8 Halal Food Options You Won’t Regret in Harbin, China: 5-Star Reviews, No Fluff

Harbin, a city renowned for its stunning ice festivals and Russian architecture, might not immediately spring to mind as a halal food destination. However, beneath the frosty exterior lies a burgeoning halal food scene, catering to the growing number of Muslim travellers. From traditional Uyghur cuisine to modern halal fusion, Harbin offers a surprising array of delectable options that are sure to satisfy every palate and craving.

Also read: Muslim-friendly Travel in China: A Comprehensive Guide to Halal Food and Islamic Sites

1. Da Hong Mei Halal Restaurant at Changchun Street

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For an authentic taste of Northeast Muslim cuisine, head to Da Hong Mei Halal Restaurant on Changchun Street. This beloved local eatery offers a variety of hearty dishes, with popular choices including lamb soup, spicy diced chicken, sautéed sliced beef liver, grilled mutton string, sweet and sour fried beef, and beef Shao-mai. With an average cost of CNY 51 (S$9.44) per person, it's an affordable option for a satisfying meal. The restaurant is open daily from 9:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: No. 101, Changchun Street, Daowai District, Harbin

2. Laorenyi Halal Restaurant at Sunac Mall

Image credit: IslamiChina Travel | Official Website

For a modern take on Chinese Muslim cuisine, Laorenyi Halal Restaurant at Sunac Mall is a great choice. This stylish eatery offers a diverse menu, with popular dishes including sweet and sour fried beef, Shao-mai, steamed dumplings, double-cooked beef strips, Tossed Mung Clear Noodles in Sesame Sauce, and kebabs. With an average cost of CNY 57 (S$10.55) per person, it's a slightly more upscale option, perfect for a special occasion. The restaurant is open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: F3, Sunac Mall, No. 99, Shimao Street, Daowai District, Harbin

3. Emir Xinjiang Restaurant

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For a taste of Xinjiang cuisine, head to Emir Xinjiang Restaurant in Nangang District. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Xinjiang dishes, including lamb kebabs, sautéed spicy chicken with potato, yoghurt, stir-fried beef with naan, baked steamed stuffed bun, and Xinjiang pilaf. With an average cost of CNY 85 (S$15.73) per person, it's a mid-range option for a flavourful meal. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: No. 99-5, Xinyuan Community, Songshan Road, Nangang District, Harbin

4. Qing Zeng Huizu Restaurant

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Qing Zeng Huizu Restaurant, located on North Shijie Dao Street, is another popular choice for local Chinese Muslim cuisine. This eatery offers a variety of traditional dishes, including pie, boiled tripe with sauce, grilled mutton string, sweet and sour fried beef, sautéed tofu skin, and shao-mai. With an average cost of CNY 60 (S$11.10) per person, it's a mid-range option for a satisfying meal. The restaurant is open daily from 11:00 am to 8:00 pm.

Address:  No. 28, North Shijie Dao Street, Daowai District, Harbin

5. Liu Shun Yuan Huizu Restaurant

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For a more upscale dining experience, head to a local Northeastern Muslim restaurant on Gongcheng Street. This restaurant offers a variety of delectable dishes, including lamb chops, grilled mutton string, sweet and sour fried beef, boiled tripe with sauce, Shao-mai, and pie. With an average cost of CNY 78 (S$14.43) per person, it's a great option for a special occasion. The restaurant is open daily from 9:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: No. 8, Gongcheng Street, Daoli District, Harbin

6. Hami Guli Xinjiang Restaurant at Haxi Wanda Plaza

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For another Xinjiang dining experience, head to Hami Guli Xinjiang Restaurant at Haxi Wanda Plaza. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Xinjiang dishes, including sautéed spicy chicken with potato, lamb kebabs, Kazakh potato chips, baked steamed stuffed bun, yoghurt, and stir-fried rice noodles. With an average cost of CNY 73 (S$13.51) per person, it's a mid-range option for a flavorful meal. The restaurant is open daily from 10:00 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: F5, Haxi Wanda Plaza, Nangang District, Harbin

7. Muguang Turkish Restaurant 

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For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine, head to Muguang Turkish Restaurant in Nangang District. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Turkish dishes, including Muguang's characteristic colour, hollow bread, Turkish chicken wrap, Turkish handmade yoghurt, beef cheese pizza, and doner kebab. With an average cost of CNY 143 (S$26.46) per person, it's a more upscale option for a unique dining experience. The restaurant is open daily from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: No. 43, Xuanli Street, Nangang District, Harbi

8. Loulan Restaurant 

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For another taste of Xinjiang cuisine, head to Loulan Restaurant at CapitaMall. This restaurant offers a variety of authentic Xinjiang dishes, including Xinjiang meat naan, Shihezi cold noodles, lamb chops, yoghurt, lamb kebabs, and sautéed spicy chicken with potatoes. With an average cost of CNY 72 (S$13.32) per person, it's a mid-range option for a flavorful meal. The restaurant is open daily from 10:30 am to 9:00 pm.

Address: F5, CapitaMall, Xuefu Road, Nangang District, Harbin

Also read: A 5D4N Guide for Muslim Travellers to Xi’an, China

Who would’ve thought that a city known for its icy wonders would also be a foodie’s paradise? Harbin’s halal scene is low-key fire, offering a diverse range of flavours that will satisfy even the pickiest of eaters. So, the next time you’re planning a trip to Harbin, don’t forget to add these halal eateries to your must-visit list. Your taste buds will thank you!