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Minoa

A stunning new restaurant in Romford, located at The City Pavilion, has just opened its doors, and it’s already making waves. Minao boasts an expansive menu brimming with Pan-Asian flavours from the Far East, promising a culinary journey that tantalizes the senses, with a Fully Halal Food Menu.

Ambience and Decor

The first thing that catches the eye upon entering Minao is its breathtaking decor. The space is both spacious and modern, exuding a bougie vibe that is sure to impress. The interior design seamlessly blends contemporary elegance with subtle Asian influences, creating an inviting atmosphere perfect for both casual dining and special occasions. Additionally, there’s an outdoor dining area, offering a serene spot to enjoy your meal under the sky.

A Pan-Asian Feast

With nearly 70 items on the menu, Minao’s offerings are as diverse as they are delicious. For this review, I indulged in an array of dishes, far more than my usual order, to get a comprehensive taste of what Minao has to offer.

Dragon Roll (£13.90) ⭐

The Dragon Roll was a standout. This sushi roll was a harmonious blend of fresh ingredients and vibrant flavors. The presentation was impeccable, and each bite delivered a delightful mix of textures and tastes that left me thoroughly impressed.

Char Sui Chicken Bao (£11.50)

The Char Sui Chicken Bao was delicious, with soft, fluffy buns encasing tender, flavorful chicken. The only downside was that it left us wanting a touch more of that delectable filling to fully satisfy our cravings.

Black Pearl Dumpling (£12.50)

These dumplings were a delightful treat, with a rich, savory filling encased in perfectly steamed dough. Each bite was a burst of umami, making it a memorable part of the meal.

Spiced Cumin Roasted Lamb (£13)

The spiced cumin roasted lamb was impressively tender and juicy. The cumin flavor was present but more subtle than expected, providing a gentle warmth that complemented the lamb beautifully.

Chicken Karage (£11.50)

The Chicken Karage offered a crispy, golden exterior with succulent chicken inside. It was a delightful snack that paired wonderfully with the dipping sauce provided.

Wasabi Prawn (£14.90) ⭐

The Wasabi Prawns were another highlight. Tempura-fried prawns covered in a wasabi mayonnaise sauce, the flavors worked harmoniously to create a dish that was both bold and balanced.

Satay Gai (£11.50)

The chicken satay featured perfectly cooked, tender chicken breast cubes. The accompanying sauce, while good, could have used a touch more complexity to elevate the dish to the next level.

Lamb Black Pepper (£16.50)

The lamb black pepper had a melt-in-your-mouth texture, with a black pepper presence that was prominent yet could benefit from a bit more intensity to truly stand out.

Kung Po Chicken (£13.50)

This dish offered a flavorful and spicy experience, with tender chicken pieces coated in a rich, tangy sauce that delivered a satisfying punch of heat.

Pad Thai Chicken (£10.50)

The Pad Thai presented a unique twist on the classic dish, featuring a sweet and tangy sauce that provided a refreshing departure from tradition. While not the most authentic rendition, it was enjoyable and well-executed.

Thai Green Prawn Curry (£16.50) ⭐

The Thai Green Prawn Curry came highly recommended, and it did not disappoint. The curry had layers of flavor, balancing subtle heat and sweetness perfectly. As a lover of Thai food, this dish was a standout for its depth and complexity.

Overall Experience

With its extensive menu, Minao ensures there’s something for everyone. The decor and vibe are brilliant, making it an ideal spot for both date nights and family outings. The City Pavilion location also offers ample parking and additional entertainment options like a bowling alley and arcade, adding to the appeal.

All food at Minao is halal, and while pork is absent from the menu, alcohol is available for those who wish to indulge.

My meal was complimentary, but all thoughts and opinions are my own. If you’re in Romford, Minao is definitely worth a visit for its exceptional Pan-Asian cuisine and stylish ambience.

Places to visit for Iftar in London 2024

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As we approach the midpoint of Ramadan, Muslims in London are immersed in the spiritual journey of fasting from dawn till dusk. With the sun setting just after 6 pm, the anticipation of breaking the fast with loved ones grows stronger by the day. Fortunately, London’s culinary scene rises to the occasion, offering a plethora of options for memorable Iftar experiences. From esteemed establishments to cozy eateries, we’ve curated a list of the finest spots in London to relish Iftar during this sacred month of Ramadan in 2024. Join us on a gastronomic adventure through the heart of the capital!

The Great Chase

📍 316, St.John Street, Clerkenwell, EC1V 4NT

A fine dining experience with a varied menu that includes premium meat, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. They offer a special iftar menu during Ramadan.

Mr White’s English Chophouse

103-107, 103 New Rd, London E1 1HJ

The Orangery by Sapna

 Golf Club, Stockley Park, Hayes, Uxbridge UB11 1AQ

Mumbai 7

📍: 118 Aldborough Road South, IG3 8EZ

This year, we’re excited to unveil our special Ramadan menu for all the food enthusiasts out there. Kindly note, we won’t be offering our regular Ala carte menu during this sacred month. To ensure a smooth and timely service, please pre-order before your visit. We appreciate your patience, as we strive to serve everyone’s meals promptly. To place your pre-order, call us or email at info@mumbai7.co.uk, and don’t forget to mention your reservation details.

Swirldrop Treats

📍: 522 High Road, Woodford Green IG3 8EG

A dessert spot known for its social good initiatives. They offer a variety of treats that could be suitable for iftar.

Steakout

A casual dining steakhouse with premium steaks, handmade burgers, and fresh pies.

Desi Lounge

📍 464 Bethnal Grn Rd, London E2 0EA

Bursa Kebapevi Angel

📍: 341 Upper St, London N1 0PB

Nobu London

If you are Elon Musk then, this Ramadan, Nobu London offers an exclusive Iftar tasting menu that will tantalise your taste buds – for £160

With a selection of Japanese fusion cuisine in a specially crafted six-course set menu, it is bound to be a culinary experience to remember.

Available to order every dinner from 11th March till 9th April.

Grizzly’s

📍: 3 Minnie Baldock St, London E16 1YE

Ayam Zaman

Syrian Restaurant in Shepherd’s Bush
Serving the most delicious dishes of Syrian & Lebanese cuisine
📍 258 Uxbridge Rd,White City,London, W12 7JA

Get Stuffed

📍

Nosh restaurant

📍 11-13 Clements Rd, Ilford IG1 1BH

Take Away Boxes

Spice Village 

Spice Village restaurants in Southall and Tooting offer special Iftar menus for Ramadan. In Southall, guests can enjoy a festive buffet with complimentary dates, pakoras, and rohafza (rose drink) alongside a variety of main dishes for £21.99 on weekdays and £24.99 on weekends. The Tooting branch presents an Iftar set menu at £34.99, featuring authentic Pakistani cuisine. Both locations serve 100% halal food

📍 121 Upper Tooting Road, SW17 7TJ
📍 185-189 The Broadway, UB1 1LX
spicevillagerestaurants.co.uk

Haweli Restaurant

📍 Ilford Branch
300-302 Ilford Lane, Ilford IG1 2LR, UK
📞 Call us at 020 8553 2227!

📍 Southall Branch
171-173 The Broadway, London, Southall.
📞 Call us at 020 8867 9222 or explore our menu online at www.haweli.co.uk.

Hyderabadi Spice 

📍309 High St N, London E12 6SL

Meet Bros

Paddington is known for one type of restaurant, Malaysian It is the home of so many great spots all of which are part of a community, but MeetBros is slightly different. Think of it as a Malaysian-owned steak house with a “Western” menu set inside a former Lebanese-themed restaurant. 

The menu actually has a wide variety with a focus on Italian classics like Salads, Pizza and pasta – but there are also Burgers, Steaks and dishes from Southeast Asia.  

The underground setting, inherited from its Lebanese predecessor, transports diners to a captivating cave, adorned with materials and features imported from a charming Lebanese village. It sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience.

Starters

 

Meet Bros Spring Rolls – £10

Our evening began on a delightful note with these crispy pastry rolls stuffed with BBQ Angus beef and melted cheese. The flavours melded beautifully, earning a solid 9/10.

Duck Pancakes – £14
While the idea was promising, the duck turned out a bit dry and the hoisin sauce lacked the punch we expected. A suggestion for improvement would be to ensure the duck stays moist and the sauce gets that extra kick. 6/10

White Prawns – £15
Sautéed to perfection in a delectable sambal sauce, these prawns were a highlight. I liked the addition of the Fried Mantao, my first time trying one, it’s basically like a deep-fried bao bun 8/10.

Thai Style Beef Salad – £18


The sirloin steak in this salad was slightly overcooked, making it tough to chew. A bit more attention to steak doneness would elevate this dish. 6/10

Pasta

Mushrooms Truffle Pasta – £18


Although we anticipated a more robust truffle flavour, the pasta was subtly seasoned with truffle oil. To enhance the dish, a bolder truffle presence is recommended. 7/10

Main Courses

BBQ Sesame Chilli Boneless Beef Short Ribs – £25

The succulent ribs bathed in a flavorful sauce were a hit, though the accompanying salad felt superfluous. A suggestion would be to reconsider the presentation to let the ribs shine. 8.5/10

Lobster Curry Noodles – £40

While the lobster was perfectly cooked, the coconut broth could benefit from more depth and bold Malaysian flavours. A little more assertiveness in the seasoning would make this dish truly exceptional. 7/10

Beef Ribs Biryani – £32
While the beef was flavorful and tender, the rice lacked the authentic spices found in traditional Biryani. Incorporating those spices would take this dish to the next level. 7.5/10

Lamb Shank – £32

Regrettably, this particular dish proved to be a letdown. The lamb did not exhibit the desired tenderness one might expect, failing to achieve the characteristic of effortlessly falling off the bone – which I know is not an indication of taste. I found it notably tough, suggestive of potentially being prepared from the previous day. The flavours of miso and aubergine just didn’t work. 3 of us and no one wanted more than one bite, sadly went to waste. 3/10

Steaks

MeetBros prides itself on an extensive selection of steaks from around the world, There’s a freezer that houses all of the different cuts and types of steak that you can see in the restaurant, with cuts imported from all over the world, and there are steaks from Australia, Argentina, Ireland and of course the UK. 

Wagyu Striploin – £75

Wagyu Striplon from Australia, comes with an MBS score of 4 to 5, and in the world of Wagyu, those numbers matter. MBS, or Marbling Score, essentially quantifies how much marbling and fat are present in your precious steak, ranging up to 9, That low MBS number doesn’t quite cut it for me.

In the land of steak, Wagyu holds an almost mythical status. It’s often envisioned as a transcendent experience, where every bite should be as effortless as a hot knife gliding through butter, delivering a sublime, buttery soft texture and an explosion of flavor. The reality, however, can sometimes fall short of this heavenly promise.

The Wagyu Striplon steak I encountered fell into this trap and the first slice hinted at an impending letdown. When I sank my teeth into it, I anticipated a melty, succulent masterpiece. What I got was quite the opposite—a chewy, unremarkable affair that left me yearning for that expected richness of taste.

To make matters worse, the price tag didn’t align with the experience. When you’re shelling out a significant sum for a steak, you anticipate a flavour explosion that justifies every penny spent. Regrettably, this Wagyu Striplon failed to deliver that value for money. 5/10

T-bone Steak – £40


The T-bone steak is sourced from Ireland and is also HMC certified, had potential but suffered from uneven cooking. Consistency in preparation would elevate this choice. 7/10

Steaks are priced by weight, so the price you see on the menu is a guide if you see £28 for 100g – an average steak is 250g so that’s £28×2.5 which is around £70

Desserts

Fried Banana Fritters – £13.20

Kataifi Wrap Banana, Palm Sugar, Vanilla Bean Ice Cream & Candied Nuts – it was nice to see a classic Malaysian dessert on the menu, The addition of a Kataifi Wrap (which is a very fine vermicelli-like pastry used in Middle Eastern cuisines) was a great twist. 8/10

Chocolate Fondant – £10


With a gooey centre and rich chocolate taste, this dessert provided a satisfying conclusion to our meal. 8/10

Drinks

MeetBros offers an array of fruity cocktails, though some might need a more complex flavour profile.

I tried a range of different drinks – here’s what i tried. 

Lychee Mojito £11 Lime, Lychee, Fresh Mint, Soda, Palm Sugar , 

Passionata £11, Fresh Passion Fruit Pulp, Rosemary, Pineapple Juice, Forest Honey

Watermelon cooler £12, Ice Blended Lychee, Watermelon, Lemon Juice, Mint Leaves

Assamenta £11 Green Apple, Soda, Fresh Mint, Sour Plum, Mento Cubano

For me the drinks didn’t live up to the price tag, it was just sweet, fruity and fizzy – nothing to take it to the next level like an ingredient or flavour that develops over time.  

Final Thoughts

MeetBros offers a diverse culinary journey, where Malaysian influences meet the sophistication of a steakhouse. While some dishes shine brilliantly, others have room for improvement. The steaks, in particular, didn’t fully meet our expectations. However, with a varied menu and unique ambience, it’s a place worth exploring, especially if you’re searching for a fusion dining experience.

The restaurant is fully halal with no alcohol on the menu and offers a nice prayer space as well, so you don’t miss out on prayers. 

Whether you’re a fan of Malaysian cuisine or simply looking for something different, MeetBros is a destination worth considering. The crowning glory of this establishment undeniably lies in its decor. MeetBros’ captivating and unique ambience, reminiscent of an enchanting underground cave, sets it apart as a truly remarkable dining destination.

(Note: This meal was complimentary, unable to give a true representation of the service as we were looked after by the operations manager for this review)

Address29-31 Craven Rd, London W2 3BX

Toba

As a seasoned food blogger fortunate enough to have dined at well over 1000 restaurants in the span of 10 years, I thought I had experienced it all. Yet, Toba managed to surprise me in the most delightful way possible, serving up some of the finest and most cherished dishes I have ever had the pleasure of eating.

Toba brings a taste of Indonesia to London from Chef Pino who owns a street food spot in Camden @pinoswarung a spot I loved when I visited after coming back to London from my travels in visited when only outdoor places were the only things open during lockdown 2.

I was in Indonesia for over a month during the start of the pandemic in 2021 and got to experience the authentic flavours of the rich culture 1st hand from different islands in the country. I love the food there so was really excited to try the first Indonesian restaurant in London. 

Menu
Menu

Lets talk about the food!

Sate Ayam £11.50

Our culinary journey began with their irresistible Chicken Satay. What immediately caught our attention was their choice of using tender chicken thighs, resulting in a succulent and juicy bite. But Toba took it a step further, presenting the skewers of grilled chicken generously coated in their homemade peanut sauce and kecap manis. It was a stroke of brilliance. With each bite, we savoured the succulent and juicy chicken, enhanced by the nutty and slightly sweet flavours of the sauce. It was a harmonious combination that left us wanting more.

Every morsel of chicken was infused with delectable flavours, ensuring that each mouthful was an absolute delight. The succulence of the chicken, the char from the grill, and the richness of the sauce came together in a marriage of flavours that left us longing for more.


While I sat, eagerly anticipating the arrival of the mains, the aromas wafting from the kitchen filled the restaurant and transported me to the streets of Indonesia, igniting memories of vibrant flavours and mouthwatering food.

Gulai Kambing £18

Ladies and Gents, you know I don’t hype places and give out 10’s but this dish right here scores a rare 10/10. This Indonesian Lamb Curry was an extraordinary culinary experience. The lamb shank itself was a revelation. Cooked to perfection, it was incredibly tender, practically melting in my mouth with each bite. However, what truly elevated this dish was the remarkable sauce that the lamb bathed in, bursting with an explosion of flavours, it was a symphony of spices and aromatics that makes me want to sing from the rooftops.

The taste reminded me of a Thai red curry, but with an intensified and more complex profile. The depth of flavour was unparalleled, leaving a lasting impression on my taste buds. This dish was a pure joy to eat and had me smiling with each bite, when I try food at a restaurant, I dream about dishes that can blow me away, this one did – 10/10 – faultless. 

As a seasoned food blogger and world traveller, I can confidently say that this dish ranks among the best I have ever had. It was a true masterpiece that showcased the richness and finesse of Indonesian cuisine. 

Beef Rendang £16.50

Beef Rendang is my all-time favourite meal, when I was travelling around Malaysia and Indonesia a few years ago I was eating eat everywhere. The slow cooking process of six hours truly worked wonders, resulting in layers upon layers of rich and complex flavours. The sweetness from the toasted coconut added a delightful touch, while the subtle heat from the chillies danced on my tongue. The meat itself was incredibly tender, practically melting in my mouth with each bite. The effort put into the slow cooking was evident in the depth of flavour and the tenderness of the beef. It was a true culinary delight that left me longing for more, I just wish there was more of it.

Mie Tek Tek Jawa £14

The next dish we tried was Mie Tek Tek Jawa, fried noodles with chicken and beef and honestly, I didn’t think every dish could be as amazing as the ones before. But let me tell you, when my friend and I took our first bites together, we couldn’t help but burst into laughter – how was everything we ate so good?! I mean, seriously, these noodles were next-level delicious. They had this incredible mix of sweetness, heat, and an overall fantastic flavour that blew me away. I have to say, hands down, they were the best noodles I’ve had. I was totally hooked from that very first bite.

Terong Balado £11
I’ve never had Grilled aubergine cooked like this another delicious dish, the spicy sauce had some lovely flavours.


From the moment the first plate was set before me, it was clear that Toba’s culinary prowess was unparalleled. Each mouthful was a melody of flavors, a masterful blend of aromatic herbs, vibrant spices, and the sheer passion that goes into creating authentic Indonesian cuisine. With every bite, I found myself transported back to the bustling streets of Jakarta, the serene beauty of Bali, and the rich cultural tapestry that defines this diverse nation.

Toba’s food was not just nourishment for the body but a true feast for the senses. Each dish was meticulously crafted, showcasing the restaurant’s commitment to showcasing the best of Indonesian culinary traditions. Whether it was the fragrant rendang, tender and succulent, or the fiery sambal that danced on my tongue, the skill and care put into each creation were evident.

But what truly set Toba apart was the way in which they managed to infuse their dishes with a sense of joy. The food here was more than sustenance; it was an experience that brought smiles to the faces of all who indulged. Every bite was an adventure, a voyage through the diverse flavours of Indonesia, leaving me eagerly anticipating the next culinary surprise that awaited.

As I write this review, I can’t help but feel a deep sense of gratitude for stumbling upon Toba. It has reminded me why I fell in love with food in the first place and reignited my passion for exploring new culinary horizons. Toba is not just a restaurant; it is a celebration of Indonesian cuisine, a testament to the incredible flavours that this nation has to offer.

If you’re seeking an extraordinary dining experience that will transport you to the heart of Indonesia and leave you with a smile on your face, look no further than Toba. Be prepared to embark on a gastronomic journey like no other, where each mouthful is a delight and every dish is crafted with love. Toba is a hidden gem that deserves to be celebrated, cherished, and, above all, savoured.

This meal just made me fall in love with food, it was a delight and joy to eat. The restaurant itself has a cosy, modern and unpretentious atmosphere. Chef Pino was working hard in the kitchen but also taking time to talk to his guests, creating a feeling of eating at someone’s home.

I also liked that they hold back on spices and heat, they proudly embrace bold flavours and deliver an experience that stays true to the traditional roots of their cuisine. They don’t shy away from the authentic intensity, allowing you to savour the true essence of their dishes. It’s a refreshing departure from the mainstream, providing an unforgettable dining experience for those seeking an unapologetically spicy and authentic culinary journey.

If there’s one restaurant you visit, make sure it’s this. Get that lamb shank curry and go to bed dreaming about it as I did (Yes, I really did have a dream about it)

All Food is Halal. There is Alcohol served.

The Banc

I had the opportunity to dine at this restaurant, which I first visited back in 2015 when it was one of the few premium halal establishments available. However, since then, the culinary scene has evolved, and the restaurant now finds itself amidst a sea of similar establishments offering the same style of food.

Here’s what I ate.

Banc Money Bags £12
Chicken Lollipops £11
Wagyu Beef Sliders (3) £10

Rib Eye Steak £42
Fusion Grill £25
Handcut Chips £5
Mac & Cheese £6

Mousse Au Chocolat £10
Queen Of Hearts £10

Matrix £8.50
Virgin Colada £8.50

Let me delve into the specific dishes I tried. The “Banc Money Bags” priced at £12 were a nice start to the meal. The steamed buns were wonderfully soft, and the slow-cooked beef brisket filling inside was flavorful and enjoyable. Moving on, the Wagyu Beef Sliders priced at £10 for three sliders were a highlight. The beef was succulent, and the sliders were a delightful treat for the taste buds. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said for the chicken lollipops. Priced at £11, they were dry and had an unpleasant taste, as if they were cooked using old oil.

The disappointment continued with the Rib Eye Steak, priced at a staggering £42. The steak turned out to be excessively salty, with some bites being practically inedible. Additionally, the cut of the steak was disappointingly thin, not living up to the expectations that accompany such a hefty price tag. Similarly, the “fusion grill” dish priced at £25 failed to impress. Both the lamb and chicken had the same marinade, resulting in a lack of distinction in taste. Furthermore, the lamb fillet lacked flavor, further contributing to the overall disappointment.

 

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Moving on to dessert, the strawberry mille-feuilles fell short of expectations. Priced at £10, the pastry was hard and overly thick, failing to achieve the delicate balance expected from a mille-feuille. The cream lacked flavour and had an unfortunate resemblance to cheap squirty cream from a can. However, the Mousse Au Chocolat offered a more satisfying end to the meal.

The drinks at The Banc were notably expensive, with mocktails priced at £8.50 each. Unfortunately, the “matrix” drink I tried was unbalanced and contained an excessive amount of ice, compromising the overall flavour. The Virgin Colada, priced at the same amount, stood out as the only drink I truly enjoyed.

In terms of ambience, The Banc boasts a stylish decor that makes it an appealing venue for special occasions. The service provided by the staff was commendable, contributing to a pleasant dining experience. Additionally, the presence of a free car park located just 90 seconds away, on a school playground, adds convenience for patrons.

However, despite these positive aspects, the overall disappointment lay in the food. The luxurious interior may impress some, but it only served to accentuate the lack of quality in the dishes. The Banc falls short when it comes to delivering exceptional culinary experiences, and no amount of fancy decor can mask the fact that the food served here is, at best, average.

 

 

Halal Meat from New Zealand

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New Zealand is a major exporter of halal meat to Muslim countries around the world, including the United Arab Emirates, Malaysia, and many more. With a large consumer base in these countries, New Zealand has become a leading supplier of halal meat, with a significant portion of its slaughtering houses exclusively exporting halal products.

New Zealand has strict regulations when it comes to the production and export of halal meat. The country’s Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI) is responsible for ensuring that all halal meat products meet the strict standards set by the Islamic community. This includes certification by recognized halal certification bodies such as the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand (FIANZ).

The process of halal certification is rigorous, and involves an assessment of the entire supply chain from the point of slaughter to the final product. This ensures that the entire process is carried out in accordance with Islamic dietary laws and that the meat is free from any prohibited substances or contaminants. As a result, New Zealand’s halal meat products are highly regarded by Muslim consumers around the world.

New Zealand’s halal meat industry is also committed to sustainability and animal welfare. The country’s farmers take pride in their ability to raise healthy and happy animals, and this is reflected in the high quality of their meat products. In addition, New Zealand’s halal meat industry is actively working to reduce its environmental footprint, with a focus on sustainable farming practices and reducing carbon emissions.

New Zealand’s halal meat industry is an important contributor to the country’s agricultural sector and a major supplier of halal meat products to Muslim countries around the world. With a strong commitment to quality, sustainability, and animal welfare, New Zealand’s halal meat products are highly regarded by consumers worldwide. As the global demand for halal meat continues to grow, New Zealand is well positioned to meet this demand and continue to be a leading exporter of halal meat for years to come.

What is Halal?

> Islamic Method Of Slaughtering

Islamic law requires that animals intended for human consumption be slain in a certain manner. Halal slaughter is one of the more humane methods available to the meat industry and the only method acceptable for Muslim consumers. The conditions for Halal slaughter can be summarized as follows:

Customary and Desirable Practices When Slaughtering

Storage, Processing and Transport of Halal Meat

How much new zealand meat is “Halal”, and why?

While there are no official statistics on halal production in New Zealand, nearly all of New Zealand’s red meat export slaughter premises are certified to undertake slaughter in compliance with halal requirements. This gives the New Zealand red meat industry the flexibility to export different cuts from a single carcass to the best-returning markets. The industry currently serves some 120 markets worldwide.

Who decides if new zealand meat is labelled “Halal”?

There are two main reasons for New Zealand companies to obtain halal certification and labelling of meat before it is exported:

  1. the importing country (typically in the Middle East and South East Asia) requires it as a compulsory market access condition, or
  2. the end-customer requests it for their own commercial reasons.

In countries where halal certification and labelling is not a compulsory requirement, the decision is often the retailer’s, as New Zealand meat is often not exported in ‘retail-ready’ form. The final packaging is generally done by the retailer in the market. Whatever the labelling of New Zealand lamb or beef, consumers can be assured that the animal will have been stunned before slaughter and die without pain.

Who says it’s halal?

New Zealand has the Federation of Islamic Associations of New Zealand Inc. (FIANZ) which ensures that all meat exports from New Zealand accompanied with a Halal Certificate issued by the Federation, to any part of the world, are guaranteed Halal.

The Federation is the sole certifier for the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the State of Kuwait. Large quantities of meat certified Halal by the Federation is also exported to other countries in the Middle East, the United Kingdom, Europe, North America, South Africa and Asia.

Who performs the halal Slaughter?

New Zealand has developed regulatory standards for Halal meat production. These standards are administered Ministry for Primary Industries (MPI), which is the Government regulatory agency that also administers New Zealand’s food safety regulatory framework. All New Zealand processing plants, including those that undertake halal slaughter, have MPI veterinarians on-site who monitor slaughter and processing operations.

The Halal regulatory framework for Halal meat production sets out the standards and requirements for:
• Halal auditing and certification agencies (Approved Halal Organisations)
• Halal Slaughtermen
• Halal systems at processing plants

Approved Halal Organisations (AHOs) that undertake halal auditing and certification must be approved by MPI, and their auditing and certification staff must meet a number of competency requirements including NZQA unit standards.

Anyone who undertakes halal slaughter (halal slaughterman) must also meet a number of competency requirements including NZQA unit standards that cover knowledge of Shariah Law; knowledge of stock recovery; knife handling and sharpening skills; hygiene and food safety and work safety.

Plants that undertake halal slaughter must be listed by MPI and operate under halal programmes that set out how the plant will undertake halal processing. The plants must ensure that the halal programmes are consistent with all other regulatory requirements, including those covering food safety and animal welfare. Halal programmes must approved by an AHO and must be registered with MPI.

I had a look at a few slaughterhouses in NZ, and all of them have Halal slaughtermen employed, all MUST be practising Muslims with knowledge of halal procedures. An Example of an Ad is below.

What are the animal welfare requirements for animal slaughter in new zealand?

It is compulsory for all animals to be stunned before commercial slaughter in New Zealand. Stunning ensures an immediate loss of consciousness to prevent animals from feeling any pain during the slaughter process. The requirement for animals to be stunned prior to slaughter is contained in the Animal Welfare (Commercial Slaughter) Code of Welfare 2018, which is available on the Ministry for Primary Industries website.

In New Zealand there is no exemption to the requirement for pre-slaughter stunning, unlike in some other countries. Halal slaughter requires that the animal dies from the “halal cut” to the throat, i.e. that the pre-slaughter stun is not powerful enough to kill the animal. In premises that undertake halal slaughter in New Zealand, reversible electrical stunning is used to ensure that animals are rendered unconscious instantaneously and remain unconscious at the time of slaughter, thus complying with both animal welfare and halal requirements.

Sources:
https://halalcertification.ie/islamic-method-of-slaughtering/
https://www.mia.co.nz/what-we-do/trade/halal/
https://newshahimpex.ca/halal-new-zealand-meat/

How to check if a product is Halal from New Zealand?

In order to check if a supermarket lamb product is halal, you need to look for 2 things, the first is a ID code, for example, MEXX, you also want to make sure the item is vacuum packed as there is no chance of any doubt with contamination with non halal items.

Here we see the code ME26, using the table below (which shows A list of New Zealand-approved products that are halal) search for ME26, it shows Silver Fern Farms Limited.

If we search for Silver Fern Farms Limited, we find on their website the following in their FAQ.

Here are some more examples

ME188 leads us to CMP RANGITIKEI LIMITED, which trades as ANZCO FOODS RANGITIKEI. Who have a halal certificate on their website.

ME39 leads to AFFCO New Zealand Limited who have a halal sign on their website.

A list of New Zealand-approved animal products halal premises

Identifier/CodeCompany NameAddressTypeSpeciesApproved Halal Organisation
170Bakels Edible Oils (NZ) Limited5 Hutton Place, Mount MaunganuiProcessBeefNZIDT
BC01Bay Cuisine Limited70 Dunlop Road, Onekawa, NapierProcessBeef, Deer, Poultry, SheepNZIDT
BOSTOCK1Bostock Brothers Limited30B James Rochfort Place, HastingsSlaughter, ProcessPoultryHCS
BPW41Silver Fern Farms Limited - Hawera By-ProductsTawhiti Road, HaweraProcessBeefNZIDT
CANBIL777Canterbury Biltong Limited59 Kennaway Road, Woolston, ChristchurchProcessBeefNZIDT
DSP12Progressive Meats Limited118 Kelfield Place, HastingsSlaughterBeef, Deer, Goat, SheepNZIDT
HS15Graeme Lowe Tannery Limited trading as Graeme Lowe Hastings501 Coventry Road, HastingsProcessBeefNZIDT
HS157The Tasman Tanning Company Limited325 Heads Road, WanganuiProcessBeefNZIDT
IKANA888Ikana New Zealand Limited1 Brixton Street, Islington, Christchurch 8042ProcessBeef,Poultry, SheepFIANZ
MCS1CSI Foods Trading Limited t/a Greenmount Foods12 Jean Batten Drive, Mount MaunganuiProcessBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME100Silver Fern Farms Limited - WaitoaWood Road, WaitoaSlaughterBeef, Young calvesNZIDT
ME102Silver Fern Farms Limited - WaitotaraWaiinu Beach Road, WaitotaraSlaughterGoat, SheepNZIDT
ME103Auckland Meat Processors Limited851 Great South Road, Otahuhu, AucklandSlaughter, ProcessBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesFIANZ
ME104Te Kuiti Meat Processors Limited85 Ahuroa Road, RD 2, Te KuitiSlaughterGoat, Sheep, Young calvesFIANZ, NZIDT
ME112Silver Fern Farms Limited - WaitaneSaleyard Road, GoreSlaughterBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME118Crusader Meats New Zealand Limited979 State Highway 30, BenneydaleSlaughterGoat, Sheep, Young calvesFIANZ
ME119Riverlands Manawatu LimitedFerry Road, BullsSlaughterBeefNZIDT
ME124Greenlea Premier Meats LimitedGreenlea Lane, HamiltonSlaughterBeefFIANZ, NZIDT
ME125Silver Fern Farms Limited - DargavilleTuna Street, DargavilleSlaughterBeefNZIDT
ME127UBP LimitedWaitete Road, Te KuitiSlaughterBeefFIANZ
ME128Ovation New Zealand Limited63 Kawakawa Road, FeildingSlaughterGoat, Sheep, Young calvesFIANZ, NZIDT
ME130Ovation New Zealand Limited113 Dunstan Road, RD 1, GisborneSlaughterGoat, SheepFIANZ, NZIDT
ME134Alliance Group LimitedCarlson Street, DannevirkeSlaughterSheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME136Alliance Group LimitedCorner Hokio Beach Road & Hamaria Road, LevinSlaughterBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME137Lean Meats Oamaru Limited7 Redcastle Road, OamaruSlaughter, ProcessBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME15Silver Fern Farms Limited - BelfastFactory Road, BelfastSlaughter, ProcessBeefNZIDT
ME18Alliance Group LimitedWorks Road, Pukeuri Junction, OamaruSlaughterBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME188CMP Rangitikei LimitedState Highway 1, Greatford, RD 1, BullsSlaughterSheepNZIDT
ME21Alliance Group Limited1 McQueen Avenue, MatauraSlaughter, ProcessBeefNZIDT
ME23AFFCO New Zealand LimitedState Highway 1, HorotiuSlaughter, ProcessBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME26Silver Fern Farms Limited - FinegandYorston Road, BalcluthaSlaughterBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME32AFFCO New Zealand LimitedCampbell Road, FeildingSlaughterBeefNZIDT
ME34Silver Fern Farms Limited - PareoraThe Avenue, PareoraSlaughterBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME39AFFCO New Zealand LimitedImlay Place, WanganuiSlaughterSheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME40Alliance Group LimitedMain Road, Stoke, NelsonSlaughterSheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME42AFFCO New Zealand Limited86 Hunter Brown Street, WairoaSlaughterBeef, Goat, SheepNZIDT
ME43Riverlands Eltham LimitedLondon Street, ElthamSlaughterBeef, Young calvesNZIDT
ME47AFFCO New Zealand LimitedMain Road, MoerewaSlaughter, ProcessBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME50Alliance Group LimitedRapid No 205, State Highway 99, UnderwoodSlaughter, ProcessBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME500CMP Rakaia LimitedKnyvetts Road, RD 13, RakaiaSlaughterSheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME52Silver Fern Farms Limited - PacificRangitane Road, Whakatu, HastingsSlaughterBeefNZIDT
ME56AFFCO New Zealand LimitedState Highway 2, Rangiuru, Te PukeSlaughterBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME58Silver Fern Farms Limited - TakapauFraser Road, TakapauSlaughterGoat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME58Silver Fern Farms Limited - TakapauFraser Road, TakapauProcessBeefNZIDT
ME66CMP Kokiri LimitedMain Road, KokiriSlaughterBeef, Young calvesNZIDT
ME70CMP Marlborough LimitedAlabama Road, BlenheimSlaughterBeefNZIDT
ME77Fresh Meats NZ Limited11-15 Mersey Street, NapierSlaughter, ProcessSheepFIANZ
ME78CMP Canterbury LimitedRD 7, Seafield Road, AshburtonSlaughterBeef, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME80Blue Sky Meats (N.Z.) LimitedWaituna School Road, RD 1, Morton Mains, InvercargillSlaughterGoat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
ME82Greenlea Premier Meats LimitedStudholme Street, MorrinsvilleSlaughter, ProcessYoung calvesFIANZ, NZIDT
ME82Greenlea Premier Meats LimitedStudholme Street, MorrinsvilleSlaughterBeefFIANZ, NZIDT
ME84Silver Fern Farms Limited - Te ArohaStanley Road, Te ArohaSlaughter, ProcessBeefNZIDT
ME86Taylor Preston LimitedKiwi Point, Centennial Drive, Ngauranga Gorge, Johnsonville, WellingtonSlaughterBeef, Goat, SheepFIANZ, NZIDT
ME87Progressive Meats Limited118 Kelfield Place, HastingsSlaughterGoat, SheepFIANZ, NZIDT
ME9Silver Fern Farms Limited - HaweraTawhiti Road, HaweraSlaughterBeefNZIDT
NZBC15New Zealand Biltong Company Limited10 Rothwell Street, TimaruProcessBeefNZIDT
NZCC88NZCC LimitedWhakatu Industrial Park, 4 Johnston Way, WhakatuProcessSheepNZIDT
PH134McCallum Industries Limited21-27 Mihini Road, Henderson, Auckland 0612ProcessBeef, SheepFIANZ
PH16Prepared Foods Processing Limited15 Makomako Road, Palmerston NorthProcessBeef, Goat, Poultry, SheepHCS, NZIDT
PH173ANZCO Foods Green Island Limited15 Carnforth Street, Green Island, DunedinProcessBeef, SheepNZIDT
PH30Progressive Meats Limited118 Kelfield Place, HastingsProcessBeef, Deer, Goat, SheepFIANZ, NZIDT
PH31Ovation New Zealand Limited10 Cook Street, WaipukurauProcessSheepNZIDT
PH367Venison Packers Feilding LimitedKawakawa Road, FeildingSlaughter, ProcessDeer, Goat, SheepNZIDT
PH372Alpine Deer NZ LP642 Pyes Pa Road, RD3, TaurangaProcessDeer velvet and antlerNZIDT
PH461Otoki New Zealand Limited76 Rangi Road, Takanini, AucklandProcessBeefNZIDT
PH479Comgroup NZ Limited t/a Franklin Foods13 Adams Drive, PukekoheProcessBeefNZIDT
PH498Kisco Foods International Limited6 Vulcan Place, Middleton, ChristchurchProcessBeef, Young calvesFIANZ
PH500Back Country Foods Limited150 Otepuni Avenue, Invercargill 9812ProcessBeef, SheepFIANZ
PH635ANZCO Foods Waitara Limited1 Stafford Street, WaitaraProcessBeef, Deer, Goat, SheepNZIDT
PH71Progressive Meats Limited118 Kelfield Place, HastingsProcessGoat, SheepFIANZ, NZIDT
PH93Alpine Deer NZ LPRapid 50 Church Road, LuggateProcess, StoreDeer placenta, deer velvetNZIDT
PPH16Tegel Foods Limited112 Carmen Road, Hornby, ChristchurchSlaughter, ProcessPoultryHCS
PPH26Tegel Foods Limited91-95 Paraite Road, Bell Block, New PlymouthSlaughter, ProcessPoultryHCS
PPH36Tegel Foods Limited3-5 Bruce McLaren Road, Henderson, AucklandSlaughter, ProcessPoultryHCS
PPH8Inghams Enterprises (NZ) Pty Limited624 Waihekau Road, RD 1, Waitoa 3380Slaughter, ProcessPoultryFIANZ
SBP1AFFCO New Zealand Limited trading as Renco New Zealand10 London Street, ElthamProcessBeef, Goat, Sheep, Young calvesNZIDT
SPM135South Pacific Meats Limited1044 Two Chain Road, Burnham, RD7, ChristchurchSlaughter, ProcessYoung calvesNZIDT
SPM135South Pacific Meats Limited1044 Two Chain Road, Burnham, RD7, ChristchurchSlaughterBeef, SheepNZIDT
SPM51South Pacific Meats Limited86 Kekeno Place, Awarua, InvercargillSlaughterSheep, Young calvesNZIDT
TBE1Taranaki Bio Extracts Limited57 Kohiti Road, OkaiawaProcessBeef, Deer, SheepNZIDT
TURK475Turks Poultry Farm LimitedPurcell Street West, FoxtonSlaughter, ProcessPoultryFIANZ

Source:
Ministry for Primary Industries https://www.mpi.govt.nz/export/export-requirements/country-listing-requirements-for-animal-products/search-for-country-listings/country-listings-page?List=1

What other benefits are there?

My research into Lamb from New Zealand has revealed that the quality is of a high standard. Of course, in the UK, in particular farms in Wales produce good quality lamb, but the issue is your local halal “butcher” (I say butcher, most have no knowledge or qualifications), can’t tell you any information about the providence of their meat. Believe me, I’ve asked only to be replied back with a blank stare.

Lamb from New Zealand is Free Range, livestock are raised on clean, open pastures. New Zealand’s temperate climate provides optimal health conditions to support free range animals.

Livestock are raised in green pastures eating what is most natural to them – grass. Natural grass, hay or silage is the feed of choice for our cattle and sheep. Livestock are not grain-fed.

Cattle are raised without being fed or dosed with artificial hormones that promote unnatural growth within the animal. This hormone growth promotant free stance gives farmers, staff and customers around the world reassurance that they and their children are not eating hormonally manipulated product. Livestock undergo a minimum stand-down period of 60 days from any antibiotic treatment. Antibiotics are only used in selective cases where the health and well being of the animal necessitates it, and the stand-down period ensures there are no residual traces remaining in the meat.

Source: https://www.affco.co.nz/international-domestic-sales/product-benefits/

But its coming from New Zealand, that’s bad for the planet!

Many farms aim for Net Carbon Zero when producing their products. For the USA market, he total emissions generated by each pound/kilogram of product are independently measured and certified across the whole life of the product, from farm to the consumers plate in the USA, including disposal of the packaging.

More than 95 percent of emissions from Net Carbon Zero beef occur on farm. The transport and packaging are therefore very minor contributors to the overall carbon footprint but are still fully accounted for and offset via removals on the farms the animals were raised.

Source: https://us.silverfernfarms.com/pages/frequently-asked-questions

 

 

Restaurants with prayer spaces for Ramadan and Iftar

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Ramadan is a time of spiritual reflection, self-improvement, and increased devotion and worship for Muslims around the world. It’s a month that encourages people to reconnect with their faith, and for those who may not pray as often as they would like, it’s an opportunity to recharge their iman (faith) and make prayer a part of their daily routine.

For many, breaking the fast at a restaurant that provides a prayer space or has a mosque nearby is an excellent way to ensure that they can perform their prayers on time while enjoying a delicious meal. In this blog post, we’ll look at restaurants that offer a prayer space; making it easier for you to break your fast this Ramadan without compromising your spiritual needs.

Prayer Space on Premises

Balkh
Address: 89-91 Kenton Rd, Harrow HA3 0AN


Eyva Goodmayes
Address: 7-13 Goodmayes Rd, Ilford IG3 9UH


Franzos Ilford
Address: 318 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2LT


Fredos
Address: 823 Romford Rd, London E12 6EA


Halia
Address: 42 Prince’s Square, London W2 4AD


Manjaros
Address: 213-215 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2RZ


Melur
Address: 175A Edgware Rd, Tyburnia, London W2 1ET


Memara Lounge
Address: 2b Hanworth Rd, Lampton, Hounslow TW3 1UA


Pie Factory
Address: 34 Cranbrook Rd, Ilford IG1 4NE


Royal Nawaab
Address: Hoover Building 7, Western Ave, London UB6 8DB

Royal Mahal Tooting
1113-1115 London Rd, London SW16 4XD


Sahara Grill
All locations

Shere Khan
Address: Air Park Way, Feltham TW13 7LX


Spice Khanza
Address: 266-268 High Rd, Ilford IG1 1QF


Swirl Drop
Address: 522 High Rd, Seven Kings, Ilford IG3 8EG


Taste of Lahore Shepherds Bush
Address: 111 Shepherds Bush Rd, London W6 7LP

The Orangery
Address: Golf Club, Stockley Park, Hayes, Uxbridge UB11 1AQ


The Great Chase
Address: 316 St John St, London EC1V 4NT

Restaurants with Masjid close by for Prayers

Karachi Cuisine
1113-1115 London Rd, London SW16 4XD

A complete list of Halal Brunch and Breakfast spots in London

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Are you egg-cited for a breakfast adventure? Time to crack open the possibilities of where to get your brunch on. Whether you’re in the mood for a sunny-side-up experience or want to scramble to a new eatery, London’s brunch scene is egg-ceptional. So let’s get cracking, let’s find the egg-cellent breakfast spots in the city that will make you say “egg-squisite!”

When I first started the journey of food blogging when it came to places that offered Halal Breakfast options like a Full English or an Egg Floratine there were just a handful of limited options, but fast forward to today, and you are spoilt for choice for options for “egg-cellent” quality brunch options.

This blog post will explore the best places to get a halal breakfast or brunch in London. From East to West, North to South, there is no shortage of options for those looking for a delicious meal that is both halal and satisfying. .

Whether you’re a fan of classic breakfast favourites like eggs benedict or crave something a little more adventurous like avocado toast, the city has got you covered. From the heartiest of full English breakfasts to epic French toast and American-style pancakes, the brunch scene in London has something to offer for every taste bud.

I’ve split the list into areas of London. The halal status and levels vary across each restaurant. Some might be fully halal, HMC or offer a separate halal menu.

 

East London

Aura Grill and Bar, Loughton

Blu Ivy, Bethnal Green

Cafe East, Bethnal Green

Cafe RODI, Walthamstow

Chapters, Ilford

Coco, Lakeside

Coffee Garden, Leytonstone

De Cafe Lounge, Upton Park

Fat Cafe, Goodmayes

Grounded Coffee Co., Aldgate

HashTag Cafe, Seven Kings

Moral Cafe, Ilford

No.92 Cafe, Isle of Dogs

Pie Factory, Ilford

Qurkery Cafe, Forest Gate, Shadwell, Walthamstow

The Connaught, Ilford

The Gourmet Hut, Whitechapel

North London

Alicci’s, Wood Green

Clobbers Cafe, Edmonton

Coffee Garden, Enfield

Dobar, Finsbury park

Forks and Green, Tottenham

KOA London, Crouch Hill

Lumi, Camden

Palaette, Hackney *pork in kitchen

Pamban Cafe, Camden

Rabbit Hole Cafe, Holloway

Shakespeare Cafe, Edmonton

Central London

Apple Butter Cafe, Covent Garden

Coco, Tower Bridge

Crome, Bond Street

Drunch, Mayfair / St. John’s Wood

Eggoland, Fitzrovia

Popina, Mayfair

West London

Cloud 7, Edgware 

Dolci Cafe, Earl’s Court

Makan cafe, Portobello Rd

The Terrace by L’Opera, Knightsbridge

South London

Apple Blue Patisserie, Balham

Coffee Addict, Victoria

Coffee Max, Tooting

Heart of Balham, Balham

Places mapped by Wanderlog, a trip planner on iOS and Android

 

Hope you found this list useful, please share this with friends. If you have any suggestions for places that I have missed email me or mention them in the comments below.

 

Halal Restaurants that opened in 2022

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London has always been a melting pot of cultures and cuisines, and this is especially true when it comes to halal food. This year, the city has seen a surge in the number of open halal restaurants, with new establishments popping up all over the city. Theres been a wide range of openings, with a lot of Turkish-style menus, to steakhouses and modern fusion cuisine to traditional Middle Eastern dishes and street food, there is a wide variety of halal options to choose from in London.

In this article, we will be showcasing halal restaurants that opened in London in 2022. With over 50 places to choose from, there is something for everyone, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a luxurious dining experience. These restaurants are not only a testament to the diversity and richness of halal cuisine but also a reflection of London’s vibrant and cosmopolitan food scene. I’ve managed to find over 50 places that opened their doors. So grab your appetite and let’s get started!

The places listed below have different levels of Halal status, some have a full halal menu, or serve some options like chicken. Some may serve alcohol, but all should have some type of halal options available.

This list has been put together myself, with an understanding that they all opened in 2022.

East

East London has seen the largest number of new halal restaurant openings in recent years, particularly in the area of Ilford. This diverse and vibrant neighbourhood has become a hub for halal dining, with a wide variety of cuisines and dining experiences to choose from. Many of these restaurants are family-friendly and offer a welcoming and inclusive atmosphere for all diners. As someone who lives in East London, I may be biased, but I truly believe that this is the best part of the city for foodies.

Asado
Steak
Address: 166 High Road, London E15 1UA


Aura
Turkish, Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 179-181 High Rd, Loughton IG10 4LF


Babel Grill House
Middle Eastern
Address: 40 Brick Ln, London E1 6RF

Beithak Whitechapel
Indian
133 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1DT


Black Lotus
Thai
Address: 597 Cranbrook Rd, Gants Hill, Ilford IG2 6JZ


Burgo Town
Burgers
Address: 951 Romford Rd, London E12 5JR

Central Lounge


Central Lounge
Indian
Address: 271 Green Ln, Ilford IG3 9JR


Chapters
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 833-835 High Rd, Ilford IG3 8TD


Chicos Brick Lane
Burgers
Address: 28 Osborn St, London E1 6TD


Coco Asia Lakeside
Pan Asian
Address: Unit 1A, W Thurrock Way, West Thurrock RM20 2ZN


Dine-Inn
Steak
Address: 576 Cranbrook Rd, Ilford IG2 6RF


Hashtag Cafe
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 701A High Rd, Seven Kings, Ilford IG3 8RH


Junglees
Burgers
Address: 27a High St, Ilford IG6 2AW


Lalas Grill
Indian
Address: 345 Barking Rd, London E6 1LA


Mi Chai
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 125 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2RN


Monster Burger
Burger
Address: 109 New Rd, London E1 1HJ

Mumbai 7


Mumbai 7
Indian
Address: 118 Aldborough Rd. S, Seven Kings, Ilford IG3 8EZ


Nova Parlour
Fusion
Address: 106 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2LD


PHAT Bite
Grill
Address: 102 Chingford Mount Rd, London E4 9AA


Royal Nawaab
Indian
Address: Unit 6 Clements Rd, Ilford IG1 1BP


Smoke&Pepper
Burgers
Address: 434 High Rd Leyton, London E10 6QE


Soukra o2
[Opens mid-December]
Turkish
Address: 2 Waterview Dr, London SE10 0TX

The Cardamon Room


The Cardamon Room
Indian
Address: 17 Cambridge Park, London E11 2PU


The Connaught
Breakfast
Address: 1 Connaught Rd, Ilford IG1 1RL


The Kara
Turkish
Address: Fleming Rd, Chafford Hundred, Grays RM16 6HH


This year has been disappointing for those looking for new halal dining options in Central London, with only three new restaurants opening their doors

Central

Chourangi
Indian
Address: 3 Old Quebec St, London W1H 7AF

Gallio
Mediterranean
Address: Cabot Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QT

Lusin
Armenian
Address: 16 Hay Hill, London W1J 8NY

North

North London has seen a flurry of activity this year in the halal dining scene, with a large number of new restaurants opening their doors.

Alici’s
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 405 Lordship Ln, London N17 6AG

Azura Restaurant & Bar
Mediterranean
Address: 265 Hampstead Rd, London NW1 7QX

Bramleys Restaurant
Mediterranean
Address: 217 Bramley Rd, London N14 4XA

BurgerX
Burgers
Address: 71 Holloway Rd, London N7 8JZ

Flip n Sear
Burgers
Address: 2nd Floor, Hawley Wharf, Water Ln., London NW1 8JZ

Forks and Green
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: Downhills Park Entrance, 338 Philip Ln, London N15 4AB

Hanwoo Village
Korean
Address: 19 St Alban’s Pl, London N1 0NX

Hong Kong Restaurant Islington
Chinese
Address: 301 Upper St, London N1 2TU

JustMeat
BBQ
Address: 194a Eleanor Cross Rd, Waltham Cross EN8 7PW

KOA London
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 1, 473 Hornsey Rd, London N19 3QL

MXO
Mexican Address: 152, 156 N Gower St, London NW1 2LU

No.5 Dining
Turkish
Address: 5 Tottenham Ln, London N8 9DJ

Zero Zero
Italian
Address: 2th Floor, O2 Centre, 255 Finchley Rd, London NW3 6LU

Ya Hela
Middle Eastern
Address: 437 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9DT

West

Th West Side of town saw some new halal restaurants pop up, its a part of London that I venture out to much but there are some nice places below that might be worth the journey.

Band of Burgers Fulham
Burgers
Address: 98 Lillie Rd, London SW6 7SR

Bombay Chow brasserie Indian
Address: Haste Hill Golf Club, The Dr, Northwood HA6 1HN

Chingon
Mexican
Address: 322-324 Uxbridge Rd, Pinner HA5 4HR

Cloud7
Breakfast/Brunch
Address: 7, Handel Parade, Whitchurch Ln, London HA8 6LD

Hangar 22
Fast Food
Address: 22 Devonshire Rd, Chiswick, London W4 2HD

La Fenice
Italian
Address: 48 Stanhope St, London NW1 3EX

Monak
Pan Asian
Address: 63 Abbey Rd, London NW8 0AE

The Orangery by Sapna
Indian
Address: Golf Club, Stockley Park, Hayes, Uxbridge UB11 1AQ

Yoko Sizzlers
Grill
Address: 16 Church Rd, Stanmore HA7 4AR

The Lantern
Middle Eastern
Address: 35 Bond St, London W5 5AS

South

South London may have the fewest number of halal restaurants in the area, but this year it has seen the opening of a truly standout dining option. Meli-melo is a must-visit restaurant for anyone who appreciates delicious food and great ambiance. Despite the limited selection of halal restaurants in the area, Meli-melo stands out as a shining example of what a restaurant should be.

La Moda
Mediterranean
Address: 259 Burlington Rd, New Malden KT3 4NE

Meli-melo
Fusion
Address: 16 Coldharbour Ln, London SE5 9PR

Because I’m a nice guy, here is the whole list in a sortable table for you!

NameCusinePart of LondonAddress
Alici'sBreakfast/BrunchNorth405 Lordship Ln, London N17 6AG
AsadoSteakEastAddress: 166 High Road, London E15 1UA
AuraTurkish,Breakfast/BrunchEastAddress: 179-181 High Rd, Loughton IG10 4LF
Azura Restaurant & BarMediterraneanNorthAddress: 265 Hampstead Rd, London NW1 7QX
Babel Grill HouseMiddle EasternEastAddress: 40 Brick Ln, London E1 6RF
Band of Burgers FulhamBurgersWestAddress: 98 Lillie Rd, London SW6 7SR
Beithak WhitechapelIndianEast133 Whitechapel Rd, London E1 1DT
Black LotusThaiEastAddress: 597 Cranbrook Rd, Gants Hill, Ilford IG2 6JZ
Bombay Chow brasserieIndianWestAddress: Haste Hill Golf Club, The Dr, Northwood HA6 1HN
Bramleys RestaurantMediterraneanNorthAddress: 217 Bramley Rd, London N14 4XA
BurgerXBurgersNorthAddress: 71 Holloway Rd, London N7 8JZ
Burgo TownBurgersEastAddress: 951 Romford Rd, London E12 5JR
Central LoungeIndianEastAddress: 271 Green Ln, Ilford IG3 9JR
ChaptersBreakfast/BrunchEastAddress: 833-835 High Rd, Ilford IG3 8TD
Chicos Brick LaneBurgersEastAddress: 28 Osborn St, London E1 6TD
ChingonindianWestAddress: 322-324 Uxbridge Rd, Pinner HA5 4HR
ChourangiIndianCentralAddress: 3 Old Quebec St, London W1H 7AF
Cloud7Breakfast/BrunchWestAddress: 7, Handel Parade, Whitchurch Ln, London HA8 6LD
Coco Asia LakesidePan AsianEastAddress: Unit 1A, W Thurrock Way, West Thurrock, West Thurrock,Thurrock Thiar RM20 2ZN
Dine-InnSteakEastAddress: 576 Cranbrook Rd, Ilford IG2 6RF
Flip n SearBurgersNorthAddress: 2nd Floor, Hawley Wharf, Water Ln., London NW1 8JZ
Forks and GreenBreakfast/BrunchNorthAddress: Downhills Park Entrance, 338 Philip Ln, London N15 4AB
GallioMediterraneanCentralAddress: Cabot Place, Canary Wharf, London E14 4QT
Hangar 22Fast FoodWestAddress: 22 Devonshire Rd, Chiswick, London W4 2HD
Hashtag CafeBreakfast/BrunchEastAddress: 701A High Rd, Seven Kings, Ilford IG3 8RH
Hong Kong Restaurant IslingtonChineseNorthAddress: 301 Upper St, London N1 2TU
JungleesBurgersEastAddress: 27a High St, Ilford IG6 2AW
JustMeatBBQNorthAddress: 194a Eleanor Cross Rd, Waltham Cross EN8 7PW
KOA LondonBreakfast/BrunchNorthAddress: 1, 473 Hornsey Rd, London N19 3QL
La FeniceItalianWestAddress: 48 Stanhope St, London NW1 3EX
La ModaMediterraneanSouthAddress: 259 Burlington Rd, New Malden KT3 4NE
Lalas GrillIndianEastAddress: 345 Barking Rd, London E6 1LA
LusinArmenianCentralAddress: 16 Hay Hill, London W1J 8NY
Meli-meloFusionSouthAddress: 16 Coldharbour Ln, London SE5 9PR
Mi ChaiBreakfast/BrunchEastAddress: 125 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2RN
MonakPan AsianWestAddress: 63 Abbey Rd, London NW8 0AE
Monster BurgerBurgerEastAddress: 109 New Rd, London E1 1HJ
Mumbai 7IndianEastAddress: 118 Aldborough Rd. S, Seven Kings, Ilford IG3 8EZ
MXOMexicanNorthAddress: 152, 156 N Gower St, London NW1 2LU
No.5 DiningTurkishNorthAddress: 5 Tottenham Ln, London N8 9DJ
Nova ParlourFussionEastAddress: 106 Ilford Ln, Ilford IG1 2LD
PHAT BiteGrillEastAddress: 102 Chingford Mount Rd, London E4 9AA
Royal NawaabIndianEastAddress: Unit 6 Clements Rd, Ilford IG1 1BP
Smoke&PepperBurgersEastAddress: 434 High Rd Leyton, London E10 6QE
Soukra o2TurkishEastAddress: 2 Waterview Dr, London SE10 0TX
The Caradomdon RoomIndianEastAddress: 17 Cambridge Park, London E11 2PU
The ConnaughtBreakfastEastAddress: 1 Connaught Rd, Ilford IG1 1RL
The KaraTurkishEastAddress: Fleming Rd, Chafford Hundred, Grays RM16 6HH
The Orangery by SapnaIndianWestAddress: Golf Club, Stockley Park, Hayes, Uxbridge UB11 1AQ
Yoko SizzlersGrillWestAddress: 16 Church Rd, Stanmore HA7 4AR
Zero ZeroitalianNorthAddress: 2th Floor, O2 Centre, 255 Finchley Rd, London NW3 6LU
The LanternMiddle EasternWestAddress: 35 Bond St, London W5 5AS
Ya HelaMiddle EasternNorthAddress: 437 Kingsbury Rd, London NW9 9DT

No.5 Dining

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I checked out No.5 a lovely Turkish-inspired restaurant and lounge in North London.

The decor is very Instagram-friendly and has a great vibe – I’m not a fan of all that jazz so decided to go on a quiet Monday evening and took my bestie out for his birthday.

What We ordered

TRUFFLE CROQUETTES £10.50
SCALLOPS £13.50
OCTOPUS £11.50
FILLET STEAK 270G £42
LAMB SHOULDER £25.50
MAC ‘N’ CHEESE £6.50
Virgin PINA COLADA
Virgin MOJITO
CHOCOLATE BOWL £12

The starters I had were all excellent.

My favourite dish was the Crispy truffle croquettes – filled with truffle, mushrooms, onions and bechamel sauce, coated in a crispy and light bread crumb roll – this was so good i ordered it twice – A MUST ORDER

The scallops were very good as to the octopus which had a delicious charred taste. (note octopus might not be permissible under certain schools of Islamic thought)

I got the fillet steak, it was cooked more towards medium than the requested medium rare, it didn’t have a deep flavour profile, I’ve definitely had better. I think the Kitchen rested it for too long, by the time it got to me the temperature wasn’t hot. It was also served with Macadamia paste, beetroot purée and quinoa which really was a strange combination that didn’t work, but it did come with chips.

My mate got the lamb shoulder, 14 hour of slow-cooked lamb moulded in 2 discs on the plate served on carrot puree, I found it just okay, I expected a richer level of flavours.

For desserts, we moved to the stylish lounge area, where we shared a Chocolate bowl a fun dessert that’s dropped onto the table; inside the bowl, you’ll find loads of sweet treats like brownies, ice cream, macaroons, strawberries and toffee cake served with warm white chocolate poured on top. I found it too sweet for me, 2 of us couldn’t finish it.

This spot would be ideal for a special occasion, girl’s night out or date night with live entertainment from Friday to Sunday. The starters were fantastic but the mains I had were a little average. The drinks were very balanced and well made.

My meal was complimentary. Thoughts my own

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