10 Halal NOLA Spots for Islamic New Year
New Orleans is a city celebrated for its rich culinary heritage, blending French, African, Spanish, Creole, and Caribbean influences into bold, unforgettable flavors that has become deeply woven into the fabric of the culture.
But now, new flavors are being added to the cultural loom with a rising number of halal-friendly establishments that cater to the Islamic community of Greater New Orleans. From cozy cafes to elegant eateries, these restaurants provide delicious halal meals that still embody that bold spirit of New Orleans cuisine for this Islamic New Year, taking place from June 26 to 27 this year.
1. Lebanon's Cafe
1500 S. Carrollton Ave., 504-862-6200
lebanonscafe.com
Lebanon's Cafe has been a beloved Uptown spot for over two decades, serving up authentic Middle Eastern and Mediterranean dishes with generous portions of bold, juicy flavors. Whether you're devouring their diverse shawarmas, their rosemary lamb chops, or enjoying their sautéed spinach with shrimp, you'll find each dish thoughtfully prepared with fresh ingredients and authentic spices.
So if you're looking for authentic Mediterranean cuisine in New Orleans that caters to the halal palette, look no further than Lebanon's Cafe.
2. Saj
4126 Magazine St., 504-766-0049
sajnola.com
Saj showcases a fresh take on halal cuisine on Magazine Street, blending traditional flavors with a modern, casual atmosphere that serves all their patrons with the Middle East's beautiful combination of flavor and spices. Their menu ranges from fire-grilled chicken shawarma, vegetables, and kufta to lamb chops and chicken kabob lunch platters for the family.
With Saj's approach and dedication to serving halal cuisine that hits all the right notes, it's the best stop for anyone craving fresh, flavorful dishes made with care and authenticity that contributes to New Orleans' culinary scene.
3. Mona's Cafe
3901 Banks St., 504-482-7743
monas-cafe.foodjoyy.com
Mona's Cafe is that one hidden gem where the food speaks for itself. Mona's Cafe has been serving the community for decades with a menu full of staples such as their beef shawarma, falafel, chicken kebabs, and silky smooth hummus. With generous portions, distinct flavors, and an inviting atmosphere that invites you to sit, eat, and stay a while, this cafe wants you to savor the moment with them.
If you need a reliable halal option that feels more like a fixture of the neighborhood, then Mona's is well worth a visit.
4. Sharwarma On the Go
3720 Magazine St., 504-269-6427
Shawarma On the Go is the spot to go to if you're obsessed with shawarma bursting with flavor and personality. Their menu fuses both traditional Middle Eastern flavors with familiar comfort food from chicken shawarma, gyros, and falafel, as well as options such as Philly-style sandwiches and seafood platters. All sauces for every dish are made in-house, making sure every meal has all the fresh, vibrant flavors that keeps customers coming back.
So if you're just grabbing a quick wrap on the go or settling in for a hearty plate, Shawarma On the Go offers everyone something to satisfy every craving and diet.
5. Attiki Bar & Grill
230 Decatur St., 504-587-3756
Attiki Bar & Grill is a vibrant Mediterranean and Middle Eastern family-owned restaurant that offers delectable cuisine, unique beverages, and lively features that will immerse you in the beautiful world of Mediterranean culture. With a menu filled with options such as their marinated chicken shawarma, hand-cut rack of lamb, Attiki Burger, and fresh Greek salads, the flavors and textures will blend perfectly on your tongue. Guests can enjoy outdoor seating, a refreshing hookah experience with friends, or an evening of live belly-dancing performances every Friday and Saturday night at 10:30 p.m.
So if you need a delicious meal with a memorable experience, then Attiki Bar & Grill will give you a true taste of Mediterranean cuisine and culture.
6. Cleo's
940 Canal St., 504-522-4504
Cleo's might look unassuming from the outside with a storefront that doubles as a convenience shop, but don't let that fool you, this kitchen is turning out some of the satisfying food in the city. Cleo's menu covers everything from lamb platters and falafel wraps to seared sea bass and meze platters stacked with hummus, baba ganoush, and grape leaves. This spot is a staple for late-night eats, whether you're finishing a shift from work or winding down from a night out. You'll be served generously with juicy bites and indulgent portions.
So if you are looking for a halal-friendly spot at any time of day, Cleo's delivers exactly what you're craving.
7. The Simple Greek
419 Carondelet St., 504-307-7482
Sometimes, you just need a quick, simple bite on the go. Luckily, The Simple Greek is ready to cater to those needs. Offering a build-your-own-meal concept, everyone gets to make their bowls or pitas their own way with a selection of proteins, fresh vegetables, spices, and made in-house sauces.
With traditional Mediterranean flavors at the forefront, it's guaranteed that no matter what you slap together, it will be a fresh and hearty meal on the go.
8. Olive
339 Carondelet St., 504-766-9271
Olive is the spot where Mediterranean and Lebanese flavors come alive. The menu is packed with crowd-pleasers such as juicy lamb kebabs, mouthwatering gyros, crispy falafels, and their layered moussakas, all crafted from fresh, scratch-made ingredients.
So if you want a leisurely halal meal with your family and need someplace new, Olive is your perfect escape in the city.
9. Sultan's Shawarma Shack
444 Lapalco Blvd., Gretna, 504-381-5584
shawarmashack.top
If you want to eat like royalty, then Sultan's Shawarma Shack will treat you like royalty with their all halal menu filled to the brim with delicious dishes for this Islamic New Year. Serving dishes such as chicken shawarma wrap, mixed chicken & gyro bowls, lamb & beef gyro subs, and more, they're all bursting with flavor to fill you up.
So if you need some take-out Lebanese cuisine to dig into, the Sultan's Shawarma Shack is ready to serve.
10. 1000 Figs
314 Ponce De Leon St., 504-301-0848
Originally a food truck, 1000 Figs has become the spot for vibrant Mediterranean dining near the Fair Grounds. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, this exceptional restaurant serves spiced chicken platters, cinnamon-scented falafel feasts, and seasonal vegetable meze, just to name a few of their stand-out items.
With its warm ambience and decadent offerings, it's a beloved spot for anyone seeking a taste of the Mediterranean in New Orleans while welcoming halal diets, as well.
