4 Arabic Restaurants in London

The multiculturalism of the UK capital is famous, and dominating this tapestry in terms of minority groups are those that identify as Muslim. The last census figures, admittedly from way back in 2001, showed that the city is home to over 40% of the UK’s entire Muslim population. Just as incredible is the fact that well over 12% of London residents are Muslim. This enormous population of more than 600,000 individuals spans communities from all over the Islamic world – the venerable Bengali community whose heartland is so famously represented by the many Bangladeshi halal restaurants down East London’s Brick Lane, plus South Asians from Pakistan, Afghanistan and India; Turkish, Cypriot and Bosnian Muslims; Muslims from numerous Arab countries, including a sizeable Iraqi population; Maghreb peoples including those from Algeria and Egypt, as well as East and West African enclaves. Halal restaurants are integral to these London communities. If you’re not familiar with the city’s Islamic cultural landscape but are keen to find out where London’s halal restaurants call home, all you have to do is point yourself in the right direction!

Did you know that sharing a meal with friends or family is an ancient tradition in the Arab world or one that you can celebrate at Arabic restaurants in central London? The greeting 'Tafathalo' can be translated loosely as 'Do me the honour' and it's an invitation to sit down at the table. Why not extend the invitation to your friends or family and book a table for lunch or dinner at one of the excellent Arabic restaurants in London featured on Quandoo? We've selected some of the capital's best, allowing you to explore menus and book in just a few clicks.

Home to dozens of ethnic enclaves from across East Asia, you'll find numerous oriental restaurants across London. Browse the menus of some of the best Japanese restaurants in town around Soho, or stray a little further and enjoy the delights of Chinatown just a stone's throw away. It's not all about classic Cantonese and Japanese food either. London's oriental restaurants cover a vast array of different cuisines, from authentic Korean to the fabulous fusion flavours of Singapore and Malaysia.

Where exactly will you find halal restaurants in London? It makes sense to search for these diverse Islamic soul food restaurants in the boroughs, districts and neighbourhoods where there are big Muslim populations. A whopping third of residents in the London Boroughs of Tower Hamlets and Newham – the traditional East End – are Muslim. So, go east for some of the finest of London’s halal restaurants.

Arab is a fairly loose term so you could find food from countries in the Maghreb region such as Tunisia, Morocco and Libya or dishes from Mashriq countries like The Lebanon in London's Arabic restaurants. Persian dishes like jewelled rice and Mediterranean-style dishes are also waiting to be discovered. Try Edgeware Road for Lebanese and Turkish restaurants or explore upscale London Arabic restaurants in Soho and Knightsbridge.

London's oriental restaurants are some of the most renowned in Europe, but this cosmopolitan capital is known for much more than its eateries. Enjoy a busy day shopping along Oxford Street or taking in a show in the West End, before strolling on foot to Gerrard Street to sample what's on offer in Chinatown. This particular area is home to all manner of oriental restaurants, meaning you can savour classics like Peking Duck, snack on sushi rolls, or discover something altogether more daring with oriental restaurants specialising in fusion recipes and haute cuisine.

Arab food is diverse and varied and influenced by the flavours of the Mediterranean, the Middle East and even India. Warm spices like turmeric, cinnamon and saffron are widely used so you can expect dishes that are delicately fragrant and beautifully coloured. Many are served with bulgur or couscous and these versatile ingredients are also the basis of other dishes. Order Levantine tabbouleh in Arabic restaurants in London and you'll be served an aromatic blend of bulgur wheat, chopped parsley, mint, onions and tomato dressed with black pepper, lemon and olive oil.

Reach this famous stretch with bilingual Bengali and English street signs from Shoreditch High Street or Aldgate East stations and explore some of the best South Asian diasporic cuisine in the world. Brick Lane is the focal point for one of the oldest migrant communities in London, the British Bangladeshi, who do a brisk business serving up spicy, exotic food from a number of London’s best halal restaurants.

The districts of Stepney, Limehouse, Canary Wharf, Stratford, East and West Ham, plus the main street joining Forest Gate to Upton Park tube stations are replete with halal restaurants that London foodies will love. It’s important to remember that halal cuisine is not necessarily Arabic or Middle Eastern in origin – you can easily find Pakistani, Nepalese and even Chinese food that bears the imprint of global Muslim culinary culture.

With such a variety of oriental restaurants in London, you have the perfect venue to celebrate any occasion. Planning a big family meal? There's no shortage of family-friendly restaurants in London, while the city is also host to a multitude of more refined establishments that are just the ticket for cosy evenings with your other half. With a historic tradition of oriental restaurants dating back hundreds of years, you're in a prime location to savour something truly special in London. Browse restaurant menus online at Quandoo and make your reservation today.

Kebabs and falafel are among the most widely ordered dishes and they appeal to all age groups. Whether you prefer the street food version common in Turkish or Middle Eastern establishments or whether you like them served on a bed of jewelled or plain rice, you're certain of a tasty and satisfying meal. Dishes like baby lamb stuffed with vegetables and herbs are ideal for special occasions, while buffet style food always goes down well. Make your selection from staple items like hummus and grilled halloumi or try manakeesh, the Arab version of pizza. Whatever you choose, avoid disappointment and reserve tables at your favourite Arabic restaurants in London with Quandoo.

While the East End of London may be home to most of the city’s Muslim population, central and west London halal restaurants are worth a booking. There’s a clutch of Lebanese, Persian-Iranian and Malaysian halal restaurants between London’s Regent’s Park (where you’ll find the Central Mosque) and Hyde Park – all within shouting distance of the capital’s famous landmarks.