A Vancouverite foodie. I was born and raised in Vancouver, so I always try to get out and explore the best halal eateries.
Now, the city is a bit like a culinary playground for everyone looking at diversity and desiring to indulge in halal-friendly dining—be it shawarma from the Middle East, a hearty South Asian curry, or even something exotic like a Malaysian laksa; you do not need to go far.
As a proud, food-obsessed human and Muslim, I’ve undertaken the duty of eating my way through Vancouver’s halal scene. I couldn’t be happier than to share my top ten favorite spots to eat with you.
These are the places where I return repeatedly; once you have been to one, you will know why. From street-side eats to cozy corner dining, here are ten great halal restaurants Vancouver offers: unique flavors and warm vibes, Instagrammable dishes, and many more.
I’ve included reviews from fellow foodies and everything you need about menus, addresses, and prices.
1. Nuba
Nuba – Comfort Lebanese Food with a Modern Twist
Address: 207 W Hastings St, Vancouver, BC V6B 1H7
Type: Lebanese, Middle Eastern
More information: www.nuba.ca
Among Vancouver’s most prized Lebanese restaurants, Nuba is famous for its fresh, wholesome, and healthy yet mouthwatering flavor. This place sources its materials from organic local producers and offers various options catering to vegetarians, vegans, and meat lovers alike. Inside, the atmosphere is bright, modern, and inviting, cozy enough for casual dining.
Menu Items of Note:
- Najib’s Special (Crispy Cauliflower) – $14
- Lamb Hushwie – $18
- Falafel Plate – $16
- Mjadra (Lentils & Rice) – $15
- Baklava – $7
Customer Reviews Nuba keeps up a consistent rating with delicious food and warm service. Here’s what reviewers have to say:
- “Nuba’s Najib’s Special is one of the best dishes I’ve ever had. It’s so crispy, and the lemony sauce provides a nice kick. I also loved their lamb hushwie, as it was comforting and delicious.” – Google Reviews.
- “This place is perfect for a casual meal or even to go on a date. Their menu is pretty eclectic and includes various vegetarian options. Ambiance is modern yet cozy; always friendly staff on-site, very helpful too.” – TripAdvisor.
- “Fresh, healthy, and super delicious. Nuba’s food is always on point. I love their falafel and hummus, it’s top three in Vancouver, at least.” – Yelp.
2. Saj & Co. – Middle Eastern Street Food in Vancouver
3. Siddhartha’s Indian Kitchen – Indian Flavors with a Modern Twist
Address: 2066 Commercial Dr, Vancouver, BC V5N 4A9
Cuisine: Indian
Website: www.siddharthasindiankitchen.com
Located in the bustling Commercial Drive neighborhood, Siddhartha’s Indian Kitchen offers a contemporary take on classic Indian dishes. The restaurant combines traditional Indian spices with modern cooking techniques, resulting in flavorful, aromatic dishes that are visually stunning and delicious.
Menu Highlights:
- Butter Chicken: $18
- Lamb Biryani: $20
- Paneer Tikka Masala: $16
- Tandoori Roti: $2
- Mango Lassi: $5
Customer Reviews
Siddhartha’s Indian Kitchen has garnered a loyal customer base due to its bold flavors and welcoming atmosphere:
- “The butter chicken here is to die for. It’s creamy, rich, and packed with flavor. The lamb biryani is another standout dish—fragrant and full of spices.” – Yelp.
- “A great place to dine with friends or family. The portions are generous, and the flavors are incredible. I always leave here satisfied.” – Google Reviews.
- “One of the best Indian restaurants in Vancouver. The food is authentic and made with care. The mango lassi is refreshing and pairs perfectly with the spicy dishes.” – TripAdvisor.
4. Zaatar W Zeit – Fast-Casual Lebanese Eats
Address: 531 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V6C 1X6
Cuisine: Lebanese, Mediterranean
Website: www.zaatarwzeit.com
Zaatar W Zeit is a fast-casual restaurant specializing in Lebanese manakeesh (flatbreads) and wraps. The flavors are vibrant, the service is quick, and the menu offers a variety of options that are perfect for lunch or dinner on the go. Whether you’re in the mood for a cheesy manakeesh or a savory chicken wrap, Zaatar W Zeit has something for everyone.
Menu Highlights:
- Chicken Tawouk Wrap: $12
- Beef Shawarma Platter: $14
- Zaatar Manakeesh: $8
- Cheese Manakeesh: $10
- Lentil Soup: $6
Customer Reviews
Zaatar W Zeit’s fresh ingredients and quick service make it a hit with customers. Here’s what they have to say:
- “The chicken tawouk wrap is always my go-to. It’s flavorful, juicy, and filling. The manakeesh is also a great option for a light lunch.” – Google Reviews.
- “Perfect place for a quick bite. The food is fresh, the service is fast, and the flavors are authentic. I love their zaatar manakeesh.” – TripAdvisor
- “The portions are generous, and the quality of the food is excellent. The lentil soup is delicious and pairs perfectly with any wrap.” – Yelp.
5. East Is East – A Journey Through the Silk Road
Address: 3035 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2G9
Cuisine: Afghan, Indian, Middle Eastern
Website: www.eastiseast.ca
East Is East is a unique fusion restaurant that takes diners on a culinary journey along the historic Silk Road. Combining flavors from Afghanistan, India, Persia, and beyond, this eclectic spot offers a dining experience rich in flavor and history. The restaurant’s interior is cozy and adorned with colorful textiles, offering an inviting atmosphere for intimate dinners and group gatherings.
Menu Highlights:
- Chai Feast: $29 (all-you-can-eat)
This is an all-inclusive experience that offers unlimited servings of dishes like coconut chicken curry, lamb kebabs, eggplant bharta, and their signature lentil daal. - Coconut Chicken Curry: $18
A creamy, coconut-based chicken curry with aromatic spices. - Lamb Kebab: $22
Juicy and flavorful lamb skewers served with rice, salad, and naan. - Vegan Platter: $24
A combination of vegetable curries, daals, and sides like basmati rice and roti.
Customer Reviews
East Is East has garnered praise for its inviting atmosphere and flavorful, unique dishes. Here’s what diners have to say:
- “The Chai Feast is incredible! You get to try many different dishes, and everything is flavorful. The lamb kebabs were my favorite, so juicy and perfectly spiced.” – TripAdvisor
- “East Is East is a feast for all the senses. The ambiance, the food, and music make this a memorable dining experience. I always leave satisfied.” – Yelp.
- “A must-visit if you’re in Vancouver. The coconut chicken curry was rich and delicious, and the service was warm and attentive. Highly recommended!” – Google Reviews.
6. The Afghan Horsemen – A Vancouver Classic
Address: 1833 Anderson St, Vancouver, BC V6H 4E5
Cuisine: Afghan, Middle Eastern
Website: www.afghanhorsemen.com
Opened in 1974, The Afghan Horsemen is one of Vancouver’s longest-standing halal restaurants. It’s famous for its cozy atmosphere, featuring traditional Afghan decor with floor seating and plush cushions. The restaurant offers authentic Afghan cuisine, including various grilled meats, flavorful rice dishes, and aromatic stews.
Menu Highlights:
- Kabuli Pulao: $22
Tender lamb shank served with saffron rice, raisins, and carrots. - Chicken Shish Kebab: $18
Marinated chicken grilled to perfection and served with salad and naan. - Bolani: $8
A crispy Afghan flatbread stuffed with potatoes and leeks. - Sabzi Chalow (Spinach Curry): $15
A rich spinach-based curry served with rice.
Customer Reviews
The Afghan Horsemen has built a reputation for its warm ambiance and delicious, hearty meals:
- “I love the atmosphere here, especially the traditional seating areas. The food is incredible—so flavorful and comforting. My favorite dish is the Kabuli Pulao, which is rich and aromatic.” – Google Reviews.
- “The Afghan Horsemen never disappoints. The chicken kebabs are juicy and perfectly seasoned, and the bolani is a great appetizer. A true gem in Vancouver.” – TripAdvisor
- “One of the best dining experiences in the city. The Afghan Horsemen is authentic, delicious, and perfect for a cozy dinner. The spinach curry is outstanding.” – Yelp.
7. Tandoori Oven – A South Asian Gem
Address: 1115 Davie St, Vancouver, BC V6E 1N2
Cuisine: Indian, Pakistani
Website: www.tandoorioven.ca
Tandoori Oven is a must-visit for fans of South Asian cuisine. The restaurant offers many halal dishes, from spicy curries to fragrant biryanis and its namesake tandoor-cooked meats. With its casual yet inviting atmosphere, the Tandoori Oven is ideal for a cozy meal with family or friends.
Menu Highlights:
- Butter Chicken: $18
Creamy, buttery, and mildly spiced, this classic Indian dish is a fan favorite. - Chicken Biryani: $17
A fragrant rice dish cooked with spices and tender pieces of chicken. - Lamb Vindaloo: $19
A fiery, tangy curry with tender chunks of lamb. - Vegetable Samosas: $7
Crispy pastry stuffed with a spiced potato and vegetable filling.
Customer Reviews
Customers rave about the flavors and consistency of Tandoori Oven’s dishes. Here are some reviews:
- “The butter chicken here is the best I’ve had in Vancouver. The sauce is creamy and flavorful, and the chicken is perfectly cooked. I also love the lamb vindaloo if you’re looking for something spicy.” – Yelp.
- “Tandoori Oven has become one of my go-to spots for Indian food. The biryani is always flavorful, and the portion sizes are generous. Highly recommend!” – TripAdvisor.
- “Delicious food at a reasonable price. The samosas are crispy, and the biryani is packed with flavor. I can’t wait to come back!” – Google Reviews.
8. Mamalee Malaysian Delight – Authentic Malaysian Cuisine
Address: 3144 W Broadway, Vancouver, BC V6K 2H3
Cuisine: Malaysian
Website: www.mamalee.ca
Mamalee Malaysian Delight offers some of the best halal Malaysian food in Vancouver. Known for its warm, family-run atmosphere, Mamalee serves traditional Malaysian dishes with a focus on authenticity. The flavors are bold and comforting, from hearty noodle soups to fragrant rice dishes.
Menu Highlights:
- Hainanese Chicken Rice: $14
A classic Malaysian dish featuring tender poached chicken with fragrant rice served with dipping sauces. - Curry Laksa: $13
A spicy, coconut-based noodle soup with tofu, shrimp, and chicken. - Beef Rendang: $16
A rich, slow-cooked beef dish in a coconut-based curry. - Roti Canai: $8
Flaky Malaysian flatbread served with curry sauce.
Customer Reviews
Mamalee is cherished for its authentic flavors and warm service. Here’s what diners have to say:
- “The Hainanese chicken rice here is incredible—so flavorful and tender. I also love the beef rendang, which is rich and satisfying. The service is always friendly.” – Google Reviews
- “If you’re looking for authentic Malaysian food, Mamalee is the place to go. The laksa is spicy, creamy, and packed with flavor.” – TripAdvisor
- “A hidden gem in Vancouver. The roti canai is perfectly flaky, and the chicken rice is a must-try. Highly recommend this spot!” – Yelp
9. Dairy Queen (DQ) – The Halal-Friendly Treat
Address: 607 Granville St, Vancouver, BC V7Y 1G5
Cuisine: Fast Food, Ice Cream
Website: www.dairyqueen.com
While Dairy Queen (DQ) is best known for its ice cream treats, the Granville Street location in Vancouver has become a halal-friendly fast-food stop, offering a range of meal options that are certified halal. In addition to their famous soft-serve cones, blizzards, and sundaes, DQ serves halal-friendly burgers, fries, and chicken strips. After exploring the city, it’s a great spot for a quick, affordable meal or a sweet treat.
Menu Highlights:
- Halal Chicken Strips Basket: $9.99
Crispy chicken strips served with fries, Texas toast, and a choice of dipping sauce. - FlameThrower GrillBurger (Halal): $8.49
A spicy grilled burger with pepper jack cheese, jalapeños, and flame-thrower sauce. - Classic DQ Sundae: $4.29
Vanilla soft serve topped with hot fudge, caramel, or strawberry sauce. - Blizzard Treats: $5.99
Soft-serve ice cream mixed with candies like Oreos, Reese’s, and M&M’s.
Customer Reviews
DQ’s Vancouver location has garnered positive reviews for offering halal meal options in addition to its iconic ice cream.
- “This DQ location is a go-to for quick halal-friendly meals. I love their chicken strips—crispy, juicy, and perfect with the fries. And of course, the blizzards are always amazing.” – Google Reviews.
- “Great to have a halal option at Dairy Queen. The FlameThrower burger is delicious with a good amount of spice, and the ice cream is always a winner.” – Yelp.
- “Who doesn’t love DQ for a sweet treat? The halal chicken strips were a pleasant surprise. Good value for the price!” – TripAdvisor
10. Medina Café – A Cozy Mediterranean Brunch Spot
Address: 780 Richards St, Vancouver, BC V6B 3A4
Cuisine: Mediterranean, Belgian
Website: www.medinacafe.com
Medina Café is an iconic brunch destination in Vancouver that fuses Mediterranean flavors with a Belgian twist. Known for its cozy atmosphere and famous for its signature waffles, Medina offers a range of halal-friendly dishes in an upscale yet casual setting. The restaurant is especially popular for brunch, with a menu that’s brimming with vibrant, flavorful options.
Menu Highlights:
- Tagine (Halal Lamb): $25
A Moroccan-inspired lamb dish slow-cooked with apricots, raisins, and aromatic spices, served with couscous. - Harissa Burger (Halal Chicken): $18
Spicy harissa-marinated chicken patty served with sumac aioli and Moroccan-spiced fries. - Belgian Waffles: $5.95 each
Light, fluffy waffles served with various toppings, including milk chocolate lavender, salted caramel, and berry compote. - Fricassée (Halal Beef): $24
A rich beef stew with poached eggs, roasted potatoes, and harissa sauce.
Customer Reviews
Medina Café is consistently praised for its delicious food and chic, cozy vibe. Here’s what people are saying:
- “Medina Café is a must-visit for brunch. The tagine was bursting with flavor, and the lamb was so tender. Don’t forget to get a waffle for dessert!” – TripAdvisor
- “I love the harissa burger—it’s spicy and juicy, and the fries are perfectly crispy. The café itself is cozy and stylish, a perfect spot for brunch.” – Yelp.
- “Great atmosphere and even better food. The lamb tagine is amazing, and the waffles are worth every calorie. Medina Café never disappoints.” – Google Reviews
Vancouver has a diverse food scene with a variety of halal restaurants. From the Middle Eastern flavors at Nuba, to the fusion cuisine of East Is East, and the cozy brunch at Medina Café, there’s something for every taste and occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for a quick bite, a luxurious dinner, or a sweet treat, these top halal restaurants have you covered. Don’t miss out on the rich culinary experiences that Vancouver has to offer!
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