The Muslim festival of Eid, also known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri or Hari Raya Puasa, falls on the 10th month of the Islamic calendar. It celebrates the end of Ramadan (a month of fasting), where Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and partaking in other forms of indulgent behavior, from dawn to dusk. It is also a time for forgiveness and strengthening of bonds among relatives and friends.
The highly anticipated Geylang Serai Hari Raya Bazaar during Ramadan traditionally draws massive crowds each year. This year’s bazaar taking place from April 9 to May 13th via a digital platform, promises to be a celebration of Malay/Muslim culture, heritage and delicious food for all Singaporeans to enjoy.
The organizers are also working with partners, stakeholders and other individuals to curate a variety of online programs that include music, comedy, cooking and fitness videos and fringe activities set to premier daily. For more, check out Facebook pages of vendors selling homemade, mouth-watering Hari Raya snacks and treats.
And when the fasting stops, the feasting begins! No doubt, finding Halal food options that incorporate different flavors and cuisines can be quite a challenge for many Muslim diners. But no more! Singapore is now exploding with a new wave of Halal cafes and restaurants, offering French, Japanese and modern Asian food, complete with excellent service and ambience to entice Muslim and non-Muslim diners.
Positano Risto: Ranked the top Italian restaurant for Halal and authentic pizzas on TripAdvisor, the restaurant has an extensive menu for diners. Hot picks include Positano Super Supreme Calzone, Squid Ink Spaghetti, and Positano Signature Ice Cream Brioche.
Daya Izakaya: Perfect for those craving for a Japanese meal, the menu covers everything from Kushiyaki, grilled meat and vegetables on skewers, to Sashimi. The restaurant also imitates a traditional Japanese Izakaya (a type of informal Japanese bar) with wood furnishings and minimalist accents.
At Daya Izakaya, it’s just like eating in a traditional café. (Photo: Sethlui)
The White Label: This Parisian-inspired cafe serves classic French dishes and pastries to bridge the gap in Singapore’s Halal dining scene. To replace wine used in French cooking, they use Singgang broth to provide the acidity. You can also find fusion dishes like Vol-Au Vent which uses Kuih Pie Tee cups, filled with duck rillettes and pulled beef, and served with Chili Belado (Sambal Chili Sauce).
French cuisine with a Malay twist at The White Label. (Photo: Daniel Food Diary)