Halal (an Arabic word meaning “permissible”) refers to foods that meet Islamic dietary guidelines. For many Muslims, these standards are an important part of everyday religious practice, with certification processes that outline specific sourcing and preparation requirements. Halal-grade meats are prepared humanely and hygienically from the source with no alcohol or pork-derived ingredients used in the process.
In Albuquerque, a growing number of restaurants and markets accommodate these dietary needs. From traditional regional specialties to familiar American favorites, these offerings reflect a wide range of cultures and flavors. Ready to dig in? Here is a curated list of local halal eateries across a variety of culinary traditions.
Seemo’s Slices
2300 Central Ave. SE, Unit D
Seemo’s Slices is Albuquerque’s first halal pizzeria, located in the Bricklight District near the University of New Mexico. Those following a halal or kosher diet can enjoy a late night “pepperoni” slice, minus the pork. The dough is handmade from scratch and every personal pizza is made to order, your way.
Seemo’s chicken pesto pizza. Photo courtesy: Chris Jung on Facebook.
KuKri Hot Chicken Tenders and Stackers Burger Co.
505 Central Ave. NW
KuKri doesn’t fry your average chicken tenders. They’re spicy, crispy and best of all — halal! Enjoy your fried chicken however you like it, whether in a fresh garden chicken salad, a California burrito or a Korean BBQ slider. Turn the heat up at KuKri’s 505 Central Food Hall location in the heart of downtown Albuquerque. KuKri’s neighbor at 505 Central Food Hall, Stackers Burger Co., also offers juicy halal burgers. Pass the green chile!
Crispy fried KuKri chicken sandwiches. Photo courtesy: KuKri.
Alquds Mediterranean Grill & Grocery
5555 Montgomery Blvd. NE
At Alquds Mediterranean Grill & Grocery, a quick grocery run can turn into a full-blown shawarma situation. You know what they say about shopping on an empty stomach, so head to the grill first and order a chicken shawarma sandwich. Once satiated, browse the aisles of teas, spices and international foods.
Alquds’ Storefront. Photo courtesy: Alquds Mediterranean Grill & Grocery.
Taste of India
1604 Juan Tabo Blvd. NE
An inconspicuous restaurant on Albuquerque’s Eastside, Taste of India’s buffet brims with saucy entrees, tender meats and fluffy naan. Try the piquant chicken vindaloo with a mango lassi for a delicious contrast of sweet and spicy.
A small plate of buffet bites at Taste of India. Photo courtesy: Michael Schneider on Facebook.
Olympia Cafe
2210 Central Ave. SE
Across from UNM, Olympia Cafe serves up savory Greek offerings like dolmades and gyros with halal options. A veteran of the UNM food scene since opening in 1972, Olympia has been fueling generations of Lobos with comforting, old-world flavor. Enjoy a warm plate of pastitsio (baked macaroni casserole layered with cheese and ground beef) or moussaka (baked eggplant and ground beef) for ultimate mind-body enrichment.
The dining room inside Olympia Cafe. Photo courtesy: Olympia Cafe.
Yasmine’s Cafe
1600 Central Ave. SE
Hot pita bread, baba ghanoush and shawarma are tried-and-true classics at Yasmine’s Cafe, a certified-halal eatery right on Route 66 near Presbyterian Hospital. But have you ever had a Mexiterranean green chile cheeseburger? Yasmine’s transatlantic take on a beloved New Mexican dish swaps buns for a stuffed pita and Thousand Island sauce for tzatziki.
Yasmine’s chicken shawarma wrap. Photo courtesy: Jessica Doll on Facebook.
Sahara Middle Eastern Eatery
2622 Central Ave. NE
A cozy, neon-lit restaurant in the UNM area with award-winning falafel and delightful Turkish lattes to boot. Established in 2007 by Tom Khalil, a Jordanian-American who made a name for himself in New York City before moving to sunny Albuquerque, Sahara quickly became a neighborhood staple. Few things lift the spirit the way a sweet square of knafeh and cardamom coffee can.
A variety of plates at Sahara Middle Eastern Eatery. Photo courtesy: Sahara.
Ramadan Mubarak to those who observe — these culinary gems will be waiting for you!
