Best 15 Halal Restaurants in Toronto, Ontario

Best 15 Halal Restaurants in Toronto

Toronto has a rich food scene with many options for halal dining. Whether you want casual meals or something more upscale, the city offers a wide range of choices that follow halal dietary rules.

I put together a list of the top best 15 halal restaurants in Toronto to help you find great places to eat. This guide highlights spots with good food, quality service, and a variety of cuisines that meet halal standards.

1) Karahi Boys

v2 tnycl o32rk

I recently visited Karahi Boys on Queen Street West. The place has a warm, casual vibe that makes it easy to enjoy a meal with friends or family. Their menu focuses on Pakistani dishes, especially their signature karahi meals served fresh in the traditional wok.

The chicken karahi I ordered was well-cooked with rich spices, and the naan bread was soft and fresh. They use halal ingredients, which is important to me. I also noticed some new items like shrimp karahi and butter chicken, which sounded worth trying next time.

This spot feels like a good pick for anyone wanting authentic Pakistani flavors in Toronto. The staff were friendly and the food came out quickly. I liked that the menu offers variety, with choices for those who prefer beef, chicken, or paneer.

Rating: 4.8 (15794 reviews)
Location: 741 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
Contact: (905) 798-9099
Website: Visit Website

2) Shah’s Halal Food

v2 tnycv 1y0sd

I recently visited Shah’s Halal Food at Duncan Street in Toronto. The place has a casual vibe and stays open late, which is perfect if you want a good meal after hours. The menu offers a variety of halal dishes made with fresh local ingredients, and the flavors felt authentic without being too spicy or overwhelming.

The staff was friendly and ready to help with recommendations. I noticed they also do catering for events like weddings and birthday parties, which shows how trusted they are for quality halal food beyond just the restaurant.

The portion sizes were generous, and I appreciated how they balanced traditional recipes with a touch of modern taste. The late night hours on weekends make it a great spot if you need a reliable meal after a long night out.

Rating: 4.3 (650 reviews)
Location: 65 Duncan St, Toronto, ON M5V 2C5
Contact: (647) 865-4368
Website: Visit Website

3) Lebanese Garden

v2 tnyd9

I visited Lebanese Garden and found it to be a friendly spot with colorful decor that matches the fresh and vibrant food. The menu offers a good mix of Mediterranean dishes, including wraps, salads, and platters. It’s clear they prepare everything with care, using fresh ingredients.

What stood out to me was the range of options for different diets. They offer halal, vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices, so most people can find something to enjoy. Their falafel wrap was light and flavorful, with crispy falafel balls made in-house.

The place has a casual vibe, good for both dine-in and takeout. I also noticed their catering services, which seem popular with nearby universities and local events. The prices are reasonable for the quality and portion sizes they provide.

Service was efficient, and the staff seemed experienced. I appreciated the focus on healthy, nutritious meals that don’t compromise on taste.

Rating: 4.8 (1488 reviews)
Location: 366 College St, Toronto, ON M5T 1S6
Contact: (416) 551-1553
Website: Visit Website

4) NAAN KABOB

v2 tnydj ry9tv

I recently visited Naan Kabob, an Afghan restaurant known for its authentic halal dishes. The space feels open, with high ceilings that add to the calm atmosphere. The menu offers a mix of Afghan and Middle Eastern flavors, which made it easy to find something that fit my taste.

I started with the lentil soup and enjoyed the rich flavor paired with crispy pita chips. The garlic naan was fresh and soft, perfect to scoop up the sauces. I ordered the Qabli lamb shank, which was tender and well-seasoned, served with rice and chana masala on the side.

The grilled kabob plates stood out for their variety and careful seasoning. I liked the Chicken Kofta and the beef tikka, both juicy and flavorful. Portions are generous, and some dishes come with rice, salad, and grilled tomatoes, which made the meal feel complete.

The staff was attentive, and the overall experience was relaxed but efficient. It’s a good spot if you want halal Afghan food with a casual vibe in Toronto.

Rating: 4.4 (4181 reviews)
Location: 691 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M4Y 2B2
Contact: (416) 972-6623
Website: Visit Website

5) The Halal Guys

v2 tnydu zrpju

I recently stopped by The Halal Guys on Yonge Street and found it to be a busy spot with a casual setup. The place focuses on simple, honest food like chicken platters, beef gyros, and falafel. The menu is straightforward, and the portions are generous.

I ordered the chicken platter and was pleased with how well seasoned and tender the meat was. The falafel was crispy on the outside and soft inside. The space is not fancy, but clean and functional, perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.

They keep their kitchen open late, which is great if you want a late night meal anywhere from gyros to salads. The place gives off a friendly vibe with quick service, making it a solid option for anyone craving halal food in Toronto.

Rating: 4.1 (3427 reviews)
Location: 563 Yonge St, Toronto, ON
Contact: (416) 901-1011
Website: Visit Website

6) Kabul Express

v2 tnye2 zd4cl

I visited Kabul Express and found it to be a solid spot for Afghan and Pakistani flavors. The place has a clean, simple vibe, and the focus is clearly on the food. They offer traditional Afghan dishes and freshly baked bread from their oven, which adds a nice touch to the meal.

The menu is easy to navigate, with plenty of options for anyone looking for halal dining. Portions were generous, and the spices felt balanced, not too heavy or too mild. It’s good for both dine-in and takeout, and I noticed they also offer delivery.

The restaurant stays open late, even on weekends, which is great if you want a meal after regular dinner hours. It felt comfortable to eat in, and the staff was helpful without being intrusive.

If you need to plan a party or event, they do catering, which could be convenient. I appreciated how they keep things straightforward and focused on authentic taste without unnecessary extras.

Rating: 4.3 (2277 reviews)
Location: 126 Dundas St E, Toronto
Contact: (647) 351-1111
Website: Visit Website

7) The Halal Stop

v2 tnyec bud6s

When I visited The Halal Stop, I found it to be a solid choice for halal burgers and casual eats. The place has a straightforward menu focusing on beef and chicken options with fresh toppings. I liked how they offer both 6oz and 12oz sizes for most burgers, giving you control over portion size and price.

The Sassy Burger and Meet and Greet stood out to me, with good flavor from their house special sauce and quality ingredients. Their chicken options like Monster Chicken and Smokin Buffalo offer variety if you prefer poultry. I appreciated the option for fries topped with steak or chicken, which made for a filling meal.

The atmosphere is casual, and the staff were friendly and efficient when I went. The prices are reasonable given the quality, and you can make combos with wings or tenders for more variety. It’s easy to see why this spot gets positive reviews for halal comfort food in Toronto.

Rating: 4.7 (339 reviews)
Location: 1733 Eglinton Ave E Unit 5, Toronto, ON M4A 1J8
Contact: (416) 615-0009
Website: Visit Website

8) Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen

v2 tnyeq vap0g

I visited Paramount Middle Eastern Kitchen and found it a lively spot. The place serves Middle Eastern dishes with a clear focus on halal meats. The aroma of barbecued meats filled the air, which made the experience feel authentic.

The house baked pitas and fresh baklava stood out to me. You can tell the desserts are made on-site, giving a fresh and homemade feel. The menu offers Lebanese and Mediterranean options, making it a good choice for family meals.

The decor is simple but welcoming, fitting the busy location on Yonge Street in Toronto. The staff were friendly and efficient, helping to keep the service quick despite the steady crowd.

This restaurant feels like a solid option for anyone wanting genuine Middle Eastern halal food with reasonable prices.

Rating: 4.1 (3019 reviews)
Location: 253 Yonge St, Toronto, ON M5B 1N8
Contact: (416) 366-3600
Website: Visit Website

9) Karahi Boys

v2 tnyf2 63vv3

I visited Karahi Boys to try their take on traditional Pakistani food. The place is known for its halal offerings and for serving karahi dishes, which are cooked and served in a special round wok. The fresh naan served alongside complements the rich and flavorful meats very well.

The menu includes a variety of options like chicken karahi, ground beef, and even paneer, all prepared with attention to detail. The restaurant has a casual but clean atmosphere that makes it easy to enjoy a meal with family or friends.

Though I went to the Scarborough location, I learned that Karahi Boys has several branches across Canada and the USA. Their focus on quality ingredients and authentic tastes is clear from the dish presentation and flavor.

Service was smooth, and the staff seemed well-versed in explaining the dishes. Their emphasis on combining food and family time made the experience feel welcoming and genuine.

Rating: 4.5 (7718 reviews)
Location: 1921 Lawrence Ave E, Scarborough, ON
Contact: (416) 901-8727
Website: Visit Website

10) Habibz Corner

v2 tnyfc 4za4n

I stopped by Habibz Corner and was impressed by how fresh everything tasted. The menu offers a variety of halal options, focusing on chicken wings and Middle Eastern dishes. The food feels made with care, and the flavors are well balanced without being too heavy.

The restaurant has a fast food, casual vibe but doesn’t feel rushed or low quality. The place was clean, and the staff seemed friendly and efficient. It’s a good spot if you want a quick takeout or a casual sit down meal with familiar halal choices.

I tried their chicken wings, and they were crispy with a nice blend of spices. The sides complemented the meal well, making it a satisfying experience. Their prices seemed reasonable for the quality they offer.

The location on Queen Street West is easy to find and perfect if you’re exploring downtown Toronto. Habibz Corner is a solid choice for anyone looking for fresh halal food without waiting too long or paying too much.

Rating: 4.9 (4258 reviews)
Location: 578 Queen St W, Toronto, ON
Contact: (647) 329-0669
Website: Visit Website

11) Karahi Point North York

v2 tnyfn 403yq

When I visited Karahi Point in North York, I found the atmosphere relaxed and casual. It’s a great spot if you want classic Indian and South Asian dishes without any fuss. The menu focuses on halal options, which is important for many families in the city.

The food felt fresh and carefully prepared. I especially liked the karahi dishes, which were flavorful and cooked just right. The kebabs were sizzling and had a nice balance of spices. It’s clear they put effort into making authentic recipes.

The restaurant works well for both dine-in and takeout. The staff were friendly and helped me choose a few popular items. It felt like a reliable place for halal South Asian food in a busy area.

If you want to try Pakistani dishes in Toronto, this location is a solid choice. It’s not fancy, but it offers tasty food in a straightforward setting that many will appreciate.

Rating: 4.5 (5754 reviews)
Location: 2201 Finch Ave W, Toronto, ON M9M 2Y9
Contact: (416) 749-2997
Website: Visit Website

12) Xawaash

v2 tnyfv tedfu

I recently visited Xawaash, a Halal Somali Mediterranean restaurant in Etobicoke. The place has a simple, relaxed atmosphere where the focus is clearly on the food. Their menu features a mix of traditional Somali dishes and fusion meals that reflect Somalia’s diverse cultural influences.

I tried their grilled meat dish with Somali rice and fresh salads. The flavors were well-balanced and the food felt fresh and healthy. The oven-baked pitas they serve on the side were warm and soft, which added a nice touch to the meal.

Xawaash offers vegetarian options as well, which makes it a good choice if you want variety. I noticed that the dishes show the strong cultural history of Somalia without being too complicated or heavy. It’s a spot where you can enjoy something new or familiar with ease.

The staff was friendly and the service was quick. I felt the restaurant did a good job of sharing Somali cuisine with people who may not have tried it before, while also meeting the expectations of those who know it well.

Rating: 4.4 (2372 reviews)
Location: 130 Queens Plate Dr #1,2, Etobicoke, ON M9W 0B4
Contact: (416) 747-7221
Website: Visit Website

13) Amal Toronto

v2 tnyg5 jyjfg

I stopped by Amal Toronto and found it to be a stylish spot with a modern vibe. The space is open and comfortable, making it easy to enjoy a meal with friends or family. The menu is focused on Lebanese dishes, with a strong emphasis on sharing plates like meze.

The food has fresh flavors and well balanced spices. I tried a few skewers and platters, and each dish was cooked just right. It’s clear they use quality ingredients, and everything felt authentic without being too heavy.

The staff was attentive without being intrusive. They offered helpful recommendations and made sure my experience was smooth. It’s a good place if you want to try Lebanese food that feels both traditional and modern.

Amal also works well for group gatherings, with options to book events. It’s a welcoming spot in the heart of Toronto that brings Lebanese culture to life through food and atmosphere.

Rating: 4.3 (2707 reviews)
Location: 131 Bloor St W 2nd Floor, Toronto, ON M5S 1R1
Contact: (416) 551-9929
Website: Visit Website

14) Azkadenya Restaurant

v2 tnygz ez5z6

I visited Azkadenya on Queen Street West and found the atmosphere calm with a modern touch. The restaurant offers a focused menu filled with Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. Each plate was thoughtfully prepared without being too heavy.

The flavors were bold but not overwhelming. I enjoyed the balance between spices and freshness in every dish. The lamb and chicken options stood out to me because they tasted authentic and well seasoned.

Service was friendly and attentive without being pushy. The team seemed knowledgeable about the menu and answered my questions clearly. The location is easy to reach, right in the heart of Toronto’s busy area.

The setting is casual yet clean, making it a good spot for a simple dinner or a casual night out. It’s a place I would come back to for reliable Mediterranean food without fuss.

Rating: 4.3 (956 reviews)
Location: 235 Queen St W, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z4
Contact: (416) 260-5555
Website: Visit Website

15) Souk Tabule

v2 tnyh9 hcbba

I recently visited Souk Tabule in the Canary District, and I was impressed by its fresh take on Middle Eastern food. The restaurant is fast casual, which means you can get good food quickly without losing quality. I enjoyed the wraps and salads, which tasted healthy and flavorful.

The setting is modern with plenty of natural light, making it a welcoming spot for a quick lunch or casual meal. The menu offers Beirut-style street food, including some standout dishes like the all-day shakshuka. It’s clear that Souk Tabule focuses on using high quality ingredients.

While they don’t take reservations for regular seating, they do accept bookings for private events. They also have a market section with Middle Eastern groceries like za’atar and olive oil, which adds a nice touch for those who want to bring some flavors home.

Rating: 4.4 (1359 reviews)
Location: 494 Front St E, Toronto, ON M5A 0J1
Contact: (416) 583-5914
Website: Visit Website

What Makes a Restaurant Halal?

To be halal, a restaurant must follow specific rules about food preparation and ingredients. These rules ensure the food meets Islamic dietary laws. I focus on how certification works and what ingredients are allowed in halal dishes.

Halal Certification and Standards

Halal certification shows that a restaurant follows Islamic dietary laws strictly. This certification is given by recognized bodies that inspect the supply chain and kitchen practices.

The restaurant must use halal meat, which means the animal is slaughtered in a specific way. It must be healthy and alive at the time of slaughter, with a prayer said during the process. No cross-contamination with haram food is allowed.

Certification bodies also check if alcohol or forbidden substances are absent from the kitchen. Many halal restaurants display their certification to assure customers of their compliance and trustworthiness.

Best Halal Restaurants in Toronto

Common Ingredients in Halal Cuisine

Halal cuisine uses ingredients that are pure and allowed by Islamic law. Halal meat such as beef, lamb, chicken, and fish must come from animals slaughtered properly. Pork and pork products are never used. Other common ingredients include:

  • Vegetables and fruits
  • Grains and legumes
  • Dairy products from halal animals
  • Spices and herbs

Alcohol and gelatin from non-halal sources are avoided. Many halal restaurants focus on fresh, natural ingredients to keep their food clean and permissible. I look for these ingredients when choosing a halal meal.

Choosing the Right Halal Restaurant in Toronto

Finding a good halal restaurant means thinking about who you’re dining with and how easy it is to get there. I look for places that suit family needs and are easy to reach by car or public transit. These factors help make the dining experience smooth and enjoyable.

Family-Friendly Dining Options

When I choose a halal restaurant, I consider if the space works for families. This means roomy seating, kids’ menus, or simple meals that even picky eaters will like. Some restaurants provide high chairs or play areas, which makes dining easier when kids are around.

I also check if the place is noisy or quiet. A calm atmosphere works better if I bring young children or older relatives. Sometimes a busy restaurant isn’t the best choice for a family dinner.

Menus with fresh, familiar options can please all ages. For example, places like Backyard Smokehouse or Paramount Fine Foods offer variety, from grilled meats to milder dishes.

Accessibility and Location Considerations

I pay attention to where the restaurant is and how easy it is to get there, especially in a big city like Toronto. Places near major transit lines or with ample parking make visits less stressful.

If I’m meeting friends from different places, I prefer restaurants central to public transit like Byblos or Xawaash. High walkability or nearby subway stops matter a lot.

For people with mobility issues, I check if the restaurant has ramps, elevators, or accessible washrooms. Some halal spots clearly note this online or on review sites, which helps avoid surprises.

Conclusion

I’ve gathered detailed information about some of the best halal spots across different parts of Toronto and nearby areas. Here, I focus on what makes each area unique and highlight standout restaurants you can visit.

FAQs-Frequently Asked Questions

For a more upscale experience, I suggest checking out NAAN KABOB. Their modern take on traditional dishes makes them a top choice. The atmosphere there matches the quality of food, offering a refined dining experience.

Downtown Toronto has a strong variety, but I recommend The Halal Guys for their famous platters and quick service. It’s a great spot for authentic flavors in a casual setting. Shah’s Halal Food is also popular for its rich, flavorful meals.

Karahi Boys stands out for their halal steak and grilled meat options. They serve hearty portions with bold spices, appealing to those who want a satisfying, meat-focused meal.

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *