Top 13 Halal Restaurants in Calgary You Need to Try Today

Finding good halal food in Calgary can be easy if you know where to look. The city has many restaurants that serve tasty dishes following halal guidelines. Whether you want traditional meals or something with a modern twist, there are options for everyone.

I want to share a list of the best 13 halal restaurants in Calgary to help you find places with great food and reliable halal standards. This guide is based on local favorites and trusted reviews, so you can trust that the restaurants offer quality meals.

I visited Marhaba Restaurant and found it to be a simple, no frills place that focuses on Middle Eastern and South Asian dishes. The menu features popular items like chicken biryani, lamb mandi, and chicken shawarma. The food is well cooked, with flavors that feel authentic and balanced.

The restaurant has a relaxed vibe, making it easy to enjoy a meal without any rush. I liked the generous portion sizes and the mix of spices that are not too overpowering. The butter chicken was creamy and tasty, while the lamb mandi was tender and seasoned just right.

Service was friendly and helpful. The staff seemed to care about delivering a good experience. I noticed many customers coming back, which says a lot about the quality and consistency of the food.

If you enjoy dishes like biryani or kabsa, this place is worth trying. The prices are reasonable, and the daily specials, like the goat biryani on Wednesdays, offer some variety.

Rating: 4.7 (1128 reviews)
Location: 55 Westwinds Crescent NE #323, Calgary
Contact: (403) 475-2202
Website: Visit Website

I stopped by Kolachi BBQ & Grill located inside a busy strip mall. The place is simple with a counter serve setup. It felt casual and straightforward, perfect if you want a quick meal without any fuss.

The menu focuses on Pakistani style grilled meats and fish. I tried their bun kebab, which came with a spicy veg patty, fried egg, onions, coleslaw, and a tangy chutney. The flavors were well balanced and fresh, making it clear they use good ingredients.

The staff was friendly and efficient, which made the visit smooth. The restaurant carries halal dishes, so it’s a reliable option if you follow that diet. I found it to be a solid choice for anyone craving authentic Pakistani food in Calgary.

Rating: 4.6 (2341 reviews)
Location: 4250 109 Ave NE Unit 4135, Calgary, AB T3N 1Z3
Contact: (403) 744-5331
Website: Visit Website

When I visited Chillies, I was impressed by the variety of Pakistani dishes they offer. The menu includes popular street foods and special items like Haleem and Nihari. Each dish had a strong, authentic flavor that felt true to the cuisine.

The atmosphere was casual and welcoming, perfect for a quick meal or a relaxed dinner. The staff was friendly and seemed knowledgeable about the menu, which helped me decide what to try. I also noticed a good range of appetizers and salads, which added nice options beyond the main courses.

The restaurant is located on 17 Ave SE in Calgary. It has a clean and simple setup, focusing mostly on the food itself. Prices felt reasonable for the portion sizes and quality I experienced.

Rating: 4.3 (719 reviews)
Location: 5020 17 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2A 0V6
Contact: (403) 454-7200
Website: Visit Website

I recently visited Jerusalem Shawarma Downtown and found it to be a solid choice for halal food in Calgary. The place offers a simple, no frills environment that focuses on serving fresh shawarma and other Mediterranean dishes. The menu has over 50 options, so there is something for everyone.

The food was flavorful and made with fresh ingredients. I tried their classic shawarma wrap, which came with well-seasoned meat and fresh veggies. The portions were generous and filling. It’s clear they put effort into keeping quality consistent.

They also offer catering for business events and social gatherings. I thought this was a nice touch if you’re planning a larger meal or meeting. Plus, ordering online for pickup or delivery is easy and convenient.

If you want a straightforward halal shawarma spot with many meal options, this place is worth checking out.

Rating: 4.5 (2713 reviews)
Location: 923 17 Ave SW, Calgary, AB T2T 5R6
Contact: (403) 475-4897
Website: Visit Website

I stopped by Apna Karachi Kitchen and found it to be a solid choice for anyone craving Halal Pakistani and Indian dishes. The menu offers a wide variety, from spicy kebabs to flavorful curries, and everything was cooked just right. The spices were balanced well without being overwhelming.

The place feels welcoming, and the staff was friendly. I noticed they also offer catering services, which is great if you want to bring these flavors to your own events. The takeaway option makes it easy to enjoy their food on the go or at home.

The restaurant is located in a shopping complex, making parking convenient. Their focus on fresh ingredients comes through in their dishes, especially in the tender meats and fragrant rice. It’s clear they put care into both taste and presentation.

Rating: 4.8 (512 reviews)
Location: 76 Westwinds Crescent NE #2140, Calgary, AB T3J 2E7
Contact: (403) 633-3111
Website: Visit Website

I visited Karahi Boys and found the place to have a relaxed atmosphere with an emphasis on traditional Pakistani flavors. The food is served fresh, and they use a style of cooking in a karahi, which is a wok like pan. This keeps the dishes warm and adds to the authentic experience.

Their menu offers a good variety of halal options, including chicken, beef, and paneer prepared with spices common to Pakistani cuisine. I tried the Murgh Makhani (Butter Chicken) and found it creamy and well seasoned. The shrimp karahi also stood out for its bold flavors.

The restaurant focuses on family dining, making it a good spot for groups. They also have multiple locations in Canada and even one in the USA, showing their growing presence. The fresh naan served alongside the main dishes complements the meal well.

Overall, Karahi Boys delivers reliable and authentic Pakistani halal meals with a clear focus on traditional recipes and quality ingredients.

Rating: 4.1 (1640 reviews)
Location: 5455 Falsbridge Dr, Calgary, AB
Contact: (403) 879-2625
Website: Visit Website

I stopped by Lahori Grill Taste of Lahore and found it to be a solid choice for Pakistani food in Calgary. The flavors were authentic and the portions generous. The spices were well balanced, not too overpowering.

The restaurant feels casual and welcoming. It’s a good spot if you want a quick meal that still has some traditional taste. The staff was friendly and the food came out fairly fast.

I tried their grilled dishes and some classic curry. Both were tasty and fresh. The price is reasonable for the quality you get. It’s clear they focus on delivering a true Lahori taste.

If you like bold but clean flavors, this place might work well. It’s located in a shopping area that’s easy to find. I would go back to try more of the menu.

Rating: 4.6 (270 reviews)
Location: 76 Westwinds Crescent NE #1115, Calgary, AB T3J 5H2
Contact: (403) 930-3838

When I visited Hyderabad House in Calgary NW, I found a warm and inviting space. The aroma of spices hit me as soon as I walked in, setting the stage for an authentic Indian meal. The staff was friendly and ready to explain the menu, which helped me decide on some traditional dishes.

I tried the Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani, and it was well worth it. The rice and chicken were cooked together slowly, with a hint of saffron and mint that made every bite flavorful. The spices were strong but balanced, showing the care they put into the cooking.

The Butter Chicken and Beef Nihari were also standout choices. The Butter Chicken was creamy and spiced just right, while the Beef Nihari had tender meat with a rich, spicy gravy. The flavors felt genuine and deep, like you’d get from a home cooked meal in India.

The restaurant focuses on traditional recipes from Hyderabad, using slow cooking methods and fresh spices. It’s clear they want to give guests a true taste of Indian food with a halal menu. I’d recommend it to anyone looking to enjoy bold, authentic flavors in Calgary.

Rating: 4.7 (620 reviews)
Location: 12 Royal Vista Way NW #2122, Calgary, AB T3R 0K4
Contact: (587) 453-4445
Website: Visit Website

When I visited Hyderabad House Canada, I was drawn to the warm and inviting atmosphere. The restaurant offers a strong focus on authentic Indian and Hyderabadi flavors. The dishes are carefully prepared, showing clear respect for tradition and spices.

I tried the Hyderabadi Chicken Dum Biryani, which was slow cooked and full of rich flavor. The use of saffron and mint made the dish stand out without being overwhelming. The Butter Chicken was creamy and well spiced, maintaining a good balance that did not overpower the chicken.

The menu also includes other popular choices like Beef Nihari and a BBQ Platter with grilled kabobs and paneer. Each dish reflects a blend of innovation and tradition that makes dining here a straightforward and enjoyable experience.

The staff was attentive and helped explain the dishes when I asked. The place is good for a casual meal with friends or family when you want real Indian taste in Calgary without fuss.

Rating: 4.3 (1046 reviews)
Location: 5120 47 St NE Unit 105, Calgary, AB T3J 4N4
Contact: (403) 453-2000
Website: Visit Website

I stopped by Khan Baba Restaurant in northeast Calgary and was impressed by the smell of spices right when I walked in. The place has a warm, welcoming feel, and it reminded me of the flavors you find in real Pakistani street food. The menu offers a mix of dishes like fried chicken and pizza, but with a halal twist.

The food here is fresh and full of flavor. Every dish has a good balance of spices that made it clear they use generational recipes. I especially liked how each bite felt authentic without being too heavy on any one spice.

It’s a good spot if you want something to take out or eat fast. The staff was friendly and helpful, making the experience smooth. If you like halal food with a variety of choices, Khan Baba is worth checking out.

Rating: 4.6 (552 reviews)
Location: 9036 46 St NE Unit 102, Calgary, AB T3J 2E3
Contact: (403) 455-9272
Website: Visit Website

I stopped by Donair Choices Cafe Halal and found it to be a cozy spot with a strong focus on halal dishes. The menu is simple but offers a good variety of fresh donairs and other Middle Eastern foods. The flavors are well balanced and the portions are satisfying.

The service was friendly and efficient, making the experience smooth from ordering to eating. The location is easy to find, and there’s a comfortable vibe that makes it a good place for a quick meal or takeout.

I also liked that they keep things straightforward. The cafe feels like a local favorite rather than a fancy restaurant, which fits well if you want a casual, tasty halal meal.

Rating: 4.6 (420 reviews)
Location: 8120 Beddington Blvd NW, Calgary, AB T3K 2A8
Contact: (587) 538-7301
Website: Visit Website

I recently stopped by Daawat Restaurant and found it to be a solid choice for halal Pakistani food in Calgary. The atmosphere was casual and welcoming, making it good for both quick meals and relaxed dinners.

The menu offered a variety of traditional dishes with well balanced spices. I noticed the flavors were genuine, and the portions were generous, which is great for the price. The staff were polite and attentive without being intrusive.

The location is easy to access in the Westwinds area. Parking is straightforward, and the setting is quiet compared to busier parts of the city. It’s a convenient option if you’re in the northeast Calgary area and want something familiar and reliable.

Rating: 4.1 (469 reviews)
Location: 4825 Westwinds Dr NE #9, Calgary, AB T3J 4L4
Contact: (403) 923-4500
Website: Visit Website

I visited Spiced Route Shawarma, a cozy Middle Eastern spot in Calgary. The place has a simple, welcoming vibe, great for quick meals or takeout. The first thing I noticed was the fresh smell of spices and grilled meats.

The shawarma here is well seasoned and tender. They offer a range of traditional dishes that taste authentic without being too heavy. The portion sizes were just right, filling without being overwhelming.

Service was friendly and efficient, which made the experience smooth. It felt like the kind of place locals would visit often for a solid meal. The prices are reasonable for the quality and taste you get.

The location is easy to find in the southeast part of Calgary. Parking was convenient, which is a plus if you’re driving. Overall, I would go back for a quick, tasty Middle Eastern bite.

Rating: 4.7 (997 reviews)
Location: 5147 20 Ave SE, Calgary, AB T2B 0B1
Contact: (403) 474-5489
Website: Visit Website

To identify a halal restaurant, several specific rules about food sourcing and preparation must be followed. These rules make sure the food meets Islamic dietary laws and is safe for those who observe halal practices.

Halal Certification Standards

Halal certification means a trusted authority has checked that the restaurant follows Islamic rules. This includes inspecting the sources of meat, the kitchen processes, and cross-contamination controls. Certified places often display a halal certificate or logo.

Certification bodies look for:

• Meat slaughtered according to Islamic law, called “Zabiha.”
• No pork products or alcohol to be used anywhere in the kitchen.
• Separate storage and utensils for halal and non-halal foods.

Without certification, customers should ask questions or check reviews to confirm halal status. This helps avoid accidental consumption of non-halal items.

Common Ingredients and Preparation Methods

Halal food excludes pork and any meat from animals not properly slaughtered. Alcohol and its derivatives are also banned. Common meats used include chicken, beef, goat, and lamb, all prepared carefully to avoid contamination.

Cooking tools and surfaces must be cleaned thoroughly if used for haram food. Ingredients like gelatin or certain additives may not be halal unless clearly stated. Halal restaurants usually avoid these or use alternatives.

Typical halal dishes use fresh herbs, spices, rice, vegetables, and halal certified meats. This keeps meals both flavorful and compliant with dietary laws.