Whether you’re visiting Orange County for business or leisure, good meals are an integral part of a successful stay.
If you’re looking for halal cuisine, scroll down to find eateries and purveyors in Chapel Hill, Carrboro and Hillsborough. We’ve done our best to verify their halal offerings, but it’s always best to confirm by phone before you head out.
If you’re new to halal, you should try it! But first, read on to learn a little more about this culinary approach.
What is halal?
Halal (or halaal) is an Arabic word in the Islamic religion meaning lawful or permitted. Islam is the world’s second-largest religion, and Muslims are the fastest-growing religious group in the world. There are two groups of Muslims, Sunni and Shia, just as there are many groups within the Christian faith. Though the term halal refers to many aspects of Islamic life, it’s most often referenced when discussing food. According to the American Halal Foundation, to comply with halal standards, meat and poultry must be slaughtered in accordance with Islamic law and by a Muslim who invokes the name of Allah (God) before making the cut. It must be free of any haram (unlawful or unpermitted) substance or ingredient and manufactured and stored with uncontaminated equipment. In general, beef, lamb, venison, goat, chicken and game birds are considered halal when properly prepared.
Why should you try halal protein?
For many people, halal protein is a less problematic and healthier alternative to traditionally prepared products. That’s because halal animals must be well-cared for and well-fed throughout their lives before going to slaughter and are not subjected to growth hormones and antibiotics. The slaughtering ritual is also considered more respectful of and less painful and stressful for the animal. Learn more from the Halal Food Council.
Where to get halal food in Orange County
Farms/Markets
Carrboro Farmer’s Market - 301 W Main Street, Carrboro
Two vendors sell halal meats at the market:
Their halal cuts are also available at the Whole Foods at 81 South Elliott Road in Chapel Hill at the Baldwin’s on-farm store in Caswell County.
The Creamery also sells its halal meats on Saturdays at the Eno River Farmer’s Market at 144 East Margaret Lane, Hillsborough.
Check out other farmer’s markets and agritourism options in Orange County!
Restaurants
There are many eateries in Chapel Hill and Carrboro featuring halal foods on their menus. Phone numbers are provided so you can call to confirm availability before planning your visit.
Known for its award-winning cuisine and service, CholaNad is a contemporary South Indian fine-dining spot serving new takes on classic Tamil dishes.
Dine-in, order online for pick up or delivery, catering, private events.
310 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
(800) 246-5262
This Greek and Mediterranean restaurant caters to diners with dietary restrictions, including vegan and halal.
Dine-in, order online for pick up or delivery, catering.
169 East Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
(919) 240-7622
Though their popular restaurant was destroyed by a fire last year, this beloved local eatery is still operating a busy catering and pickup or delivery business.
454 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
(919) 967-2666
A Himalayan bistro, this restaurant specializes in momos – a dumpling popular in Tibet and Nepal – along with regional side dishes and desserts.
Dine-in, order online for pick up or delivery, catering, private events
110 North Columbia Street, Chapel Hill
(919) 903-9051
Talullas Turkish Restaurant
Talullas is a long-time favorite fine-dining eatery perfect for date night or a group meal because the food is meant to be enjoyed family style.
Dine-in, order online for pick up only, catering, private events
456 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
(919) 933-1177
(800) 862-6325
There are two options for halal food on the Carolina campus, each offering dine-in and online ordering options. These locations make it easy for campus visitors, sports fans and people on campus for UNC medical stays to access appropriate foods:
Chase Dining Hall’s Simply Prepared station serves halal proteins for lunch and dinner. South Campus, 104 Ridge Road, Chapel Hill
Bottom of Lenoir hosts Mediterranean Deli and CholaNad, both of whom offers certified halal proteins. North Campus, 211 Lenoir Drive
Named after its much-lauded chef, Vimala Rajendran, this spot regularly earned accolades for best Indian food.
Dine-in, order online for pick up or delivery, catering, private events
431 West Franklin Street, Chapel Hill
919-929-3833
Did we miss a source of halal food in Chapel Hill, Carrboro or Hillsborough? Email us at info@visitchapelhill.org with the details so we can update this page with new information. Thanks!
(Last image credit: Vimala's Curryblossom Cafe, people dining in the Courtyard)
