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Halal Food in China: A Practical Guide for Muslim Interns

At Sina Careers, we are committed to making your journey in China smooth, enriching, and respectful of your lifestyle! Many Muslim interns ask us whether it's possible to maintain a healthy halal diet in China—and the answer is yes!

This guide will help you navigate the world of halal food in China, from understanding its roots to knowing where to eat and what to try, no matter where you're living or working!

A Brief History of Islam and Halal Cuisine in China

Islam has a long history in China, dating back to the 7th century during the Tang Dynasty. Thanks to centuries of trade via the Silk Road, territorial expansion, and globalization, China is now home to over 20 million Muslims!

Most Chinese Muslims belong to two ethnic groups:

Hui (回族) – Mandarin-speaking Muslims found across China

Uyghurs (维吾尔族) – A Turkic-speaking minority primarily in Xinjiang

With this deep-rooted presence, halal (清真 qīngzhēn) cuisine is not only available in China, it's also an entire branch of local traditional Chinese food!

Halal Food Across China: What to Expect

You’ll be pleased to know that halal restaurants are widely available in nearly every Chinese city, large or small!

Lanzhou Lamian (兰州拉面)

One of the most common halal food options in China is Lanzhou Lamian, or hand-pulled beef noodles. Originating from the Hui Muslim community, this cuisine style offers much more than just noodles: Stir-fried rice, beef or lamb soups, stewed, grilled or skewered meats (lamb, chicken, beef), all of that with flavorful spices!

Pro tip: Traditional Lanzhou Lamian restaurants do not serve alcohol, in respect of Islamic practices. You’re welcome to enjoy a drink else where, but it's always good to be considerate of the culture and not bring alcohol when dining in these establishments!

Uyghur Cuisine: Rich, Flavorful,and Hearty

Xinjiang-style halal food—from the Uyghur community—is another highlight of China’s Muslim culinary landscape. Here are some must-try dishes: Nang (馕) – Traditional Uyghur flat bread, Samsa (烤包子) – Baked meat pastries, Dapanji (大盘鸡) – "BigPlate Chicken," a spicy stew with chicken, potatoes, and peppers, Lamb skewers (羊肉串) – A street food favorite, seasoned with cumin and chili !

In major cities like Xi’an, don’t miss the Muslim Quarter (西安回民街)—a vibrant street food haven. In Beijing, explore Niujie (牛街 - Ox Street), home to some of the oldest mosques and halal restaurants in the country!

Middle Eastern & North African Restaurants

In cosmopolitan cities such as Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Nanjing and Shenzhen, you’ll also find restaurants serving authentic Middle Eastern, Turkish, or North-African halal cuisine. These are great options if you're craving a taste of home or want more variety!

Seafood & Vegetarian Options

Halal options go beyond labeled halal eateries! Seafood and vegetarian dishes are abundant close and far from the sea!

In coastal cities like Qingdao, Shanghai, Shenzhen, and Lianyungang, seafood is fresh and delicious. Even in land cities offer a wide range of sea food, as well as river fish and shellfish dishes!

Don’t overlook vegetarian-friendly Chinese cuisine, which includes: Stir-fried vegetables, Tofu cooked in various way, egg and tomato noodles (a beloved favorite all accross the country!) or steamed buns and dumplings with veggie fillings!

Whether you follow a halal, vegetarian, or pescatarian diet, there’s always something satisfying to eat in China!

Need Help with Dietary Restrictions?

At Sina Careers, we’re here to support you! If you have specific dietary needs, let us know—we’ll guide you toward the best local options and help you feel at home in your new environment!

Questions?

Reach out to us anytime at marketing@sinacareers.com or visit our site to explore internships, blog posts, and cultural tips for living in China!

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Benoist takes care of interns throughout the entire application process and stays available during their internship to provide ongoing support, guidance, and advice for a smooth experience in China.

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