Awaze Halal

What is Awaze Halal? Operating out of 8 Howard Street in North St. James Town, Awaze Halal is a dual-concept butcher counter and East African street grill run by veteran chef Ahmed Keysel. The modest interior functions primarily as a working meat market, while outside on the sidewalk, seasoned cuts cook over wood fire and charcoal throughout the year. With virtually no indoor seating, the establishment operates predominantly as a fast-paced takeout hub dedicated to smoke-kissed halal meats.

Awaze Halal Menu & What to Order Fire-roasted meats take center stage here, led by the signature wood-fire BBQ chicken served with aromatic spiced rice, dressed salad, and fiery house chili sauce. The charbroiled lamb chops and tender beef tibs paired with injera highlight the shop's premium, in-house butchered halal cuts. For a handheld option, the crusty baguette steak sandwich loaded with sliced beef, onions, and garlic-mushroom sauce is a local favorite, especially alongside crisp vegetarian samosas.

Know Before You Go Awaze Halal is entirely walk-in counter service with no table reservations, so plan for a 10-to-15 minute wait while proteins are grilled over live coals to order. The shop is situated just steps from Sherbourne subway station, which is the easiest way to arrive since Howard Street parking is very restricted. Doors are open Monday through Saturday from 10:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., with the shop closed on Sundays.