Halal food has become a huge part of the UK dining culture. Whether you’re looking for halal dishes near you, popular halal takeaway meals, or classic restaurant favourites, there’s something for every taste. From rich curries to flavour-packed grills, halal cuisine in the UK offers diversity, authenticity, and comfort.
If you’re wondering what to order next time you search “halal food near me”, this complete guide covers the most popular halal dishes to order in the UK perfect for beginners, food lovers, and anyone wanting to try new flavours.
1. Why Halal Food Is So Popular in the UK
Over the years, halal food has grown far beyond a dietary requirement. In the UK, it’s now enjoyed by people from all backgrounds because:
- It’s prepared with care and high standards
- It includes bold, rich flavours from Middle Eastern, South Asian, Turkish, and African cuisines
- Many takeaways and restaurants offer halal options, making it easy to find halal dishes near you
- UK food culture embraces global flavours
Today, halal takeaways and halal restaurants are among the busiest food spots in major UK cities.
2. What Makes a Dish “Halal”?
Before diving into the food list, it helps to understand what halal means.
A dish is considered halal when:
- The meat is sourced from halal-certified suppliers
- No prohibited ingredients are used (such as alcohol, pork, or non-halal gelatine)
- Food preparation follows halal guidelines
- There is no cross-contamination with non-halal items
When ordering from any takeaway, it’s a good idea to check their halal certification or ask for clarification.
3. Most Popular Halal Chicken Dishes in the UK
Chicken is the star of many halal menus. Here are the UK’s most ordered halal chicken dishes:
✔ Chicken Biryani
A fragrant rice dish layered with tender chicken, spices, and herbs. It’s a staple across South Asian takeaways and a UK favourite.
✔ Chicken Tikka Masala
Creamy, mildly spiced, and packed with flavour—this dish is a top choice in halal curry restaurants.
✔ Halal Peri Peri Chicken
From mild lemon & herb to extra hot, peri peri chicken is one of the UK most popular halal takeaway options.
✔ Grilled Halal Chicken
A healthier alternative that still delivers big flavours. Often served with rice or salad.
These options are ideal for anyone searching for halal chicken dishes near me.
4. Top Halal Curry Dishes Loved Across the UK
Curry lovers in the UK will instantly recognise these classics:
✔ Chicken Korma
Creamy and slightly sweet, korma is perfect for those who enjoy mild halal curries.
✔ Lamb Karahi
Rich, spicy, and traditionally cooked in a wok-style pan. It’s one of the most popular halal lamb dishes in the UK.
✔ Butter Chicken (Halal Version)
Smooth, buttery, and full of flavour—this is a bestseller in many halal takeaways.
✔ Haleem
A slow-cooked mix of meat, lentils, and spices. Nutritious, filling, and extremely popular.
Whether you prefer mild or spicy, there is a halal curry dish for every taste.
5. Popular Halal Street Food & Quick Bites
If you’re looking for something flavourful and fast, halal street-style food is always a hit.
✔ Doner Kebab
A UK classic! Soft flatbread filled with halal meat, salad, and sauces.
✔ Halal Smash Burgers
Juicy patties served with cheese, sauces, and brioche buns. The popularity of halal burgers has exploded in recent years.
✔ Chicken Shawarma
Perfectly marinated and slow-cooked meat, served in wraps or plates.
✔ Loaded Fries (Halal Style)
Topped with chilli, grilled chicken, or doner meat. Great for sharing.
These dishes dominate online searches for “halal fast food near me”.
6. Best Halal Rice & Noodle Dishes
Looking for something comforting and filling?
✔ Pilau Rice
Lightly spiced rice that pairs well with most halal curries.
✔ Singapore Halal Noodles
A UK favourite—stir-fried noodles with chicken or prawns, made without alcohol.
✔ Halal Fried Rice
Flavoured with soy (halal-certified), egg, vegetables, and chicken or beef.
These dishes are perfect for quick lunches or family dinners.
7. Famous Halal BBQ & Grill Dishes
Halal grills are extremely popular in the UK due to their smoky flavour and generous portions.
✔ Mixed Grill Platter
A combination of kebabs, lamb chops, chicken tikka, and wings.
✔ Seekh Kebabs
Minced meat, seasoned and grilled to perfection.
✔ Lamb Chops
Juicy, tender, and marinated in spices—always a favourite.
These dishes are commonly ordered from halal BBQ takeaways or dine-in restaurants.
8. Popular Halal Vegetarian & Vegan Options
Not all halal food includes meat. Many vegetarian dishes naturally meet halal requirements.
✔ Chana Masala
A spicy chickpea curry, full of flavour.
✔ Vegetable Biryani
Fragrant rice layered with mixed vegetables.
✔ Paneer Tikka
Chargrilled cottage cheese served with spices and peppers.
Ideal for customers searching for “vegetarian halal dishes UK”.
9. Best Halal Desserts to Order in the UK
Finish your meal with something sweet:
✔ Gulab Jamun
Soft, syrup-soaked dumplings.
✔ Kheer
A creamy rice pudding topped with nuts.
✔ Baklava
Layers of pastry and honey—popular in Turkish and Middle Eastern takeaways.
✔ Halal Cakes & Ice Creams
Many UK bakeries now specialise in halal-friendly desserts.
10. How to Choose the Best Halal Takeaway Near You
Finding high-quality halal food is easy if you know what to check:
- Look for halal certification
- Check Google reviews for authenticity
- Avoid takeaways that serve alcohol-heavy dishes
- Browse menus for clear halal labels
- Order from trusted names (like Spice & Spirits, known for fresh and authentic halal dishes)
Final Thoughts
The UK is home to some of the most diverse halal food options in the world. From hearty curries to sizzling grills and delicious street food, there are endless halal dishes worth exploring.
Whether you’re ordering for yourself, family, or friends, this guide gives you a reliable list of the most popular halal dishes to order in the UK.
