Melbourne is home to an incredibly diverse population of people. With 140 cultures across the city, many represented by a vibrant international student community, it is no surprise that those living a halal lifestyle have more dining options than ever.
Whether you’re interested in exploring the south of the city, where one of the earliest recorded Islamic festivals in Australia took place in 1884; or winding your way through the northern suburbs, where you’ll find the brilliantly curated Islamic Museum of Australia, we have you covered with our Halal guide to Melbourne.
Restaurants
A nourishing bowl of Gado-gado and a comforting Halal Snack Pack (HSP); while these dishes may feel worlds apart, they have one thing in common–they can be found amongst the many halal restaurants in Melbourne.
Moroccan Soup Bar
Cuisine: Middle Eastern, Vegetarian
Where: North Melbourne
The Moroccan Soup Bar is an icon of the Melbourne eating scene. Hana Assafiri opened this relaxed venue back in 1998 and continues to operate on the principles of community and open hospitality to this day. The famous Chickpea Bake is a must-try.
Bowltiful
Cuisine: Chinese
Where: Melbourne CBD
If there is one halal restaurant in the Melbourne CBD you try, then let it be here. Hearty bowls of broth and fresh, chewy noodles are served in a lively setting. There are two locations in the CBD – one on Elizabeth Street and the other on Swanston Street.
Roti Bar
Cuisine: Malaysian
Where: Melbourne CBD
Nestled away on Little Collins Street, Roti Bar is a firm favourite of international students in Melbourne. The meals here are generous, affordable and delicious. Don’t worry too much about the line out front, it tends to move quickly!
If you’re hungry for more, Zabihah is a fantastic resource for exploring all halal options. With over 500 restaurants in their Melbourne database, there is something for everyone.
Cafés and takeaway
Melbourne is the beating heart of cafe culture in Australia; as the weekend calls, be ready to BRUNCH. If you need a post-study snack late at night, there are some very tasty options you should know about too.
Advieh
Cuisine: Modern Australian, Middle Eastern
Where: Seddon
Advieh transforms the brunch classics by giving them a flavourful twist; think avocado on toast with a dollop of house-made harissa, or scrambled eggs and Turkish sausage.
A1 Bakery
Cuisine: Lebanese
Where: Various Locations
A1 Bakery holds icon status amongst Melbourne’s halal food scene. This is the place to come on a Saturday morning to indulge in a smorgasbord of salads, dips, pies and pastries. You can check out all their locations here.
Royal Stacks
Cuisine: American
Where: Brunswick
Dreaming of takeaway? It’s hard to go past Royal Stacks. Currently, only the Brunswick store offers a full-halal menu, but if you’re interested in trying another location, it may be worth calling ahead to learn more. You can find a full list of venues here.
Grocery stores and markets
Both Coles and Woolworths stock a wide range of halal-certified products in their stores; you can find brands like Fettayleh Foods there. Halal Food also has an excellent database to help identify products available in Australia.
Queen Victoria Market
Where: Melbourne CBD
The Queen Victoria Market has been serving Melbournians fresh produce for over 140 years! Inside, you’ll find an array of vendors such as the Corner Chicken Shop and Market Kebab Cafe selling halal-certified products.
Eastern Halal Butcher
Where: Oakleigh
If you’re a student at Monash University in Clayton, Eastern Halal Butcher is nearby on the Huntingdale Road shopping strip. They also provide services such as Qurban during Eid al-Adha.
Festivals and events
It can feel like events and festivals come and go at a dizzying speed in Melbourne. These are our top picks for finding halal food across the city.
Halal Food Carnival 2024
When: Sunday 13th October 2024
Where: Epping Memorial Hall
The Halal Food Carnival returns in October to showcase many international cuisines. Self-described as “Australia’s greatest halal foodie experience”, this will be one event to take your time with and explore–they’re anticipating over 100 stalls!
South Melbourne Market
Where: South Melbourne
There’s a reason this place is insanely popular—the variety is astounding. Vendors such as Market Borek, Köy Gözleme, Agathé Pâtisserie and Cannoleria serve up halal creations every week for thousands of visitors. If you’re unsure about which products are halal, ask one of the staff behind the counter to help you out.
