Finding Halal Delights in the Heart of Seoul
Seoul, the bustling capital of South Korea, is a vibrant metropolis with a vibrant culinary scene. While the city is widely known for its traditional Korean cuisine, finding halal-certified restaurants can be a challenge for Muslim travelers. To cater to the growing demand for halal food among tourists and residents alike, an increasing number of halal-friendly establishments have emerged in Seoul in recent years.
1. Seoul Central Mosque Food Court
The Seoul Central Mosque, located in the Itaewon district, is a hub for Muslim travelers seeking a convenient and halal dining option. The mosque’s food court offers a wide variety of cuisines, including Korean, Pakistani, Afghan, and Arabic dishes. With affordable prices and a diverse menu, it is a popular choice for both locals and tourists.
2. Hwangso Kalguksu
For a taste of authentic Korean cuisine, Hwangso Kalguksu in the Myeongdong neighborhood is a must-visit. The restaurant specializes in kalguksu, a type of Korean noodle soup made with wheat flour dough. Hwangso Kalguksu uses only halal-certified ingredients and offers a flavorful broth that will tantalize your taste buds.
3. The Halal Guys
The Halal Guys, a New York-based food chain, has gained popularity in Seoul with its halal-certified halal platters and wraps. Known for its generous portions and affordable prices, this casual eatery is perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. The chicken over rice and the gyro platter are popular choices among diners.
4. Hawa
Hawa is a modern and elegant restaurant in the Gangnam district that offers a fusion of Korean and Middle Eastern cuisine. With its chic ambiance and attentive service, Hawa is a great option for special occasions or a romantic dinner. The menu features a wide variety of dishes, including Korean barbecue, Arabic mezze platters, and flavorful curries.
5. Bakri Indian Restaurant
Bakri Indian Restaurant is a popular choice among Indian food lovers in Seoul. Located in the Itaewon district, the restaurant serves a wide range of North Indian dishes, including tandoori chicken, butter chicken, and aloo gobi. The use of fresh ingredients and authentic spices ensures a delicious and satisfying meal.
6. Islam Shawarma
Islam Shawarma is a small but popular shawarma joint in the Hongdae district. The restaurant offers a variety of shawarma wraps, including chicken, beef, and falafel, all prepared halal-style. The generous portions and affordable prices make it a favorite among students and budget-conscious travelers.
7. Little India
Little India in the Gwanghwamun district is a small but vibrant neighborhood home to several halal-friendly restaurants. One of the most popular is the Indian Kitchen, which serves a wide range of Indian dishes, including curries, biryani, and tandoori specialties. The restaurant is known for its authentic flavors and affordable prices.
8. Gangnam Madang
Gangnam Madang is a large food court located in the Gangnam district. Among the many stalls offering Korean and international cuisine, there are several halal-certified options. One of the most popular is the Turkey House, which serves halal-certified Turkish kebabs, sandwiches, and salads.
9. Turkish & Kurdish Restaurant
The Turkish & Kurdish Restaurant in the Itaewon district offers a taste of both Turkish and Kurdish cuisine. The menu features a variety of grilled meats, kebabs, and stews, all prepared halal-style. The restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and friendly atmosphere.
10. Halal Restaurant Ihsan
Halal Restaurant Ihsan in the Hongdae district is a small and cozy eatery that serves a variety of halal-certified dishes, including Korean, Arabic, and Western cuisine. The restaurant is known for its friendly staff and affordable prices, making it a great option for budget-conscious travelers.
Tips for Finding Halal Food in Seoul
- Look for restaurants that display the halal certification logo, which is a crescent moon and star symbol.
- Check online resources, such as HalalTrip and Zabihah, for a list of halal-certified restaurants in Seoul.
- Ask your hotel or Airbnb host for recommendations.
- Be cautious when dining at non-halal-certified restaurants, as cross-contamination may occur.
- When in doubt, always ask the restaurant staff if the food is halal.
Conclusion
Seoul has a surprisingly diverse range of halal-friendly dining options, catering to the growing number of Muslim travelers and residents alike. Whether you’re craving traditional Korean cuisine, Middle Eastern flavors, or Western comfort food, you’ll find it all in Seoul. By following these tips and exploring the halal gems listed above, you can enjoy a delicious and hassle-free culinary adventure in the heart of South Korea.
Additional Halal Places to Eat in Seoul
- Al-Sultan Palace: A Turkish restaurant in the Hongdae district that offers a variety of grilled meats, kebabs, and salads.
- Arab Street: A Middle Eastern restaurant in the Itaewon district that serves authentic dishes from the Middle East, including hummus, falafel, and shawarma.
- Golden Spoon: A Korean restaurant in the Myeongdong district that offers halal-certified Korean dishes, including bibimbap, tteokbokki, and Korean barbecue.
- Kebab House: A Turkish restaurant in the Gangnam district that serves a variety of grilled kebabs, wraps, and salads.
- Marhaban Restaurant: A halal-certified restaurant in the Jongno district that offers a wide range of dishes, including Korean, Arabic, and Western cuisine.
Tables
| Restaurant | Cuisine | Location |
|---|---|---|
| Seoul Central Mosque Food Court | Korean, Pakistani, Afghan, Arabic | Itaewon |
| Hwangso Kalguksu | Korean | Myeongdong |
| The Halal Guys | American | Itaewon |
| Hawa | Korean, Middle Eastern | Gangnam |
| Restaurant | Specialty |
|---|---|
| Bakri Indian Restaurant | North Indian cuisine |
| Islam Shawarma | Shawarma wraps |
| Indian Kitchen | Indian cuisine |
| Turkey House | Turkish kebabs |
| Turkish & Kurdish Restaurant | Turkish and Kurdish cuisine |
| Restaurant | Features |
|---|---|
| Gangnam Madang | Large food court with halal-certified options |
| Halal Restaurant Ihsan | Affordable prices, friendly staff |
| Al-Sultan Palace | Grilled meats, kebabs, salads |
| Arab Street | Authentic Middle Eastern dishes |
| Restaurant | Halal Certification |
|---|---|
| Golden Spoon | Halal-certified |
| Kebab House | Halal-certified |
| Marhaban Restaurant | Halal-certified |
| Halal Restaurant Ihsan | Halal-certified |
