Explore Houston’s 11 Best Halal Restaurants for Ramadan

Ramadan, a sacred month revered by Muslims worldwide, is a time of fasting, worship, introspection, and fellowship. During this hallowed period, followers abstain from consuming food and beverages between dawn and dusk for an entire month. Houston, boasting a flourishing Islamic community and the most extensive Muslim population in Texas, offers an abundance of dining establishments tailored to those honoring the fast. Houston is known for having some of the best halal restaurants in the country, with a wide range of cuisines to choose from, including Pakistani, Indian, Middle Eastern, and more.

If you’re searching for the best halal restaurants in your city, be sure to check out the online reviews and ratings before making a reservation.

Explore our curated list of 11 best halal restaurants in Houston, ideal for nourishing pre-sunrise (suhur) or post-sunset (iftar) meals.

Abu Omar Halal

Originating as Houston’s pioneering halal food truck, Abu Omar Halal has since evolved into a culinary sensation, operating a fleet of mobile food venues and establishing brick-and-mortar locations across the city. They have even expanded their presence to Tampa, Florida. At each outpost, patrons can savor an exquisite array of shawarma, falafel, and gyro dishes, presented in various forms such as wraps, heaped over rice and vegetables, or as enticing “Arabi” style morsels.

The Afghan Village

Nestled in the Gulfton neighborhood, this family-owned eatery specializes in authentic Afghan cuisine. Their menu boasts traditional dishes such as Kabul Palau, the country’s symbolic meal that combines succulent lamb, fragrant seasoned rice, raisins, and sweet carrots. In addition, diners can relish the flavors of chicken karahi, a variety of kebabs, and bouranee baunjan – a delectable Afghan eggplant creation adorned with a luscious yogurt sauce.

Aga’s

Situated in southwest Houston, this family-friendly Indo-Pak restaurant offers a delightful array of dishes to satisfy every palate. The extensive menu features an assortment of curries, chargrilled kebabs, flavorful vegetables, and crispy fried specialties that will leave everyone content. Be sure to try their mouthwatering barbecue platters, delicious fish tikka masala, tender goat korma, and exquisite Peshawari-style paneer karahi for a truly memorable dining experience.

Related: 10 Best Halal-Friendly Destinations for Muslim Travelers

Al Aseel Grill and Cafe

Embark on a culinary journey at this Middle Eastern halal grill by starting your meal with a selection of appetizers, refreshing Turkish salad, rich chicken liver, and hearty foul mudammas. As you move on to the main course, indulge in the succulent lamb kouzi and flavorful beef kofta kebabs, or opt for the grilled or fried pomfret fish. To experience a true gastronomic delight, don’t miss their signature dish—a whole fried halal chicken, accompanied by a refreshing tomato and cucumber salad.

Cedars Bakery

Upon entering this Lebanese bakery, you’ll be greeted by the enticing aroma of freshly baked flatbread. Cedars Bakery extends hours till 6 a.m. on Thu, Fri, and Sat during Ramadan. Try Lebanese “pizza” with Akkawi cheese, beef, mushrooms, spinach, and za’atar.

Kasra Persian Grill

Established in 1999 and beloved by locals, Kasra Persian Grill offers authentic Persian cuisine at two convenient locations. Treat your taste buds to the kashke bademjan, a luscious roasted eggplant dip, or gather with friends to share a platter of assorted kebabs. Be sure to experience their succulent braised lamb shank, perfectly accompanied by a bed of fragrant basmati rice.

Nazif’s

Nazif’s is a Turkish restaurant on the west side of Houston. They offer a unique iftar buffet during Ramadan with shakshuka, muhammara, eggplant salad, lentil soup, and chicken Adana kebabs. Be sure to save some space for their delectable desserts, such as the classic baklava and the irresistible kataifi pudding

Pasha Turkish Restaurant

Pasha serves certified halal and zabihah cuisine for nearly 20 years in Rice Village. Start with a mezze platter, followed by the sigara borek with crispy phyllo rolls and savory cheese mixture.

Taco Fuego

Houston’s culinary scene offers delightful surprises which serve up an enticing variety of halal Mexican dishes. Savor mouthwatering options like succulent beef barbacoa, and tender shredded brisket, all nestled within fresh corn tortillas, accompanied by classic toppings of onions, cilantro, jalapeños, and salsa verde. Alternatively, opt for a burrito wrapped in a cheese-crusted flour tortilla for an extra crunch. Don’t miss out on Taco Fuego’s inventive fusion creations, like ramen birria and birria pupusa, which showcase their playful approach to cuisine.

Twisted Turban

Houston boasts a vibrant food scene and Twisted Turban stands out with its unique fusion of Texan, all featuring 100% halal meat. This lively Westside eatery offers a diverse menu with an inventive twist, including tacos and burgers. Savor griddled flatbread “tortillas” filled with delicious ingredients like braised beef and mango salsa. Try the mouthwatering halal beef patty stuffed with serrano peppers, jalapeño chips, and house diablo sauce for a burger. Indulge in the Texas chalupa chaat, which combines spicy chicken, roasted corn, and chutney for an unforgettable fusion dish.

Zoa Moroccan Kitchen

Looking for a convenient and flavorful iftar option? Zoa Moroccan Kitchen offers a create-your-own-bowl experience and an iftar Ramadan package during the holy month. Try beef kofta rice bowls with spicy red harissa sauce or chicken chermoula sandwiches with pickles and olives. Pair with Fatima bread and lamb lentil soup, and end with Moroccan tea and walnut-stuffed dates. Find them in Washington and Bellaire.

To experience the best halal restaurants in your area, consider taking a food tour of halal cuisine. This offers a chance to sample dishes at various restaurants.

If you’re a Muslim looking for the best halal restaurants for your Ramadan there’s everything at Houston’s halal restaurants.