Halal is the Arabic term meaning "permissible" or "lawful". In the context of food, it refers to what is allowed for consumption according to Islamic jurisprudence and ethics.

For meat to be considered halal, it must meet the following criteria:

• The animal must be healthy at the time of slaughter, with no pre-existing diseases or defects that would render the meat unhealthy or impure. The animal must also be from a permissible species.
• The slaughter must be performed by a Muslim who is of sound mind and has reached an age of maturity. The person conducting the slaughter must also be well-versed in the correct Islamic method of slaughter.
• The name of Allah (God) must be invoked at the time of slaughter. This act is often accompanied by the phrase “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar,” which means “In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest.”
• The method of slaughter involves a swift cut to the throat to ensure a quick and humane death.
• The blood must be completely drained from the body, as consuming blood is strictly prohibited in Islam.

It is important to note that halal food extends beyond just meat; it encompasses a wide range of food and beverages, including grains, fruits, vegetables, and processed products.

Zabihah is defined as "slaughtered" in Arabic. It refers to meat that is slaughtered according to the traditional Islamic method.

This typically includes:

• Each animal is slaughtered individually by hand, rather than by automated or machine processes.
• The name of Allah is recited at the time of each individual slaughter.
• The process follows the classical Islamic guidelines for proper slaughter.

The term "Zabihah Halal" is commonly used to indicate a more strict and controlled standard, particularly distinguishing it from halal meat that may be produced through large-scale or machine-based methods.

For this guide:

"Fully Halal" defines that the restaurant states that all meat served is halal.
"Partially Halal" defines that only CERTAIN meats or menu items are halal. These restaurants may also serve non-halal meat items.

Restaurants are listed based on available information online, direct restaurant claims, and community submissions. Information may change over time so it's always best to check yourself as well. If you come across a restaurant changing in status but it has not been updated on this website, feel free to fill out a suggestion form or email.

Considerations highlight things such as whether a restaurant serves alcohol, is a BYOB restaurant, serves non-halal items alongside their halal items such as pork, or is Zabihah Halal.

"Check current certificate" means to visit their website or call them to inquire regarding their current Halal certificate, as it may have been renewed again or revoked. This is for restaurants that frequently have changes in their Halal status.

The guide is updated whenever new restaurants are added, existing listings are revised, or community suggestions are reviewed.

Click on the suggest icon in the header bar to be guided to the suggestion page.

Yes. Halal status, menu offerings, and policies can change, so it is always best to confirm directly with the restaurant as well.