The Best Halal Carts in NYC

Parked near Union Square, Adel's stands out for its exceptionally flavorful chicken over rice and homemade sauces. While most carts offer the standard white and hot sauce combo, Adel's has a distinctive green sauce that regulars swear by. The portions are famously generous, often providing enough for two meals.

Located in Queen on Hillside avenue, the original Hamza and Madina cart has been a local favorite for over 20 years. Not to be confused with Madina Halal Cart across the street (also amazing), you can't go wrong with a chicken and rice from here. The flavors are top notch, although sometimes consistency can be up and top.

This Moroccan run halal cart is a local favorite. We tried the chicken over rice, and the chicken was cooked right, flavorful and consistent. This place has a very unique taste compared to other carts, and the owner is incredibly nice.

A Vendy Award winner, Sammy's Halal has built a loyal following around its exceptional quality and consistency. The secret is in their 24-hour marinated chicken and hand-ground spice blends. Their distinctive red sauce has a perfect balance of heat and tanginess that elevates their already excellent platters.

What began as a single cart in Queens has expanded to multiple locations across the city. Shah's is known for generous portions, consistently fresh ingredients, and a sauce bar that lets customers customize their perfect plate. Their chicken is exceptionally juicy, and the falafel is made fresh throughout the day.

A NYC halal cart pioneer with dozens of locations throughout Manhattan, Rafiqi's offers consistently satisfying food at wallet-friendly prices. While perhaps not as distinctive as some specialty carts, they've earned their reputation through reliability and value. Their combo over rice with extra white sauce remains a lunchtime staple.