Ultimate Guide to Ramadan Iftar Food in London, Croydon & Purley

Ramadan is a time of reflection, prayer, and community, and Iftar—the meal to break the fast—is a cherished tradition for Muslims worldwide. Whether you’re in London, Croydon, or Purley, finding authentic Iftar food that reminds you of home is essential. From Pakistani and Indian Iftar dishes to the best local Iftar deals, this guide covers everything you need for a fulfilling Ramadan experience.

Traditional Iftar Dishes Loved by Pakistani & Indian Communities

Every region has its own Ramadan Iftar food traditions, but certain dishes remain staples on the table. Whether you prefer homemade meals or enjoy dining at local restaurants, here’s a breakdown of the most popular Iftar dishes.

Pakistani Iftar Dishes

✅ Fruit Chaat – A spiced fruit salad with chaat masala for a refreshing start.
✅ Dahi Baray – Soft lentil dumplings soaked in yogurt, topped with chutneys.
✅ Keema Samosas – Crispy fried pastries filled with spiced minced meat.
✅ Chicken Pakoras – Crunchy chicken fritters, best enjoyed with green chutney.
✅ Chapli Kebab – Juicy, flat meat patties infused with aromatic spices.
✅ Chicken Karahi – A rich, tomato-based chicken curry full of bold flavors.
✅ Peshawari Naan – A soft naan stuffed with nuts and dried fruits.
✅ Sheer Khurma – A creamy vermicelli dessert made with dates and nuts.

Indian Iftar Dishes

✅ Haleem – A slow-cooked lentil and meat stew, perfect for energy after fasting.
✅ Keema Samosas – Another favorite variation of spiced minced meat pastries.
✅ Chicken Pakoras – A crispy delight, usually served with tamarind chutney.
✅ Vegetable Cutlets – Crunchy, spiced patties made with potatoes and vegetables.
✅ Chicken Tikka – Marinated and grilled to perfection with tandoori spices.
✅ Butter Chicken – A creamy and rich curry infused with fenugreek.
✅ Garlic Naan – A fragrant, buttery flatbread that pairs well with curries.
✅ Phirni – A silky-smooth rice pudding flavored with saffron and cardamom.

📌 No time to cook? Many local restaurants and takeaways in Croydon and Purley offer these traditional Iftar dishes!

Best Places for Iftar in London, Croydon & Purley

If you prefer eating out during Ramadan, several Pakistani, Indian, and Middle Eastern restaurants in London offer Iftar buffets and takeaway options. Here are some top picks:

Top Pakistani & Indian Iftar Restaurants

🏆 Infusion Village Café (Purley) – Known for its authentic Pakistani Iftar menu, including Haleem, Chicken Karahi, and Samosas.
🏆 Al-Karam (Croydon) – Famous for their Keema Naan, Chapli Kebabs, and Sheer Khurma.
🏆 Chaska Croydon – Offers an Iftar buffet with a mix of Pakistani and Indian specialties.
🏆 Tayyabs (East London) – A legendary Pakistani restaurant serving delicious Iftar platters.

Local Halal Takeaways for Iftar

🍽 Khan’s Takeaway (Croydon) – Quick and fresh Keema Samosas, Pakoras, and Haleem.
🍽 Biryani Junction (London) – Special Iftar meal deals with Biryani, Butter Chicken, and Phirni.
🍽 Desi Grill (Purley) – Offers family-sized Iftar meal deals, perfect for gatherings.

📍 Want the best deals? Many of these restaurants offer exclusive Iftar discounts during Ramadan—so check their websites or call ahead!

Healthy & Nutritious Iftar Meal Planning

While Ramadan Iftar food is delicious, it’s also important to balance your meals with healthy options. Here’s how to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients:

🥗 Start with Dates & Water – Sunnah practice and great for instant energy.
🥗 Include Fruits & Yogurt – Helps with hydration and digestion.
🥗 Limit Fried Foods – Swap deep-fried Samosas with baked or air-fried versions.
🥗 Add Protein – Dishes like Haleem, Chicken Karahi, and Kebabs keep you full longer.

🥗 Drink Plenty of Fluids – Coconut water, fresh juices, and herbal teas help maintain hydration.