Hong Kong is well known across the world for its diverse culinary landscape. The SAR also has several restaurants that cater to people with specific requirements, whether they are dietary or religious. There are currently 63 certified halal establishments in the city, which ensure that animals or poultry used in dishes are prepared in accordance with Islamic customs. This list includes Explorer’s Club Restaurant in Hong Kong Disneyland, which makes the 852 Disney theme park the only one in the world that serves halal-compliant meals.
This year, the holy month of Ramadan — a period when Muslims across the world fast from sunrise to sunset as a reminder of the less fortunate and to remember to be grateful — lasts from March 23 till April 21. The meal eaten after sunset to break a Ramadan fast is known as iftar. Here’s our pick of halal restaurants in the city, some of which offer iftar meal sets during Ramadan.
Jashan — Central
This popular restaurant is renowned for its modern take on Indian food and specialises in dishes from the northern part of the country. This Ramadan, they have an Iftar meal set priced at HK$208 per person that comprises a non-alcoholic drink, a refreshment, main course, dessert, and a beverage. The menu includes Indian specials like roh afza, butter chicken, Hyderabadi mutton biryani, and rasmalai. The meal is for a minimum of two people.
1st Floor, Amber Lodge, 23 Hollywood Road, Central | + 852 3105 5300
Islamic Centre Canteen — Wan Chai
This budget-friendly spot is one of the best places in town for halal dimsum and Cantonese food. The menu is extensive and includes curries, rice dishes and noodles — and the portions are huge! Remember that the last call for dimsum is 2.30pm, Sundays tend to get quite busy, and only Muslims are allowed to enter because the restaurant is on the premises of a mosque.
5/F, Masjid Ammar And Osman Ramju Sadick Islamic Centre, 40 Salvation Army Street, Wan Chai | +852 2834 8211
Hello India Restaurant & Bar — Tsim Sha Tsui
Our second Indian pick for this list has a starters-main course-drinks-and-dessert Iftar meal set that comprises hearty dishes such as lamb sheekh kebab, chicken biryani, and lamb rogan josh for HK$168 per person. You can even arrange an Iftar buffet as long as you’re part of a group of at least 25 people.
Hanyee Building, Shop A & E, 1/F, 19-21 Hankow Road, Tsim Sha Tsui | +852 2367 7489
Istanbul Turkish Grills and Kebabs — Wan Chai
A popular spot for diners seeking delicious doner rolls and kebabs, and even those who crave something different like Turkish pizzas and burgers. To quench your thirst, take your pick from their authentic selection of beverages including Turkish coffee, tea, and refreshing apple tea.
177-179 Wan Chai Road, Shop No.3, Wan Chai | +852 2573 9101
Saffron Persian Cuisine — Central
This establishment has the distinction of being the first Persian restaurant in Hong Kong. Formerly known as LOVEAT, some of the must-try dishes at this casual dining joint include Mirza Ghasemi (grilled smoked eggplant, tomato, garlic and egg served with naan), the Mix Koobideh (lamb and chicken) with Rice and an assortment of sides, and the baghlava.
Shop E, G/F, Garley Building, 47-53 Graham Street, Central | + 852 2595 9900
Header image credits: Saffron and Jashan
