don’t know if you’ve ever tried mandi or not, but for the mandi lovers, I have something special for you. Al Aqsa Restaurant in Brooklyn’s Atlantic Avenue is a must-visit for you, if you would like to crave Yemeni food. They serve mouthwatering dishes like mandi (a fragrant rice and meat dish), haneeth (a slow-cooked lamb specialty), and fresh, warm flatbread. Once you get there, Al Aqsa feels like a little slice of Yemen in NYC. With a family-friendly atmosphere and flavors that transport you straight to the Middle East.
Location: 6917 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Specialty: Mandi, Haneeth lamb
Atmosphere: Cozy, family-owned feel
Also Read: The Best Pizza in Downtown Manhattan | Greenwich Village Special
Istanbul Kebab House – Turkish Cuisine in Midtown
We all know about Istanbul, right? Who doesn’t want to try their delicious food every time we see it on social media? Istanbul Kebab House brings the rich flavors of Turkey right to Manhattan. They are very popular for their savory lamb kebabs, mezze platters, and warm pita. This restaurant serves up Turkish classics with a halal-friendly menu. It’s a great place for friends and family to gather over delicious food, with dishes like baklava and Turkish coffee to wrap up the meal.
Location: 712 9th Ave, New York, NY 10019
Specialties: Lamb kebabs, Mezze
Atmosphere: Warm Mediterranean ambiance
Addy’s Barbeque – Halal American BBQ in Astoria
I’m one of the BBQ fans like no others. Addy’s Barbeque in Astoria brings American smoked meats into the halal spotlight. Like I said, some restaurants bring halal food in American flavors. They achieve their popularity for their brisket, ribs, and pulled chicken. Addy’s Barbeque offers a classic Southern-style barbeque with a halal twist and a fantastic place for those who love smokey, hearty flavors but want to stay halal. With a cozy, laid-back vibe, Addy’s is perfect for family outings or gatherings with friends.
Location: 30-94 Steinway St, Astoria, NY 11103
Specialty: Brisket, Smoked ribs
Atmosphere: Relaxed and welcoming
Yemen Café – A Brooklyn Staple for Yemeni Comfort Food
Definitely, Yemen Café in Brooklyn’s Cobble Hill is one of the best restaurants to try. They have been serving comforting Yemeni food to New Yorkers for decades. Their lamb haneeth (must-try dish), a fall-off-the-bone lamb dish cooked with a blend of spices, is a crowd favorite. Not only that, this restaurant makes you feel like a warm hug from home, especially when you pair their dishes with fresh bread and hearty soups. With over 30 years in the business, it’s more than just a cozy spot—it’s a beloved local institution.
Location: 7317 5th Ave, Brooklyn, NY 11209
Specialty: Lamb haneeth, Yemeni soups
Atmosphere: Casual and friendly
Salam Restaurant – Moroccan Cuisine in Harlem
If you’re looking for a hidden gem but in a halal way, Salam Restaurant is the one for you. This restaurant in Harlem offers Moroccan specialties like tagine, couscous, and harira soup. Their food is a beautiful mix of sweet and savory, with traditional spices that bring out the unique flavors of North Africa. Salam is a very cozy and family-run spot that’s full of color and warmth. The best part about this restaurant is, they offer private dining. The private dining area offers groups a unique experience of Middle Eastern culture, where guests can sit on comfortable cushions on the floor, sharing meals in an intimate and traditional setting. For me, this is what makes it a perfect stop for a flavorful Moroccan meal with friends or family.
Location: 104 W 13th St, New York, NY 10011
Specialty: Moroccan tagine, Couscous
Atmosphere: Warm and inviting
Find The Best Hidden Restaurent In New York City
Samarkand Restaurant – Unique Uzbek Food in Queens
I don’t know if you ever tried Uzbek cuisine or not, but in Rego Park, Samarkand Restaurant offers New Yorkers a taste of Uzbek cuisine. Their signature dish, plov, is a savory rice dish with meat and spices, but the menu also includes dumplings (manti) and skewered meats. They also have a seasonal item ‘Halisa’ which is slow cooked meat porridge, and I guess you should try that. Don’t forget to try their dessert ‘Baklava’ (which is my most favorite one). It’s a cozy and unique dining experience that brings a taste of Central Asia to NYC, perfect for adventurous eaters looking to try something new.
Location: 62-16 Woodhaven Blvd, Rego Park, NY 11374
Specialty: Plov, Manti dumplings
Atmosphere: Traditional and intimate
Haandi – Pakistani Street Food in Midtown
I know a lot of people love chicken tikka with garlic naan, and Haandi in Midtown offers that in the best way. It is a go-to spot for Pakistani street food flavors. They are Affordable, delicious, and always busy. Haandi is famous for dishes like chicken tikka, lamb biryani, and fresh naan. I’m a big fan of goat biryani but their lamb biryani is a must-try. It’s casual but always packed with flavor, ideal for a quick lunch or casual dinner that doesn’t skimp on spice or authenticity.
Location: 113 Lexington Ave, New York, NY 10016
Specialty: Chicken tikka, Biryani
Atmosphere: Bustling, laid-back
Kabab King – Late Night Halal Go-To
If you’re someone who thrives in lively, crowded spots, Kabab King in Jackson Heights is the one for you. This place is a staple for late-night cravings, drawing in a mix of locals and newcomers who know where to find good food. The moment you step inside, you’re welcomed by the warm, comforting aroma of Bangladeshi spices filling the air. You’ll find everything from juicy kebabs that are grilled just right to curries full of rich, layered flavors, and of course, the beloved biryani. The food is vibrant and hearty, the kind that feels like it was made to be shared with friends or savored after a long night out.
Open late, Kabab King is perfect if you need a filling, halal-friendly meal at any hour. Whether you’re out with friends or flying solo, Kabab King offers a real taste of Bangladesh right in Queens, all with a side of that classic New York hustle and bustle.
Location: 7301 37th Rd, Jackson Heights, NY 11372
Specialty: Kebabs, Curries
Atmosphere: Lively and casual
Afandi Grill – Trendy Middle Eastern in Brooklyn
Afandi Grill is where you go when you’re craving completely different flavors with a fresh, modern vibe. The moment you walk in, there’s this cozy, stylish energy that makes you want to settle in and stay awhile. Their menu brings all the Middle Eastern classics you love but with a twist that makes each dish feel new. You should try their shawarma, which is juicy and full of rich spices. Also, their hummus is so creamy and flavorful that it’s hard to stop dipping. And then there are the kebabs—grilled to perfection, tender, and smoky with just the right amount of char.
What’s special about Afandi Grill is how it keeps those traditional flavors but serves them up in a way that feels fresh and exciting. So if you’re looking for a spot that nails both taste and atmosphere, Afandi Grill is well worth a visit.
Location: 149 1st Ave New York, NY 10003
Specialty: Shawarma, Hummus
Atmosphere: Stylish and modern
Tips for Finding Halal Restaurants in NYC
- Look for Halal Certification: Many halal restaurants display their certification so you can dine with confidence.
- Use Halal Apps: Apps like Zabihah and HalalTrip help locate halal-certified spots.
- Ask for Local Recommendations: Locals often know the best hidden gems. So it’s really a great idea to ask locals for recommendations.
- Try Food Carts: Many NYC food carts offer great halal options for a quick, tasty meal. Like Halal Guys.