The search for Halal food can be daunting for a traveling Muslim. However, there is nothing to worry about, as you will be spoilt for choices with delicious traditional Halal British food in London.
In fact, Muslims make up 15% of the demographic population in the Greater London area and is a number that is growing rapidly with the entry of mosques and Halal meat suppliers.
In this article, we will look at where you can savor Halal food through traditional British dishes so you will always experience the tantalizing flavors of British food culture.
Image Credit: Grounded Coffee Company London
This British staple is a century-old dish that originated for the nobles (where they could show off the quality of their ingredients and cooks’ prowess). Towards the 1900s, the tradition was carried to the mass market and now mainly consisted of bacon, sausages, eggs, baked beans, tomatoes, mushrooms, and toast.
Grounded London is a Halal-certified restaurant and uses turkey bacon and beef sausages to complement the meal. You will get the full English Breakfast experience along with their fresh coffee to keep you energized. Just be prepared to queue, though.
Image Credit: Jack the Chipper London
Considered a national dish, fish and chips are commonly available in food stalls, pubs, and restaurants as they are easy to snack on and takeaway.
The batter for the fish is usually beer, although many places, such as Jack The Chipper, do offer an alcohol-free substitute to accommodate consumers’ preferences. The traditional meal uses cod or haddock for the fish ingredient, as their mild flavor goes well with the crispiness of the batter.
However, do take note that most British restaurants, including Jack The Chipper, serve alcohol even though their menu and batter are alcohol-free.
Image Credit: Lisa Baker from Unsplash
Like its name, this meal is served on Sundays with its historic origins where churchgoers eat a large meal after Sunday service. It has become a British tradition where a Sunday roast feast is served on that particular day.
The ingredients of Sunday Roast consist of roasted protein, roasted potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding, and gravy. At Steak On The Green Steakhouse, you can have it Halal with their free-range chicken alongside the rest of its accompaniments.
Image Credit: Rabbit Hole Cafe
“Bangers” (also known as sausages) and “mash” (mashed potatoes) are a pub staple and are served with pork sausages and gravy. However, knowing London has a Halal selection for everything, I discovered a Halal version that works for everyone.
The Rabbit Hole has a delicious alternative using beef sausages and is also well-known for its other Halal English breakfast choices. Their bangers and mash are colorful, flavorful, and scrumptious with a side of onions! The restaurant is also known for its all-halal menu, so don't be afraid to try some of their favorite menus during your visit!
Image Credit: Dishoom
Ask any London person what they think the national dish may be and most will answer Chicken Tikka Masala. It is made with boneless chicken with spices and tomato-based curry.
There’s no doubt the British love their meat with gravy, as seen in most of the dishes listed here, which is why this Indian fusion dish is such a hit. In fact, Chicken Tikka Masala originated in the UK, as there is an added layer of sweetness found in this dish as opposed to authentic Indian dishes.
One such location that serves this dish is Dishoom, a highly-rated restaurant with multiple branches within London. They are hard to miss with their long queues during peak hours (I have seen people waiting in the rain for an hour, I’m glad I booked a reservation at 5 pm instead!). Try their Chicken Ruby Curry, and upgraded version of the Tikka Masala!
Image Credit: Sanderson London
It’s tea time! This British tradition is all about relaxing with a cup of tea with little treats such as sandwiches, scones, and cake.
For a magical experience, dine at a replica of Alice in Wonderland at the Mad Hatters inside Sanderson’s Hotel. There are vegan and Halal-friendly options upon request.
The finger sandwiches and scones are highly recommended so order the set!
Image Credit: Chin Chin Ice Cream
This dessert is a British steamed sponge cake with toffee sauce. It is served warm, tastes best right out of the oven and topped with ice cream.
And when it comes to desserts, Chin Chin Labs (formerly known as Chin Chin Ice Cream) does it the best with its unique selection of liquid nitrogen ice cream flavors.
For more dessert options, check out our Top Dessert Cafes in London (Halal!).
With some of these picks, I hope I’ve simplified your choices when it comes to choosing Halal restaurants for traditional British food!
Share this article with your foodie friends (the more, the merrier!) so you can indulge together!
If you are curious about other traditional British cuisine, I’ve written a Deep Dive Into The Food Culture In The UK!
Cover Image Credit: Sebastian Coman Photography on Unsplash
