Al Hilal Meat Shop and Middle Eastern Cuisine — Restaurant in Halifax

I had a generally good experience here. We called in advance, ordered and picked up promptly. I've never traveled to the middle east so I don't have a comparison of what "good" is, or what true authentic is. However, spending most of my life in Toronto, I've had my fair share of Middle Eastern cuisine, and a range of kebabs in the region.

I got here around noon, and wow, for a small "hole in the wall" type of place, it was packed! I loved it! For me, usually a good sign if you see local school kids buying lunch - tells me they're affordable as well.

It felt family run and authentic, so if that's what you're going for, I don't think you can go wrong. The small market/grocer vibe was also great! There wasn't someone at the cash when I walked in, so I had no idea the etiquette of the store - no signage, etc. I paid by cash, but they took debit and credit as well from what I could see.

The chicken reminded me more of a Pakistani dairy marinated skewer - something about the texture of the meat. However, it wasn't evenly like that on all the skewers, some were not as "overly" (mushy meat texture) marinated, so they seemed fine and more of what I would expect.

The beef kebabs were a bit dry, so depending on what you like, you may want to make sure you pick up some of the garlic sauce as well. However, they were tasty, and unlike some recent pictures, definitely were not on the raw side of things. The taste and texture reminded me more of what I'd find in an Iranian kebab vs an Indian/Afghani/Pakistani kebab.

For me, I loved that there's some obvious regional specificity to these kebabs - not sure I saw any flags or anything that would've helped me know for sure. My apologies to the owners for not asking.

I ordered the mixed kebab (1kg) and rice, and I will say the portion size was fantastic! You get some pickled veggies, and a piece of naan on both the top and bottom to help with moisture management, and gives you a little extra filler. The rice was sub par, just dry and under-cooked - it was the least acceptable part of the meal. I tried re-steaming it as well as microwaving it with water sprinkled on top, but no dice. Maybe it was just old and beyond saving, not sure. That's the only reason I wouldn't give them a 5 star.

Value was great, authentic, and how can you complain when they're so affordable!?! Keep up...

Sharing my experience of today's visit at Al-Hilal Meat Shop herring Cove Rd. I called before going to inquire if beef is available. The guy confirmed beef is available. When we went there, after saying salam i asked about beef, the guy rudely replied, "yes we have. Do you want". I understood his behaviour but still kept myself calm and told him my order. When he was preparing meet with anger on his face, i asked him calmly, can you do additional ground beef? Again, this guy disrespectfully and angrily replied, "yes we have. Tell me at once". This was the moment i also lost my senes and i asked, "why are you angry and why are you speaking like this". He replied angrily and disrespectfully again, "because i am so busy". I told him, i am also busy, no one is free and i came here to buy from you. If you dont want to sell, no problem to me". Then this guy went little down and apologized for his behaviour and said, "because i am alone working here". My question to Al-Hilal Meat Shop Management, if you can't manage your employees and business, why you dont hire more employees to avoid these unwanted arguments? Also, i have faced this seceral times, when i call before going, they say "yes available". And when we reach there, they say "sorry not available". Al-Hilal Meat Shop management, no one is sitting free and also, you need to maintain good standards so people can go with satisfaction. My apologize, if i was harsh in my comment but really, this is something you need...

An Exceptional Culinary and Cultural Experience

This Middle Eastern restaurant and butcher shop ( Al-Hilal Meat Shop ) is truly a gem. From the moment you walk in, you're greeted with warmth and hospitality that immediately sets the tone for an exceptional experience. The food is nothing short of outstanding—rich in flavour, prepared with obvious care, and consistently high in quality. Whether it's the perfectly seasoned kebabs, the melt-in-your-mouth shawarma, or the delicious other menu items, every dish reflects the pride and effort the team puts into their craft.

Not only is the cuisine top-tier, but the value for your money is unbeatable. Generous portions, reasonable prices, and impeccable quality make this spot a standout for both middle eastern take out cuisine and picking up fresh cuts from the butcher counter.

One thing that truly stands out is the work ethic of the staff. You can tell that behind every meal is a team that pours hours of hard work and dedication into delivering excellence. Watching them in action is a reminder of the heart and hustle that fuels great food.

As for some of the mixed reviews out there: it’s worth remembering that even the best can’t please everyone. Taste is personal, and expectations vary—but judging by the steady stream of loyal customers and smiling faces, they’re clearly doing things right.

Best Middle Eastern food around, hands down. Amazing service. Wonderful people. Can’t recommend it...