Part of travelling is having some amazing food. So I thought I will ask some of London’s best halal food hunter, Halal Girl About Town, to get me the best restaurants we should check out. I have to be honest, I am heading down to London and this is partially selfish move since I wanted to try some good halal food, but of course, I had to share it with you. 😉
It’s a well known fact that London is one of the best food capitals in the world, and for halal food, it beats the majority of other great food cities such as New York, Paris, and Spain (with the exception of the UAE). You’re able to find a variety of cuisines, from Sri Lankan to Thai to Caribbean, across this vast city, and the greater part of them are happy to cater for those of us who observe halal.
Due to the high number of halal eateries in London, I’ve managed to gather a list of my five favourite restaurants in London right now. Not only is the food good at these places, but the atmosphere and service is great too.
Hoppers
photo HGAT
Although they opened quite a while back, Hoppers still has queues around the block because they are that good. Their huge egg hoppers or podi dosas always go down a treat and is the perfect lunch-time option without making a dent in your wallet. My tip would be to visit at lunchtime mid-week to avoid the crowd, and if you’re a spice-fiend, you have to order the deviled shrimps.
Lamb, mutton and chicken is halal
Serves pork and alcohol.
Location: Soho [49 Frith St, London W1D 4SG]
Stax Diner
photo HGAT
After a long day of shopping on Oxford Street, treat yourself to an indulgent and hearty meal at Stax Diner in Carnaby. The menu is focused mainly on their delicious burgers (think blue cheese and maple-glazed beef bacon burger), but if you’re not in the mood for beef, check out their fried chicken and waffles.
All meat is halal.
No pork but serves alcohol.
Location: Carnaby, just off Regents Street [Kingly Court, London W1B 5PW]
Spicy Basil
photo HGAT
Serving up some of the most delicious, no-frill, halal Thai food in London, Spicy Basil is a great hidden halal gem. Not only are the dishes substantial, but you’re able to keep the entire meal for under £10 each, which is a bonus when it comes to food this good. My top picks would be the beef noodles with basil, garlic, & chilli, Thai green curry, and chicken satay.
All meat is halal.
No pork or alcohol served.
Location: Kilburn [165 Kilburn High Road, Kilburn, London NW6 7HY]
Mahdi Restaurant
photo Mahdi restaurant
A family-run restaurant that serves up one of the most authentic Persian’s in London. From generous portions to quick service, it’s not hard to see why there is always a small wait to be seated (even mid-week!). My suggestion would be to go for the mixed grill for two to have the ultimate meat feast.
All meat is halal.
No pork or alcohol served.
Location: Hammersmith [215-217 King St, London W6 9JT]
Chai Ki
photo Chai Ki
A lovely Indochinese restaurant situated in the bustling office area of Canary Wharf. Sister to the popular Roti Chai (an Indian establishment also worth visiting!), you can expect dishes like shakarkandi chaat, crispy chilli chicken (my favourite), and chicken lollipops with an Asian twist. They serve a different menu both upstairs and downstairs, with the latter delivering a more formal menu.
Lamb and chicken is halal.
Serves pork and alcohol.
Location: Canary Wharf [Crossrail Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 5AR]
There you have it, 5 delicious restaurants to check out next time you visit London.