Many people assume that halal dining has to be expensive, especially in big urban centres—but that’s far from the truth. With a little planning, finding affordable halal restaurants in major cities like London, New York, Toronto, or Kuala Lumpur is completely doable. In fact, some of the tastiest halal food comes from humble takeaways, food trucks, and hidden gems tucked away in multicultural neighbourhoods.

Why Halal Doesn’t Have to Break the Bank

In diverse cities, halal food often overlaps with immigrant-owned eateries, where authentic meals are made with heart—and priced to please. These spots typically serve generous portions at reasonable prices, making them perfect for students, workers, and anyone dining on a budget.

Where to Look for Budget Halal Meals

Here’s how to track down wallet-friendly halal food in major cities:

1. Explore Local Markets & Food Courts

Many city markets and food halls have halal vendors offering wraps, rice boxes, curries, and kebabs for under £10/$10. Look for popular options like:

• Halal Guys in NYC

• Whitechapel food spots in London

• Hawker stalls in Kuala Lumpur

2. Use Food Apps with Halal Filters

Apps like Zabihah, HalalTrip, and HappyCow help you find halal food sorted by price, distance, and reviews. Google Maps is also helpful—just type “cheap halal food near me.”

3. Check Out University Areas

Restaurants and cafés around universities often cater to international students with dietary restrictions—and tight budgets. You’ll often find affordable biryani, chicken shawarma, or halal pizza deals here.

4. Go for Combo or Meal Deals

Many affordable halal restaurants offer combo meals or lunchtime specials. You can enjoy a full meal—think chicken over rice with salad and drink—for less than what you'd pay at a fast food chain.

Examples of Budget-Friendly Halal Spots by City

• London: Taza Grill, Roosters Piri Piri, and Tayyabs (early lunch deals)

• Toronto: King of Donair, Kabul Express

• Dubai: Cafeterias offering shawarma meals and paratha wraps for a few dirhams

• Chicago: Baba’s Famous Steak and Lemonade, I’m Halal

Final Thoughts

Yes—affordable halal restaurants do exist in big cities, and they’re often where you’ll find the most authentic, satisfying meals. Whether you're after comfort food, street snacks, or a full plate of curry and rice, eating halal on a budget is not only possible—it’s delicious.