List
By Sarah Bristow
On the hunt for halal-friendly diners in Queensland? You’re not alone. Queensland has become an increasingly multicultural place thanks to its international guests and residents. And as a result of the burgeoning population of Muslims which call the Sunshine State home, or choose to visit on a regular basis, there are a rising number of halal-friendly eateries sitting within Queensland’s major cities.
Here we’ve gathered a collection of the best halal restaurants in Brisbane and the Gold Coast well worth a visit.
Photo by @blackhidesteakhousebne
Wander through the historic halls of the iconic Treasury Casino in Brisbane’s city centre to find Black Hide Steakhouse. The upmarket restaurant is devoted to showcasing the best meat on the market - picture a menu heavily focused on local cuts, including 100% halal certified prime Queensland organic, Wagyu and Angus steaks.
More than 70 vendors celebrating international cuisine descend twice a week on Hamilton, setting up shop in former shipping containers as a part of the popular Eat Street Markets. With everything from Turkish to Asian street food available, halal-friendly food options are guaranteed.
Within easy walk of the South Bank Parklands and kids haven Streets Beach sits Mado. The Turkish eatery is not only home to Anatolian carpets and a resident belly dancer, but it is one of the best halal-friendly restaurants in Brisbane thanks to a menu awash with halal dishes, served alongside the best Turkish pide in town.
Photo by @foodramblings
Dine for a good cause in eclectic West End’s Mu’ooz. The African not-for-profit social enterprise serves up North-East African cuisine, all the while offering experience, training and employment opportunities to African refugees in Brisbane. Picture slow-cooked meats like lamb qulwa and derho zigni, a curry best mopped up with spongy injera pancakes. This halal-friendly restaurant in Brisbane is very deserving of your attention.
It’s authentic Indonesian cuisine galore at Sendok Garpu. It’s here that chef and owner Alicia shares her family recipes, serving menus overflowing with traditional halal-friendly dishes. Think gado-gado, bakso, and nasi ayam among more. But there’s also a breakfast menu for those craving a morning meal instead.
Photo by @shirazgoldcoast
Enjoy a feast Iranian-style at Shiraz in Surfers Paradise. Well-known for its generous portions, this is the kind of place you’ll want to visit with friends and family in tow. Nibble on heaped platters of warm flatbreads, and halal-friendly lamb shank and beef kebabs, topped with saffron-infused rice.
Tuck into traditional fish and chips overlooking Southport’s broadwater at Charis Seafoods. The local seafood specialist neighbours Harley Park, making it ideal fare for a picnic along the water’s edge. Keep an eye on the time - at 1.30pm you can catch an unofficial wildlife show as hungry pelicans gather to be fed by Charis staff.
Photo by @mecca.bah
Enjoy Middle Eastern flavours served in suavely styled interiors with your visit to Mecca Bah. With an outpost in both Brisbane and Broadbeach, the eatery is a popular one, and boasts a halal-friendly menu. On par with the edible offerings is the drinks list, including signature tipple the Turkish Delight Martini.
It’s Indonesian cuisine galore at the casual Bali in Paradise, which serves up halal meats in traditional dishes. Don’t miss out on a chance to nibble on the signature grilled beef ribs, and the spice sensation Shalom chilli sauce.