Navigating London’s Food Scene as a Muslim

Before going to London, I knew the city had a large Muslim population. But upon arrival I was genuinely surprised by how many food accommodations were made for halal eaters like myself. As someone who eats zabiha, it was really important that the food I consumed was halal-certified, and London delivered. 

What shocked me most was discovering that many familiar fast-food chains we have in the U.S., like Taco Bell and Wingstop, were Muslim-owned in the U.K., and offered halal options (look for the halal sticker on the door, though it’s not always guaranteed, so definitely ask!). One tip: always ask! Many places in London are halal, but you usually need to ask or request to see the certificate, and most places are happy to show you.

From Borough market, Camden market, or Old Spitalfields market, the markets were a highlight of my experience abroad. Borough Market, which is super popular on TikTok, was incredibly inclusive and I didn’t feel restricted and was able to try many of the viral foods thanks to halal-friendly options like chicken dishes! Similarly, Camden Market, known for its more unique and experimental food combinations, also had a great selection of halal-friendly stalls. What impressed me most was the incredible diversity of cuisines available, the food wasn’t limited to just one region or type! You could find dishes inspired by cultures from all over the world, which made the experience not only inclusive, but also exciting and enriching. Of course, it’s always important to be cautious when trying new foods and ask questions based on your level of comfort. Personally, I’m pretty strict about how my food is cooked, but I found that most of the stalls at these markets were very accommodating. 

Another major part of the food scene in London is the chicken shops. These are typically small, family-owned restaurants with many of them having the word “chicken” in their name and oddly tend to use a blue theme in their branding. You can walk in and usually find a few chicken items on the menu, and are often served with fries and a drink, all for a relatively low price. These shops are a more affordable alternative to the mainstream food options in London. In my experience, the majority of them are halal, though they’re more common outside of Central London.

For days when you find yourself in a hurry or even traveling outside of London, the go-to option for me was the classic British “meal deal.” Usually costing around £5 or less, you get a sandwich, a drink, and a snack like a pack of chips. While the meat options typically weren’t halal, they offered plenty of alternatives such as egg, tuna, beans, or shrimp sandwiches. You can find them at places like Tesco, Sainsbury’s, or even rest stops! They are reliable, convenient, and affordable. A helpful tip is that when shopping at supermarkets: look for a green circle with a white “V,” which indicates a vegetarian item, free from animal products. This made it easier for me to shop confidently. 

When it came to my university experience, the University of Westminster truly raised the bar for inclusivity. At every social event, there were halal food options clearly labeled with signs, as well as vegetarian choices. Even at the farewell party, they provided a variety of halal chicken options, ensuring that we weren’t limited to one dish. Although I was the only Muslim student in my Westminster Summer School cohort, I felt incredibly welcomed and supported. The staff was kind, attentive, and always made sure I was comfortable — a small detail that made a big difference in my overall experience!

If you love food, London is a dream — the city is truly a melting pot, and that diversity is clearly reflected in its food scene. From street markets to restaurants, you’ll find flavors from all over the world, making it an exciting place to explore as a foodie.

PS, places I recommend: 

• Dishoom 
• Truffle Burger 
• Bunsik Little
• Korea KISH 
• Padella