Halal Spots around Newcastle

Newcastle is nothing less of a food paradise. You are sure to find the perfect food spots on virtually every street in town to spend your afternoons or evenings. While Newcastle prides itself on the myriad of restaurants (& of course, pubs), many of its Muslim population, unfortunately, have to hassle through finding the right halal restaurants, especially given the overwhelming pool of delectable eateries present in town. Hence, this list of some of the best halal restaurants in town could be the ultimate guide—ranging from different cuisines and prices—for Muslims looking to satisfy their food cravings.

In Islam, halal means something is permissible to do or eat. In the case of food, there are specific food or drinks that are not halal, also called haram, which basically means its opposite. Some haram things include alcohol, pork, and meat not cut according to specific procedures. For meat to be halal, the animal it comes from must be raised in good conditions, and once it's cut, it must be done by a Muslim reciting bismillah ("in the name of Allah") and felt in the least painful way by the animal.

Halal Asian Restaurant - Chilli Padi:

Chinese food, but make it halal
Chili Padi is a dream come true for those looking to try authentic East Asian food. From the chef's special Nasi Lamak, to Malaysian Curry, Kung Fu Chicken Bites, as well as mouthwatering Wonton Soup served in Halal chicken broth, you will be amazed at the abundance of selections and portions of each dish. Considering the generous portion sizes and price, each dish is best-enjoyed sharing. One of my go-to dishes is definitely the Nasi Lamak—served with dried fish, succulent chicken bites, aromatic coconut rice, with roasted peanuts topping off the dish; you will be a dream come true for those looking to indulge East Asian food (you are welcome!)
Chili Padi is a short walk from Newcastle University and China Town. Greggs and Costa will be on your blocklist after you've given this place a try!

Halal Fast Food Chains:

If you are feeling Western food, or are on a budget, there are plenty of Halal fast food chains to choose from.

• KFC {*Bear in mind that the only KFC-certified halal store is located right outside The Gate (N58 Newgate Street, NE1 5RF)}
• Jollibee
• Chicken Cottage
• Nando's
• Chicken Shack 

Halal Supermarkets:

If you are looking for butchers that sell halal meat, there are plenty of supermarkets in Newcastle that you can visit. The first one is Bilal Foodstore on Elswick Road. It's a 16-minute bus ride from Haymarket Barras Bridge, located in a quiet part of the town where you can also visit a mosque nearby (sadly, it was closed when I visited). Not only does it sell halal meat, but there is also a bakery and fresh produce.

Another similar supermarket is Najeb Continental Superstore, located on Westgate Road. Though it's a 20-minute bus ride from Sandyford, the meat prices are slightly lower, and you can find almost everything there, from Indomie, to kitchen utensils.

Newcastle Halal Superstore is another great place to get your halal groceries. The size of the store does justice to its name because it is indeed a huge chain. Apart from fresh meat, you can also find the most genuine South Asian snacks, like Kurkure, as well as everyone's all-time favorite - Middle Eastern Baklawass. There are a plethora of halal stores in Fehnam, but don't get distracted, because Newcastle Halal Superstore has virtually everything you would be looking for. 

Though it requires extra effort to find halal food, there are plenty of supermarkets, restaurants, and even products, all over Newcastle that provide halal (look out for vegan and vegetarian as well!) options. Ultimately, this city is as friendly as its people with its halal options, and in addition to the supportive communities around the university, you'll soon miss the versatility and comfort of halal foods in Newcastle once you leave.