The sizzle of a hot griddle, the aroma of spices wafting through the air, and the steady hum of a line forming under the glow of streetlights — these are some of the delightful experiences of New York street food. In New York City, a city well-known for its abundance of food carts, one dish reigns supreme: chicken over rice. Topped with tangy white sauce and a drizzle of fiery hot sauce, chicken over rice is more than just a tasty meal; it’s a cultural moment served in a clamshell container.
Halal food carts are more than just a quick bite – they are a culinary experience that attracts diverse communities. From taxi drivers grabbing a midnight meal to office workers looking for a filling lunch, the halal cart scene caters to everyone. Yet few pause to consider the rich history and cultural significance behind these heaping plates of meat and rice.
The story of halal street food in America is one of immigration and adaptation. Brought by Middle Eastern and South Asian immigrants in search of opportunity, the halal food cart became a symbol of the American Dream. At its core, chicken over rice is a simple enough meal: rice, seasoned chicken, assorted vegetables, all covered under a sheet of white sauce. Still, each aspect of the cart is executed perfectly. Each cart owner prepares each component slightly differently, creating subtle variations that lead to personal preferences and sometimes fierce loyalty among their customers. For example, the Shawarma Bay food truck has developed a following on social media, with lines wrapping around the block for the Afghan-inspired halal food. Instead of lamb, the food cart uses beef in their combo and shawarma platters over rice, which slightly alters the flavor profile. They have also secured their place as one of the most popular halal spots on 6th Avenue — with other halal giants like Halal Guys — thanks to their high-quality ingredients and crispy french fries found in their halal platters.
Despite being less popular, chicken and lamb over rice are able to compete with convenient food staples like pizza or burgers. First, they strike a perfect balance between flavor and nutrition. They use fresher ingredients, offering a more wholesome and balanced meal compared to the often greasy and carb-heavy alternatives like pizza or burgers.
Second, the portion sizes are unbeatable for the price. In Midtown New York City, a cheeseburger and fries at Shake Shack costs about $15. In comparison, a large chicken over rice platter at Halal Guys with fresh vegetables and sauce is $11. Halal carts provide generous servings that are both filling and affordable, making them a great value for students, workers, or anyone on a budget.
Another advantage of halal is its freshness of ingredients. Many halal carts prepare their food on-site, grilling chicken and cooking rice as orders come in. This immediacy beats the reheated feel of fast-food burgers and pizzas. The inclusion of fresh vegetables like lettuce and tomatoes also adds a refreshing element that’s often missing from other fast foods.
In early December 2024, I first went to the Shawarma Bay food truck right by Radio City, where I was greeted by a long line of people who were happy to spend twenty minutes in the cold for a chicken over rice platter. When I got to the front, I was given the option of chicken, beef, or a mix of both. After making my selection, I was handed a ticket and waited in a second line off to the side, where I was supposed to wait for my food. After a couple of minutes, the number on my ticket was called, and I got to choose my sauces. I went with extra white sauce, which is a yogurt-based sauce that offsets the greasiness of the meat and fries. I also tried both the green and red hot sauces, which contain various peppers and spices. The red sauce is spicier, but its yogurt base offsets the spice. The green sauce, on the other hand, is less spicy and more aromatic. The strong cilantro flavor stands out in the green sauce, and it complements the savory meats and fresh vegetables. Shawarma Bay uses a variety of vegetables not often seen elsewhere in their side salad, but what stood out to me was the sumac onion that added even more depth to the plate. The parsley-sumac blend took the flavor palate to a whole new level, and the cucumber brought a much-needed freshness and crunch.
Halal carts also cater to diverse dietary preferences and restrictions. The meals are typically halal-certified, meaning that they follow the rules for food preparation within Islam. Still, most vendors are willing to customize orders, such as swapping the chicken for a vegetarian option. When Aarav Dugar ’25 was asked about eating food from the halal trucks as a vegetarian, he said, “Falafel is a great option for me, and its seasonings make it a great, tasty alternative.”
Finally, the convenience of halal carts — found on busy corners and open late — makes them an ideal choice for city dwellers looking for a quick meal.
In the bustling streets of New York City, the proprieters of Halal carts found an audience hungry for convenient, flavorful meals. Early food carts sold items like hot dogs or pretzels, but the introduction of halal options provided something unique. Halal food followed the dietary laws outlined in Islamic tradition, which not only catered to Muslim immigrants but also attracted a broader audience intrigued by the vibrant spices and hearty portions. Over time, the carts evolved, shifting from traditional shawarma or kebabs to the now-iconic chicken over rice. As the halal street food movement gained momentum, it began to adapt and change, reflecting the melting pot of New York City itself. What started as a niche offering quickly became a staple for people from all walks of life.
Cart owners, many of whom had entrepreneurial backgrounds, understand the importance of versatility. Their experimentation with flavors and sauces created unique profiles that stand out in a competitive market. Some introduce fusion elements, such as incorporating Mexican or Caribbean-inspired seasonings, while others keep their recipes rooted firmly in traditional techniques. Beyond the food itself, halal carts have become cultural landmarks in their own right. Over the years, halal food has come to symbolize hard work and resilience. Many of the cart owners work long hours in harsh weather conditions, yet their dedication creates something far greater than the sum of its parts. For regular customers, visiting their favorite cart is more than a transaction — it’s a ritual. The familiar faces behind the counter, the cheerful banter, and the comforting flavors form a sense of community in the otherwise fast-paced, often impersonal city environment. Lukas Tsao ’25 said, “I’ve gotten to know the guys behind the counter at my favorite halal truck, and they know me as a regular.” These carts serve as bridges, connecting people of different backgrounds through shared experiences and a mutual appreciation for good food.
Today, halal street food continues to thrive and evolve, reflecting the ever-changing dynamics of urban life. In addition to the classic chicken over rice, newer offerings like falafel, kofta, and other vegetarian-friendly options are expanding the menu, catering to shifting dietary preferences. Social media has amplified the reach of halal food carts, turning some into viral sensations. Platforms like Instagram and TikTok showcase the artistry of the platters, from the vibrant colors of the ingredients to the perfect drizzle of sauce. For many immigrants, these carts remain a way to achieve their version of the American dream, proving that food is not just sustenance but a powerful cultural and economic force.
Halal street food is no longer just a niche option for late-night cravings — it has become a cornerstone of New York City’s food identity. Each bite tells a story, not just of its ingredients but of the people who brought it to life and the communities it continues to nourish.
Despite being less popular, chicken and lamb over rice are able to compete with convenient food staples like pizza or burgers. Their fresh ingredients, flavorful sauces, and filling meats make them a favorite for New Yorkers from all walks of life.