Looking for the best halal restaurants in Ottawa but don’t know where to go? Or looking for a new favorite? Here’s a guide to some of the best halal restaurants in town.
While Ottawa is famous for it’s delicious Shawarma, I’ve refrained from including them here unless they are really exceptional. The options included here offer halal meat, not just ‘halal friendly’ options like vegetarian or seafood options.
While sadly there aren’t a ton of halal certified places, there’s still a good mix of cuisines, from Korean to Indian and of course, Middle Eastern!
By no means is this list comprehensive, these are just a few of either my faves or recommendations from friends. If I’ve missed something you think should be here, let me know!
Yalla, let’s eat! In no particular order, let’s get started!
East India Company
Chicken tikka, chana masala, fresh naan, oh my! What’s even more to love about Indian cuisine, is that they offer halal meat options. They offer a buffet option which lets you eat as much as your tummy will allow! A great place to satisfy your craving for mouth watering Indian halal cuisine!
Must-try at East India Company: The butter chicken doesn’t disappoint and the Biryani’s have such great flavor!
O-Frango
I was actually hesitant to share one of our secret spots, but I’m not a gatekeeper, so now you know about O-Frango! Don’t let this food truck deceive you, this unique fried chicken and fries in a box concept is finger licking! They’ve also got different sauces available so the options are endless.
Les Grillades
This mediterranean spot has fantastic charcoal BBQ meats and grilled fish. With all the usual traditional Lebanese options, you can’t go wrong with just about any choice here!
Must-try at Les Grillades: I’m a huge fan of brunch – try the foul!
Seoul Dog
Are you a kdrama fan and have seen this interesting corn dog eating on many the shows? Korean corn dogs are different from your typical American corn dogs, although they may look the same. They have different batters and the Korean versions can have different toppings and in some cases fillings other than hotdogs as well. While the beef here isn’t halal, the chicken sausages are. These corn dogs are quite filling, so recommend you order one at a time and then reorder if you’ve still got room to taste different toppings and flavor combinations!
Must-try at Seoul Dog: Chicken corn dog (covered in potatoes)
Paramount fine foods
Paramount has a heart warming story of how the franchise has now expanded to offer several locations across the city. For good reason too, they’ve got good quality and taste!
Must-try at Paramount: The combo platter
Wolf Down
The infamous Berlin doner has made it’s way to Ottawa at Wolf Down. The street food can be a bit messy to eat, but it’s worth it for the flavors. Get it the traditional way with the sesame crusted flatbread (yum!) or there are gluten-free/keto options for bowls or salads.
Must-try at Wolf Down: The beef sandwich with secret sauce
Nando’s
While only the locations in Ontario serve halal certified chicken, it’s at the very least refreshing to see some restaurant chains offering this. If you haven’t already tried it, Nando’s is famous for their South African peri-peri chicken and sauces. You may have even seen their sauces sold at your local grocery store!
Must-try at Nandos: Peri-Peri chicken, I’m a fan of the lemon & herb, but choose based on your spice tolerance!
Salang Kabob House
Salang serves Afghani and Pakistani dishes, combining two incredible cuisines. From kebabs to butter chicken, there’s variety to satisfy even the pickiest eater.
Must-try at Salang Kabob House: Salang combo
Luna Crepes & Cafe
Luna hands down as to be one of the best halal restaurants in Kanata. From sandwiches, soups, gelatos to crepes, everything here is yummy!
Must-try at Luna’s: Zaatar and Halloumi Crepe or Chicken Avocado Italiano
1 for 1 pizza
Don’t let the simple name fool you, if you’re craving some halal pizza, this is it! I know pizza is often tricky as the majority of places are not halal friendly or offer limited options without having to do many modifications. 1 for 1 has halal chicken options in so many configurations that you just might find your new go to pizza spot.
Must-try at 1 for 1 pizza: Pesto pizza
German Doner Kebab
With branches all over the world, this doner kebab chain is a safe bet! Try a classic doner in flatbread or branch out and try a doner in a box.
Must-try at German Doner Kebab: Doner gym box
Kara Mia
If you’ve been looking for an Italian halal restaurant or one to satisfy a halal steak craving, this is your spot! Their unique take on modern Italian food will make this a place you’ll want to visit again and again.
Must-try at Kara Mia: Fettuccini Kara Mia
Pita Bell
Without a doubt (imo) Pita Bell is not only the best halal restaurant in Ottawa, it’s one of my fave restaurants – period! If you’re looking for a place for dinner or lunch, don’t walk, run there now! Not to mention the decor and vibe of the restaurant is very nice!
Must-try at Pita Bell: If you are with a group, get the platters, not only is the food delicious, but the presentation is outstanding. Also highly recommend the turkish pies.
Ottawa Kabab
This Iraqi restaurant will satisfy all your kabab cravings and then some! I also don’t want to oversell it, but the Iraqi bread they serve is incredible!
Must-try at Ottawa Kabab: Mixed plate – order the bread!!
Mongolian Village
Personalize and build your own stir-fry, specify the spiceness and watch your food be cooked in front of your eyes! This is a unique and fun dining experience that’s worth a try.
Must-try at Mongolian Village: Bao buns and kung fu chicken (or build your own).
It’s so great to see more halal places popping up in Ottawa with cuisines from all over the globe! Like I said, this list is by no means comprehensive, so please let me know if this list is missing any of your favorites! Will try to keep as updated as possible as I try out or am recommended good halal spots.
Bon appétit! Bil hana w shifa! بالهنا والشفا
Safe this list of delicious ottawa halal restaurants for later!
