7 halal food places to try in London this Ramadan

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With the month of Ramadan approaching on 2 April, Dunyā lists seven halal restaurants and takeaways in which to break your fast, without the fear of missing prayers.

As a British Muslim, it is often difficult to find food spots to break your fast in during Ramadan. The fear of missing prayers means some Muslims avoid eating Iftar (the meal eaten to break the fast at sunset) whilst outside of their own homes. Here is a list of family-friendly food places in London that you can try, whilst keeping up with your five daily prayers.

1. Aziziye Restaurant, Stoke Newington

Located underneath the Aziziye Mosque, this restaurant specialises in Turkish food, serving kebabs, pide, and mixed grills. Private booths mean niqab-wearing women can remove their veils and eat with comfort, remaining unseen by other restaurant-goers. The restaurant is attached to the mosque, so you can complete your Maghrib prayers, and then go downstairs to break your fast.

2. The Great Chase, Angel

Throughout Ramadan, this restaurant will be offering a special three-course Iftar menu and on-site prayer facilities. The Great Chase is known for its fine-dining experience, serving European dishes such as the Sunday Roast and steak-dinners. They will be playing the call to prayer aloud in the restaurant whilst allowing customers to have 15 minutes of prayer time after serving starters.

3. Crave Joint, Upton Park

Ordering takeaway means you can break your fast in the comfort of your own home, being able to time your prayers accordingly, as well as taking your time to eat. This newly-opened branch in Newham serves mega-box meals which can satisfy all of your fast-food cravings during Ramadan. Their ‘Family Crave’ box consists of four burgers, chicken strips, chicken wings, donner meat, cheesy chips and an 11-inch pizza for just £48 — perfect for the whole family.

4. Saffron Kitchen, Leyton

This family-run Indian restaurant is great for large gatherings, providing private rooms for parties of more than 10 people. The large prayer rooms for both women and men easily allow diners to complete their prayers without leaving the restaurant. Known for their popular masala chips and curry dishes, Saffron Kitchen is a fantastic family restaurant to visit this Ramadan.

5. Zaha Grill, Holborn

For a healthier option, Zaha Grill serves protein boxes filled with rice, grilled chicken, lamb, falafel, or roasted vegetables topped with salad and hummus. Although there are no prayer facilities on site, this is a great option for a light takeaway meal. For those wishing to break their fast in the restaurant, they can pray Maghrib at Holborn Mosque, located a seven-minute walk away.

6. Beit el Zaytoun, Brent

Providing indoor and outdoor seating for warm nights, this Mediterranean restaurant is a good option for those planning a long night out in Ramadan. With plans to stay open for Suhoor (the pre-dawn meal) from 11pm-2am, diners have the option to either break their fast at the restaurant, or start their fast at before dawn. On-site prayer facilities and a buffet are on offer at this branch, serving shawarma, Lebanese pizza and wraps.

7. Manjaros, Ilford

Manjaros is a great option when you’re craving a blend of African and Carribean food. Located in Ilford, which boasts many halal restaurants, this is one of the few restaurants in the area which provide a segregated prayer room for diners to complete their prayers. Their most popular dishes are the ‘Rasta Pasta’ and ‘Hot-Shot Chicken Parmesan’.