It’s never a secret that New York City has been a melting pot of cultures, cuisine, and experiences, including for Muslim travelers. Islam is the third most practiced religion in New York City, after Christianity and Judaism. So, if you are looking to explore the Big Apple with a plethora of Muslim areas, the city has endless options to step into. NYC features five core Muslim-friendly areas you can visit; The Bronx, Brooklyn, Manhattan, Queens, and Staten Island. From the exciting things to do, culinary delights, and spiritual spots, check out these halal guides to New York City!

The Bronx, the northernmost borough of New York City, is a tapestry of culture, history, and community spirit, including the Muslim ones. Known for being the birthplace of hip-hop, this diverse borough offers a unique blend of urban energy, green spaces, and a rich tapestry of cultural institutions. With a population of over 1.4 million people, The Bronx boasts a multicultural mosaic, where languages from around the globe fill the air, and culinary delights from every corner of the world can be tasted.

First opened in 1899, this Bronx Zoo is one of America's largest zoos, offering an exceptional wildlife experience in the heart of New York City. Spanning 265 acres, the zoo is home to more than 4,000 animals from around the world, including exotic and endangered species. From the lush African Plains to the dense jungles of the Congo Gorilla Forest, you get to explore a variety of habitats. Interactive exhibits, engaging tours, and seasonal events make the Bronx Zoo a must-visit destination for families and tourists alike.

First established in 1999, the spiritual center has been around for the local Muslim community and those who are willing to learn more about Islam. Not only a place for daily prayers, you can also find spiritual guidance here from Islamic education, marriage counseling, memorial services, and community events during summer and Ramadan.

A fan of a baseball game? Consider taking a day tour in Yankees Stadium. The fascinating tour offers an exclusive behind-the-scenes look at one of the most iconic sports venues in the world. Home to the New York Yankees, this stadium is not just a place for baseball games; it’s a historical landmark filled with rich history and memorable moments.

This eatery is well-known for its generous portions, reasonable prices, and friendly service. Once you're here, you will find delectable Mediterranean and Middle Eastern favorites, including mouthwatering shawarma, juicy kebabs, and flavorful fries. Each dish is prepared with high-quality, halal-certified ingredients, ensuring that you can enjoy not only tasty but also ethically sourced meals.

Bismillah Habibi Halal Food Truck is a gem in The Bronx, offering a taste of authentic halal street food. Known for its vibrant flavors and hearty servings, this food truck has been local and tourists' favorite. Ranging from beef shish kebab sticks, falafel with white sauce, and a range of vegetarian options, you can savor the cuisne all with infused traditional spices and herbs.

This restaurant offers blend of modern flavors with Middle Eastern culinary delight to create a menu that's both diverse and delicious. You can indulge in a range of dishes, from savory gyros, and tender kebabs to flavorful steak sandwiches, all made with halal-certified meats.

Family International Market is a grocery store located on Middletown Road, The Bronx, known for its wide selection of international foods and ingredients. Catering especially to the diverse communities within the borough, this market offers an array of products from around the world, including African, Caribbean, Latin American, and South Asian cuisines. Whether you're looking for exotic spices to enhance your cooking, halal meats, fresh produce, or international snacks, Family International Market provides a one-stop shopping experience.

Al-Meraj Halal Meat and Grocery Market is a cornerstone of the Muslim community in The Bronx, offering a wide range of halal-certified meats and groceries. Specializing in high-quality, fresh halal meats, this market ensures that all products adhere to strict halal standards.

Also known as the Annasr Mosque, the Bronx Islamic Cultural Center is located on Tremont Ave, Bronx. This community center has a mosque where African Muslims usually pray at. As soon as you walk into the mosque, you will be greeted by a friendly and cozy atmosphere. If this is your first time here, don't worry, the locals will be happy to help you. Otherwise, the mosque is a good place to visit and to get to know or meet the youth and learn different languages and cultures.

For a peaceful ambiance, head to Anjuman Hefazatul Islam. Beyond providing a spiritual spot to pray, the mosque also hosts educational and social events provided to local Muslim and neighbors. You can also find essential amenities from new comer, like a parking area, private and serene areas to worship, and separate children's area. Also, all ethnic are welcome here!

Address: 365 E 198th St, Bronx, NY 10458, United States.

Brooklyn is the most populous borough, with a diverse population. Stretching across 71 square miles, Brooklyn is home to a variety of neighborhoods, including Muslim community areas, each with its own unique character and charm. Featuring its blend of cultural diversity, artistic expression, and historical significance, Brooklyn provides a microcosm of the broader New York City experience, making it a must-visit destination for you once you’re in NYC.

Located on the boardwalk of Coney Island, The New York Aquarium is the oldest continuously operating aquarium in the United States. It's a fascinating world of marine life, offering visitors an immersive experience of the mysteries of the ocean. The aquarium is home to over 266 species of aquatic wildlife, including sharks, sea turtles, penguins, and coral reef fish. The Ocean Wonders: Sharks! exhibit is a highlight featuring a coral reef tunnel that allows you to walk through and observe sharks swimming overhead.

Spanning 85 acres along Brooklyn's East River shoreline, Brooklyn Bridge Park offers views of the Manhattan skyline and the iconic Brooklyn Bridge. This waterfront park is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with expansive lawns, playgrounds, sports fields and a waterfront pier.

One of the best halal foods in Brooklyn is Williamsburg Halal Food. Nestled in Bedford Ave, this eatery serves Middle Eastern cuisine, ranging from rice with lamb creations, gyros, to kebab and hot dogs.

Located in a bustling area of Liberty Ave, this restaurant prides itself on serving up a wide array of grilled specialties, including mouthwatering lamb chops, juicy burgers, and succulent chicken skewers.

For those looking to prepare their own halal meals or seeking specialty grocery items, Liberty Super Market & Halal Meat is a one-stop-shop. Open for 24 hours, this supermarket offers an extensive selection of halal meats, fresh produce, and a variety of international food items.

This grocery store caters to a diverse clientele, offering a wide range of halal meats, from beef and lamb to poultry, all sourced from trusted suppliers. In addition to the butcher counter, Zaitoon features an assortment of pantry staples, fresh vegetables, and unique spices, making it a favorite among those who enjoy exploring different cuisines while adhering to halal dietary laws.

The Powers Street Mosque, also known as Masjid Al-Farooq, is a cornerstone of the Muslim community in Brooklyn. This mosque has served as a spiritual home for believers for many years, offering daily prayers, Friday congregational prayers (Jumu'ah), and educational programs.

Located in the Fulton Street neighborhood, Masjid-At-Taqwa is well-known for its strong community presence and leadership in promoting Islamic values. The mosque offers a comprehensive range of services, including five daily prayers, Jumu'ah prayers, and various educational and outreach programs.

Manhattan, often considered the heart and soul of New York City, is an island borough known for its iconic skyline, bustling streets, and as a global cultural, financial, and media capital. Spanning a relatively small area of 22.82 square miles, it is the smallest yet most highly populated of the five areas in NYC. So, if you're here for a halal vacation, check out this ultimate guide to Muslim-friendly places you can visit!

A serene spot nestled within the lush expanses of Central Park, the Central Park Zoo is a charming and compact zoo that brings a slice of the wild into the heart of Manhattan. This well-designed space is home to a diverse collection of animals from tropical, temperate, and polar zones around the world. You can marvel at snow leopards, sea lions, red pandas, and penguins, among other species.

One of Muslim community spots you can explore is the Islamic Cultural Center Riverside Drive. Architecturally, the center stands out with its modern design infused with traditional Islamic elements, creating a space that is both visually striking and deeply spiritual. The center conducts regular prayer services, educational classes, and community outreach programs, making it a vital institution in Manhattan's cultural and religious landscape.

Sharif's Famous serves a variety of comforting Middle Eastern dishes. From hearty kebabs to rich curries, each dish is prepared with a focus on authenticity and flavor, making it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for halal dining options in Manhattan.

Featuring the outdoor and lively ambiance of Manhattan, Adel's Famous Halal Food has garnered a loyal following for its falafel, gyro sandwiches, and shawarma platters, all served by fresh and rich, nuanced spices that enliven each bite. This eatery is, of course, certified halal!

Fifth Avenue has long been associated with luxury and style. Stretching from Washington Square Park in Greenwich Village to 143rd Street in Harlem, this iconic avenue is most famous for the section between 49th and 60th Streets, which is home to some of the world's most famous department stores. Not only are there luxury brands, but you can also find plenty of authentic halal Turkish food and pastries.

This market provides a wide selection of halal meats, fresh produce, and imported goods, including spices, sweets, and pantry staples essential for Middle Eastern cuisine. The friendly staff and the authentic atmosphere make shopping at Al Dar Halal Market a genuine cultural experience.

The Islamic Society of Mid-Manhattan serves as a spiritual sanctuary in the bustling heart of the city. Not only does it act as a prayer mosque, but its central location also makes it easily accessible for worshippers living in or visiting Manhattan, providing a peaceful place for reflection and connection within the fast-paced urban environment.

Open for 24 hours, Daily Prayer Times NYC provides a setting for prayers, welcoming visitors from all walks of life. You are welcome to attend regular Islamic events and daily pray here.

Queens, the largest in terms of area and the second-most populous of the five boroughs of New York City serves as a fascinating microcosm of the world. First founded in 1683, Queens has evolved into a bustling urban area, known for its diversity. This borough is home to approximately 2.3 million residents, with a cultural tapestry that is reflected in the myriad languages spoken and the international cuisines available.

Located in the Jackson Heights neighborhood, Little India is a diverse neighbourhood that showcases the rich cultural traditions and culinary delights of South Asia. You are welcome to explore shops selling traditional clothing, spices and jewelry, and enjoy authentic Indian, Pakistani and Bangladeshi cuisine at local restaurants.

Established by the Japanese-American artist Isamu Noguchi, this museum and sculpture garden in Long Island City is dedicated to the artist's life and work. The Noguchi Museum features a collection of sculptures, drawings, models, and designs, offering insights into Noguchi's innovative approach to sculpture and space.

Tucked away in Queens Boulevard, you are welcome to indulge in Middle Eastern cuisine and sandwich dishes here. Open from 9 am to 4 pm daily, you can sample some signature menus like honey garlic lemon pepper wings, cheeseburger, and the lamb platter!

If you're looking for a late-night and halal restaurant near Queens, head to Halal Bros Grill Queens Village. Served fresh from 11am to 2am, be sure to enjoy their chicken gyro and quesadilla! Or if you prefer a quick meal, you can order from their halal-certified fast food menu. From cheeseburgers, chicken kabob, to hot wings and steak, you can enjoy them in just minutes!

Held in Flushing Meadows-Corona Park, the Queens Night Market is a seasonal open-air market that features a diverse array of vendors selling art, merchandise, and food from around the world. It's a vibrant community gathering place where locals and you can explore international cuisines, crafts, and entertainment.

This supermarket in Ozone Park caters to the local Muslim community, offering a wide selection of halal meats, including beef, chicken, and lamb. In addition to fresh halal cuts, the supermarket also stocks a variety of groceries, spices, and products from South Asian and Middle Eastern countries.

Located in Astoria, Masjid Al-Hikmah is a prominent mosque serving the Muslim community in Queens. It is known for its welcoming ambiance and active engagement in community services. The mosque holds regular prayer services, educational programs, and community events, making it a vital spiritual and social hub.

Another comfy and serene pray mosque is Masjid El Ber. The mosque offers daily prayer services, Quranic study circles, and religious guidance, fostering a sense of community and devotion among its attendees.

Last but not least, Staten Island. The southernmost borough of New York City features a unique blend of suburban charm, green spaces, and cultural attractions. With a population of over 470,000 residents, it is the least populated of the five boroughs but boasts the third-largest land area, providing a more relaxed pace of life compared to its urban counterparts. Accessible via the iconic Staten Island Ferry, which offers astonishing scenery of the iconic Statue of Liberty, Ellis Island, and Lower Manhattan, Staten Island provides a mix of historical sites, parks, and beaches, making it a diverse and appealing destination.

The New York Chinese Scholars' Garden is part of the Snug Harbor Cultural Center & Botanical Gardens on Staten Island. Opened in 1999, the garden was meticulously designed based on Ming Dynasty gardens and is one of two authentic outdoor classical Chinese gardens built in the United States. The garden features magnificent architectural structures, rockeries, waterfalls, and koi ponds, all of which are meant to represent a harmony between man and nature, a principle deeply rooted in Chinese philosophy.

Founded in 1936, the Staten Island Zoo occupies an 8-acre site in West New Brighton, offering an intimate yet diverse zoological experience. Although it's known as the "biggest little zoo," it has a particular focus on conservation education and houses over 1,100 animals across various exhibits. The zoo is famous for its collection of rattlesnakes and also hosts the annual Groundhog Day event with Staten Island Chuck, a local celebrity groundhog.

Known for serving authentic and delicious halal dishes inspired by South Asian and Middle Eastern flavors, Naz's menu includes favorites like chicken over rice, gyros, and falafel. The eatery has established itself as a popular choice for halal cuisine on Staten Island

Specializing in fast-food-style offerings with halal certification, Zinger Halal Express is known for its zinger burgers, spicy fried chicken, and a variety of wraps and sides. Living up to its name, the eatery provides quick, tasty, and halal options to the Staten Island community.

As the largest shopping destination on Staten Island, the Staten Island Mall offers a comprehensive retail experience with more than 200 stores, including major department stores, boutique shops, and a food court. Located in the Richmond Ave neighborhood, it has been serving the community since its opening in 1973 and continues to be a key spot for shopping and dining.

Alwatan Halal Market is a specialty grocery store located in Hylan Boulevard, catering to the needs of the halal consumer. The market offers a wide selection of halal meats, fresh produce, and a variety of international groceries, focusing on Middle Eastern and South Asian cuisines. It's a valuable resource for anyone looking to prepare authentic halal meals at home.

Open 24 hours, the Muslim Center of Staten Island is the main place of worship and community gathering for Muslims in and around the neighborhood. The facility center provides a wide range of services, including daily prayers, Islamic education classes, and community outreach programs. Situated on Arthur Kill Road, the Muslim Center strives to foster a welcoming and supportive environment for all its members.

The Al Noorani Islamic Center serves Staten Island's Muslim community by offering a place for worship, Islamic education, and social gatherings. It aims to promote Islamic values and understanding through various programs and activities.

There you go, the Halal guides to New York City and its five borough! Now, ready to plan your trip to NYC? Book your travel through Traveloka for the best deals and a seamless experience! From flight tickets, hotel reservations, and travel activities, to vehicle rentals! Download the app to secure your best trip and find more NYC tourist recommendations!