Halal food has become one of the most popular culinary traditions in New York City. In my opinion, Halal is the best food NYC has to offer. It’s cheap, tasty, and healthy: $12 for a rice platter at Naz (same price for chicken, lamb, or combo). My go-to dish is combo over rice. The Big Mac in the nearby McDonald’s costs $7.79, and it is nowhere nearly as satiable as the rice platter. The health argument is also easily won by Halal. It should be clear that rice, meat, and vegetables make a good and healthy mix. Halal meat is typically prepared without the processed fillers and additives common in fast food due to religious restrictions. On top of that, the flavor is rich in the rice platters: well-seasoned meat and rice, fresh vegetables, all covered with the famous white sauce – arguably the best part. But if you prefer some spice, you can get the hot sauce as well. Naz also offers toasted pitas that provide a lighter alternative for their rice platters. The soft bread of the gyro complements the savory meat and crisp vegetables.

The staff in Naz Halal is very pleasant and friendly. Usually it’s a man named Ali, whom I got to know. Unlike many local halal carts, Naz Halal offers indoor seating, which is crucial when you want to eat with your friends. My friends introduced me to it a year ago, and I wish I knew about this spot earlier. Also be sure to take advantage of their lunch deal, when you can get a discount and a free soda if you get a rice platter before 3 P.M.