Hikaru UchidaAccording to the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the number of foreign visitors in October this year exceeded the number in 2019 for the first time since the pandemic. The total number of visitors since January is approximately 19.9 million and is on track to reach its government-set goal of welcoming 20 million visitors this year.
In response to the increase in foreign visitors, various restaurants and cafes have introduced English menus and incorporated Muslim-friendly or halal signs, facilitating customers in making informed choices. While “Muslim-friendly” ensures that food and drinks exclude pork, alcohol, or other ingredients avoided by Muslims (though not guaranteeing strict adherence to halal standards), the “halal” certified sign signifies a meticulous verification process by specialists. Discover three halal restaurants where you can enjoy cuisine without worries.
1. Homemade Udon KINEYA MUGIMARU
The first halal restaurant that welcomes you at the Kansai International Airport (before security), is a cafeteria-style udon shop. All items on the menu, including food and drinks, bear halal certification, ensuring Muslims can relish every choice. Customers pick tempura toppings and sides such as onigiri (rice ball) after ordering their favorite udon noodles from various menus. The cost-effective udon noodles range from JPY400 to JPY700, with tempura priced at only around JPY100, making it an ideal spot to satisfy your appetite or to begin and conclude your stay in Japan.
Click here to see a map.
2. CHIBO Diversity
CHIBO is a more than 45-year-running restaurant specializing in okonomi-yaki and teppan-yaki, with numerous branches worldwide. In 2018, it opened a new location with a Muslim-friendly menu for the first time in Japan as okonomi-yaki chain restaurant. All ingredients and seasonings are halal certified, alleviating concerns about pork and alcohol contamination. “CHIBO yaki” is a must-try signature dish, which features beef and plenty of seafood. The restaurant also provides a prayer space with a carpet and an area for ablution.
Click here to see a map
3. Halal Yakiniku Restaurant ZEROHACHI Namba
For those seeking a place to relish Wagyu beef during their stay in Japan, I recommend this Yakiniku restaurant offering Wagyu beef in both BBQ and shabu-shabu style. All meat varieties served are halal certified, ensuring customers need not worry about their choices. The restaurant serves not only beef, but also lamb, vegetables and seafood. ZEROHACHI Namba emphasizes the commitment to Halal-compliant sauces and salt. Indulge in your meat selection with their two varieties of house-made sauces and an array of original blend salts.
Click here to see a map.
As you embark on a culinary journey through the diverse landscape of Osaka, discover the welcoming embrace of these halal restaurants, each promising a delightful taste of authentic flavors.
