Credit: Mezze Uyghur Cuisine
Eid al-Fitr is a significant religious observance for Muslims, marking the end of the holy month of Ramadan. During Ramadan, Muslims worldwide fast from dawn to dusk, engage in prayer and lead a more self-disciplined life. As the month comes to a close, Eid al-Fitr brings a sense of joy and celebration to the community.
Muslims represent 2.4% of the population in the Greater Vancouver Area and Burnaby is said to have the highest concentration of Muslims in Metro Vancouver, with the religion being followed by five percent of our residents.
How is Eid al-Fitr celebrated?
Eid al-Fitr is a joyous occasion celebrated by Muslims worldwide. In Burnaby, Canada, the celebration typically involves attending morning prayer at the local mosque, followed by a festive meal with family and friends. Many Burnaby residents will decorate their homes and streets with lights and colourful decorations to mark the occasion.
Halal food is a significant part of the celebration, and families often prepare traditional dishes; traditional dishes prepared for Eid al-Fitr in Burnaby may vary depending on the cultural background of the Muslim community; such as biryani, kebabs, samosas and haleem to name a few.
Some Muslim families in Burnaby also participate in charitable activities during Eid al-Fitr, donating food and clothing to those in need in their local community. Overall, Eid al-Fitr is a time for celebration, reflection, and community spirit for Muslims in Burnaby, across Canada and the world.
Muslims represent 2.4% of the population in the Greater Vancouver Area. Burnaby is said to have the highest concentration of Muslims in Metro Vancouver, with the religion being followed by five percent of our residents.
Savouring the Flavors of Eid Al-Fitr in Burnaby with Halal Food
Halal food refers to food that is prepared according to Islamic dietary laws. These laws dictate which types of food are permissible (halal) and which are prohibited (haram) for Muslims to consume. Halal food is prepared using specific methods, and ingredients such as pork and alcohol are not permitted.
In Burnaby, there are numerous options for halal food, including restaurants and grocery stores. Some of the popular halal food restaurants we have listed below.
Credit: Cayenne Bistro & Grill
1. CAYENNE BISTRO & GRILL
Cayenne Bistro & Grill’s authentic experience comes from a humble background. The owner, Zeimina is inspired by her mother to serve East African and Indian fusion meals. Her passion for cooking takes you back home with dishes such as a wide array of curries, Chicken Serena, and Masala Fish.
Awarded as one of the best restaurants in Burnaby in 2022 by Restaurant Guru, Cayenne Bistro & Grill is a kitchen that everyone adores nonetheless of their diet preference. Not only that, but this Edmonds establishment also serves catering for big events, making it perfect for those looking to serve halal foods at big functions.
Credit: Uyghur Mezze Cuisine
2. MEZZE UYGHUR CUISINE
Known for its spicy and halal delicacies, Uyghur cuisine is unique and incomparable. Mezze Uyghur Cuisine is a restaurant that specializes in Xinjiang cuisine, a region in the Northwestern part of China. What makes it unique is that although it is considered Chinese food by most, it is unlike what people think of typical Chinese takeout.
Heavily influenced by Middle Eastern and Central Asian characteristics, Mezze Uyghur Cuisine serves beef, mutton, or chicken as the main protein, with a taste that incorporates cumin, chili oil, and other spices. Rice, wheat, and noodles also play a huge role in making Uyghur cuisine distinct from other types of Chinese cuisine.
Mezze Uyghur Cuisine is closed on Mondays and only opens at 4:00pm on weekdays. On the weekends and pre-weekend (a.k.a Friday), Mezze Uyghur Cuisine opens earlier at 11:00am.
Credit: Anatolia’s Gate
3. ANATOLIA’S GATE RESTAURANT
Another establishment in the Edmonds neighborhood of Burnaby, Anatolia’s Gate is a Turkish restaurant that promises you an unforgettable experience. Serving a wide variety of authentic Turkish cuisine, Anatolia’s Gate is undoubtedly halal and gluten-free friendly.
Iconic Turkish dishes such as Lavash bread, Doner kebob, and Lamb shish can all be enjoyed here. Get a taste of what Anatolia’s Gate offers with Padishah’s Table. It is a family platter for 4 servings for only $38 per person and kids under 5 free.
Anatolia’s Gate Restaurant is open every day until 11:00pm, with an exception on Fridays and Saturdays at 12:00am. Reservation is encouraged as waiting list is most likely to happen!
Credit: Afghan Turkish Cuisine
4. AFGHAN TURKISH CUISINE
Look no further than the finest Afghan restaurant in town, Afghan Turkish Cuisine! A fusion between the two melting pots of spices, Afghan Turkish Cuisine serves both Afghan and Turkish delicacies. This unique blend of tradition and innovation has created what people are hyping about, dishes such as mantu (Afghan dumplings), kebob, and rice platters are their best sellers.
Afghan Turkish Cuisine can be reached through WhatsApp as part of their dedication to outstanding customer service. Located just right off Burnaby Heights, enjoy their tasty Halal food after a day of shopping along the Heights!
It is open from Monday to Saturday, from 11:30am until 9:00pm.
Credit: Simba’s Grill
5. SIMBA’S GRILL
The diverse taste of East African cuisine is what makes Simba’s Grill stand out on its own. Serving hearty meals such as kebabs, meat on rice, and deep-fried cassava, Simba’s Grill is Burnaby’s heartbeat. Their latest offer is Kuku Choma, a BBQ chicken tender dish marinated in their special sauce on saffron rice.
Located on Boundary Road, Simba’s Grill is not far off from Brentwood- a bustling and newly-developed area in Burnaby. Did you also know that Simba’s Grill hosted the Kenyan ambassador to Canada during their visit to Vancouver? Click on the Instagram icon below if you want to drool just looking at their pictures!