Is all food in Iran halal?

Yes, 100% of food in Iran is halal by law. Iran is an Islamic Republic where halal food is mandatory. Pork is completely banned, and alcohol is prohibited. There is no need to verify halal status anywhere in Iran.

What is traditional Persian food?

Persian cuisine features dishes like chelow kebab (rice with grilled meat), ghormeh sabzi (herb stew), tahdig (crispy rice), fesenjan (pomegranate walnut stew), and zereshk polo (barberry rice). Iranian food is known for complex flavors, saffron, and long cooking traditions.

Is there alcohol in Iran?

No, alcohol is strictly prohibited in Iran. The sale, purchase, and consumption of alcohol is illegal with severe penalties. This applies to everyone, including tourists. There are no bars or alcohol-serving establishments.

Halal Food in Iran: Persian Cuisine Guide

Halal food in Iran is absolute—as an Islamic Republic, Iran mandates all food be halal. Pork is banned, alcohol is prohibited, and Islamic dietary law governs the entire food industry. Explore halal certification for more information.

Persian cuisine is one of the world’s great culinary traditions, offering rich and diverse halal dishes.

How Accessible Is Halal Food in Iran?

Halal food is 100% guaranteed:

All food halal: By law
Pork banned: Completely prohibited
Alcohol banned: Illegal
No verification needed: Ever

Traditional Persian Cuisine

Rice dishes:

Chelow kebab: National dish (rice with grilled meat)
Tahdig: Crispy golden rice bottom
Zereshk polo: Barberry rice
Shirin polo: Sweet rice

Stews (Khoresh):

Ghormeh sabzi: Herb stew with meat
Fesenjan: Pomegranate and walnut stew
Gheymeh: Yellow split pea stew

Kebabs:

Koobideh: Minced meat kebab
Barg: Fillet kebab
Joojeh kebab: Chicken kebab
Chenje: Lamb chunks

Appetizers:

Mast-o-khiar: Yogurt with cucumber
Kashk-e bademjan: Eggplant dip
Dolmeh: Stuffed grape leaves

Best Areas for Food

Tehran

Traditional restaurants: Throughout city
Grand Bazaar area: Historic eateries
Modern restaurants: Northern Tehran
Street food: Various locations

Isfahan

Historic restaurants: Near Naqsh-e Jahan Square
Traditional teahouses: Cultural experience
Biryani (Isfahani): Local specialty

Shiraz

Famous for: Faloodeh (vermicelli sorbet)
Traditional cuisine: Persian specialties
Gardens and dining: Beautiful settings

Is Iran a Muslim Country?

Yes, Iran is an Islamic Republic:

99% Muslim: Majority Shia
Islamic law: Governs society
Religious sites: Qom, Mashhad holy cities
Mosques: Beautiful historic architecture
Prayer times: Observed nationwide

Alcohol and Pork Prohibition

Pork: Completely banned

Cannot import
Cannot sell
Does not exist in Iran

Alcohol: Strictly prohibited

Illegal for all
Severe penalties
No exceptions for tourists

Is Iran Safe for Muslims?

Iran is very comfortable for Muslims:

Islamic environment: Prayer, halal, modesty
Holy sites: Imam Reza shrine (Mashhad)
Welcoming: Iranians hospitable
Safe: Despite perceptions, low crime
Visa requirements: Check before travel

Practical Tips

All food halal: Automatic 2 Compare with halal.