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Best Halal Restaurants In Washington DC: Tracking down halal restaurants in Washington DC recently? The search can be tiring and frustrating, especially with an empty and growling stomach. Worry no more, This article shall have an exclusive list of the 10 best halal restaurants in Washington DC for both locals trying to explore and tourists.
As we set off on a scrumptious culinary tour of the halal restaurant industry, let’s revel in the tantalizing flavors of halal cuisine! In this study, we explore the varied and mouthwatering menus of halal-certified restaurants, where culinary customs from all over the world harmoniously coexist.
Join us as we discover the finest halal hotspots, explore their cultural diversity, and savor the taste of authenticity, from sizzling kebabs to savory biryanis. Prepare to sate your appetite and discover the kaleidoscopic array of flavors available at these halal restaurants!
Explore The 10 Best Halal Restaurants In Washington DC
The city is home to a large number of halal eateries serving a wide range of cuisines, including Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, Turkish, Afghan, and more. Due to their convenient locations in the city’s numerous neighborhoods, both locals and tourists may readily access these restaurants.
Let’s check out the list finally.
1. Sakina Halal Grill

In Washington, D.C., there is a well-known halal eatery called Sakina Halal Grill. It has a reputation for delivering delectable and genuine halal food, drawing both residents and tourists looking for top-notch halal eating options.
The eatery is renowned for its extensive menu, which includes a variety of dishes inspired by South Asian and Middle Eastern cuisines. Kebabs, gyros, shawarma, biryanis, falafel, and a variety of grilled meats and vegetables were just a few of Sakina Halal Grill’s hallmark specialties. The meal appealed to various palates, making sure there were choices for both vegetarians and meat eaters.
Sakina Halal Grill’s dedication to employing top-notch halal foods was one of its attractions. Many Muslim patrons gave the restaurant their faith and devotion as a result of its commitment to halal standards and openness about where its food is from.
The restaurant’s inviting atmosphere made it a great place for a relaxed meal with friends and family. The team was renowned for providing courteous and attentive service, which improved customers’ entire eating experience.
More Details
Location:
- Address: 1108 K St NW, Washington, DC 20005
- Phone: (202) 637-9770, (202) 347-0256
- Website: www.sakinahalalgrill.com
Cuisine:
- Middle Eastern and Pakistani cuisine
- Halal meat
Menu:
- Appetizers: samosas, pakoras, hummus, baba ghanoush, tabouli, and more
- Entrees: chicken tikka, lamb chops, beef kebab, chicken biryani, lamb curry, and more
- Vegetarian options: falafel, vegetable biryani, chana masala, and more
- Desserts: baklava, gulab jamun, and more
Ambiance:
- Casual dining atmosphere
- Spacious seating area
- Clean and well-maintained
Service:
- Friendly and attentive staff
- Quick service
Price:
- Reasonable prices
- Lunch specials available
2. Mama Ayesha’s Restaurant

One of the best halal restaurants In Washington DC., there is a renowned and legendary restaurant called Mama Ayesha’s Restaurant. It has a unique place in the gastronomic and cultural history of the city.
The eatery has the name of its creator, Ayesha Abraham, also known as “Mama Ayesha.” She was a well-known and well-respected member of the neighborhood. Since it first opened its doors in 1960, Mama Ayesha’s has served as a popular destination for people from all walks of life to eat authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean food.
The vivid and sizable painting that graces the façade of Mama Ayesha’s is one of the restaurant’s most noticeable features. The artwork shows Mama Ayesha surrounded by successive American presidents as a representation of her long-standing connections to politicians and luminaries. Washington, D.C.’s Adams Morgan neighborhood has grown to be a recognizable landmark.
A delicious variety of meals showcasing the flavors of the Middle East and the Mediterranean can be found on Mama Ayesha’s menu. Hummus, falafel, tabbouleh, kebabs, and stuffed grape leaves are a few of the favorites. Customers are guaranteed a memorable dining experience thanks to the restaurant’s dedication to using fresh and high-quality ingredients.
Location:
- 1967 Calvert St NW, Washington, DC 20009
- Phone: (202) 232-5431
- Website: www.mamaayeshas.com
Cuisine:
- Middle Eastern and Mediterranean
Menu:
- Hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, shawarma, kebab, lamb chops, and more
Ambiance:
- Cozy and traditional decor, outdoor seating available
Service:
- Friendly and attentive staff
Price:
- Moderate prices
Social Media:
3. Ottoman Taverna

In Washington, D.C., Ottoman Taverna offers a distinctive dining experience influenced by Turkish and Ottoman cuisine.
Ottoman Taverna gave visitors to the nation’s capital a flavor of Turkey. The menu of the restaurant offered a wide selection of dishes that celebrated the illustrious culinary heritage of the Ottoman Empire. A wide selection of mezze, grilled meats, fish, and excellent vegetarian alternatives were available to customers.
Kebabs paired with aromatic rice, grilled veggies, and delectable sauces were some of the restaurant’s hallmark dishes. Baklava and kunefe, two classic Turkish desserts, were also on the menu. To go along with the meal, the restaurant also offered a variety of Turkish drinks and wines.
Ottoman Taverna has a reputation as a renowned eating destination in the city thanks to its emphasis on serving authentic Turkish flavors and dedication to using high-quality products.
Location:
- 425 I St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone:
- (202) 847-0389
Website:
Cuisine:
- Turkish and Mediterranean
Menu:
- Meze platters, lamb chops, kebab, seafood, and more
Ambiance:
- Modern and elegant decor and outdoor seating are available
Service:
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Price:
- Moderate to high prices
Social Media:
4. Lebanese Taverna

A reputable restaurant franchise with several locations, including some in the Washington, D.C. metro region, is called Lebanese Taverna, and this is one of the best halal restaurants In Washington DC. A taste of Lebanon’s rich culinary heritage may be had at Lebanese Taverna, which specializes in presenting real Lebanese food.
A range of typical Lebanese foods, including hummus, baba ghanoush, falafel, tabbouleh, shawarma, kebabs, and other grilled meats and seafood, are available on the restaurant’s extensive menu. A variety of delectable vegetarian alternatives are also available, making it a welcome venue for those with all dietary preferences.
Location:
- 40 Fulham Palace Rd, London W6 9PH, United Kingdom
- Multiple locations in Washington DC
Phone:
- Varies by location
Website:
Cuisine:
- Lebanese
Menu:
- Hummus, tabouli, shawarma, kebab, lamb chops, and more
Ambiance:
- Casual and family-friendly atmosphere
Service:
- Friendly and efficient staff
Price:
- Moderate prices
Social Media:
5. Muncheez Mania

Lebanese and Mediterranean staples including shawarma, falafel, hummus, baba ghanoush, grilled kebabs, and fresh salads were frequently offered on Muncheez Mania’s menu. In order to accommodate a variety of palates, they also offered sandwiches, wraps, and platters with a selection of meat and vegetarian options.
The eatery was well-known for its fast-casual approach, making it a popular place for both dine-in and takeaway clients looking for quick and delectable meals. The atmosphere at Muncheez Mania was generally laid-back and unhurried, offering patrons a cozy setting to savor their meals.
Muncheez Mania provided catering services in addition to its physical sites so that clients may enjoy its delectable Lebanese and Mediterranean fare during events and get-togethers.
Location:
- 1071 Wisconsin Ave NW, Washington, DC 20007
Phone:
- (202) 808-8950
Website:
Cuisine:
- Lebanese and Mediterranean
Menu:
- Manakeesh (Lebanese flatbread), shawarma, falafel, hummus, and more
Ambiance:
- Casual and modern decor and outdoor seating are available
Service:
- Friendly and efficient staff
Price:
- Moderate prices
6. Kabob Palace

One of the best halal restaurants In Washington DC and also famous for its superb Afghan and Pakistani food, Kabob Palace. It had developed a devoted following among residents and tourists, making it a well-known location for people looking for genuine and savory South Asian cuisine.
The menu at Kabob Palace often included a wide selection of traditional Afghan and Pakistani foods, with a focus on kabobs. Various kabobs made from meats such as lamb, chicken, beef, and shellfish that have been marinated and cooked to perfection were among the most well-liked dishes. They also offered a variety of sides and appetizers, fragrant rice dishes, and savory curries.
Customers gave the restaurant high marks for its vibrant and rich flavors as well as its substantial portion sizes, helping to build its reputation as the neighborhood’s go-to place for fulfilling meals.
Location:
- 2315 S Eads St, Arlington, VA 22202 (near Washington DC)
Phone:
- (703) 486-3535
Website:
Cuisine:
- Afghan and Pakistani
Menu:
- Kebab, biryani, curry, naan, and more
Ambiance:
- Casual and spacious seating area
Service:
- Friendly and efficient staff
Price:
- Moderate prices
7. Gypsy Kitchen DC

Gipsy Kitchen DC offers a distinctive eating experience with a focus on Spanish and Mediterranean food.
Through its menu selections, Gipsy Kitchen DC sought to convey customers to the vivacious and varied flavors of the Mediterranean region. The restaurant frequently served food that was influenced by the regional cuisines of Spain, North Africa, and other Mediterranean nations.
Both bigger sharing entrees and a variety of tapas (small plates) were frequently available on the menu at Gipsy Kitchen DC. Paella, patatas bravas, charcuterie boards, seafood meals, and other grilled meats and vegetables may have been some of the most well-liked foods. They might have also provided a variety of wines and beverages to go with the meal.
Location:
- 2039 M St NW, Washington, DC 20036
Phone:
- (202) 525-5386
Website:
Cuisine:
- Mediterranean and North African
Menu:
- Mezze, tagines, couscous, kebab, and more
Ambiance:
- Cozy and eclectic decor, outdoor seating available
Service:
- Friendly and knowledgeable staff
Price:
- Moderate to high prices
Social Media:
8. Rumi’s Kitchen

One of the best halal restaurants In Washington DC, which takes its name from the well-known Persian poet of the 13th century, Rumi, provides a special dining experience with a focus on Persian food.
Rumi’s Kitchen offered a wide selection of traditional Persian cuisine with the goal of showcasing the varied flavors and culinary traditions of Iran. Kebabs, stews, rice dishes, and a variety of vegetarian options might have been some of the more well-liked foods on the menu. The eatery was renowned for using seasonal ingredients and time-tested spices to produce tasty and aromatic dishes.
Location:
- 640 L St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone:
- (202) 898-5878
Website:
Cuisine:
- Persian
Menu:
- Kebabs, stews, rice dishes, and more
Ambiance:
- Modern and elegant decor and outdoor seating are available
Service:
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Price:
- Moderate to high prices
Social Media:
9. Zaytinya

The ThinkFoodGroup restaurant company, which includes the Zaytinya restaurant, is run by renowned chef José Andrés and is renowned for its outstanding Middle Eastern and Mediterranean fare.
The menu at Zaytinya features a great selection of small plates and mezze that are influenced by the culinary customs of Lebanon, Turkey, Greece, and other Mediterranean nations. Hummus, falafel, spanakopita, lamb kebabs, grilled octopus, and a variety of fresh seafood alternatives are some of the most well-liked delicacies.
The restaurant is a favorite of both culinary lovers and critics due to its emphasis on using only the freshest, highest-quality ingredients and innovative flavor combinations.
The word “Zaytinya,” which is how the restaurant is named, is derived from the Turkish word “zeytinya,” which means olive oil. Olive oil is a key component of many of the meals that are offered.
Location:
- 701 9th St NW, Washington, DC 20001
Phone:
- (202) 638-0800
Website:
Cuisine:
- Mediterranean
Menu:
- Mezze, flatbreads, kebab, seafood, and more
Ambiance:
- Modern and stylish decor and outdoor seating are available
Service:
- Attentive and knowledgeable staff
Price:
- Moderate to high prices
social Media:
10. Ilili Restaurant

One of the best halal restaurants In Washington DC, Ilili Restaurant is a well-known Lebanese-Mediterranean restaurant in New York City. The restaurant Ilili, which was renowned for its upscale and fashionable dining experience, had a diverse menu that featured traditional Lebanese foods with modern twists.
Mezze (small plates), grilled meats, fish, and vegetarian alternatives were frequently available on the restaurant’s menu. There might have been a variety of hummus, lamb chops, shawarma, kebabs, and tasty salads among the menu items at ilili that were very popular. The restaurant has a reputation for serving up extraordinary flavors due to the utilization of fresh, high-quality ingredients and creative cooking techniques.
Location:
- 2365 18th St NW, Washington, DC 20009
Phone:
- (202) 986-9600
Website:
Cuisine:
- Lebanese
Menu:
- mezze, kebab, seafood, and more
Ambiance:
- modern and elegant decor, outdoor seating available
Service:
- attentive and knowledgeable staff
Price:
- moderate to high prices
Social Media:
Overall, these halal eateries provide a selection of halal cuisines, including options for vegetarians and meat eaters. All of the restaurants offer attentive and educated service despite having various settings and price points.
Also, Read:
Top 10 Best Halal Restaurants In Atlanta In 2023
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Is Chick Fil halal in the USA?
According to the most recent Islamic community guidelines, Chick-fil-A is not recognized as halal in the United States. Their major menu items, like sandwiches and chicken, are not regarded as halal, although having certain side dishes that are. Because Chick-fil-A does not publicly publish information regarding the sources of its animals, there are assumptions and misunderstandings about whether or not its meat is halal.
2. What is the best halal dish?
Popular halal foods include hummus, Shawarma, Baba Ghanouj/Ghanoush, Halvah, and Tabbouleh.
3. Does Washington DC have restaurants?
Yes, Muslim diners can find a selection of halal restaurants in Washington, DC. In Washington, DC, there are lots of halal restaurants serving Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and other halal food. All top restaurants are included in the list above.
Conclusion
In conclusion, our exploration of the 10 best halal restaurants has provided a delicious kaleidoscope of tastes and cultural diversity. These halal-certified restaurants offer a wide range of delightful selections to gratify every appetite, from traditional Middle Eastern treats to tantalizing Mediterranean meals and beyond.
Indulge in the gastronomic wonders that these restaurants provide and let your taste senses explore the globe with the security of halal bliss. Enjoy your halal meals!