Shah’s Halal Food: Bringing Authentic Halal Cuisine to the Mainstream

Founded in 2005 as a humble food cart in Richmond Hill, Queens, Shah’s Halal Food has evolved into a prominent international franchise. Headquartered in Amityville, New York, the brand now boasts over 90 locations across the United States, Canada, the UK, and Sweden.

Shah’s Halal Food offers a diverse menu featuring platters, gyros, sandwiches, and salads, all prepared with ethically sourced, halal-certified ingredients. Signature dishes like Chicken over Rice and Lamb over Rice are complemented by proprietary sauces, including the renowned white sauce, which have become favorites among customers.

The franchise began its expansion in 2016, offering opportunities for food trucks, carts, and brick-and-mortar locations.

Shah’s Halal Food distinguishes itself through a commitment to quality, community engagement, and a fast-casual dining experience that appeals to a broad audience. The brand's inclusive approach has garnered a loyal customer base, transcending cultural and dietary boundaries.

Training

Shah’s Halal provides a structured training program to equip franchisees and their staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to operate a franchised business in accordance with the brand’s standards.

1. Initial Training Program: Before opening the franchise, up to two managers—at least one being a partner from the ownership group—must complete the initial training program. This training, included in the franchise fee, spans approximately two weeks and covers operations, management, and review of the operations manual. Franchisees are responsible for all travel, lodging, and related costs.
2. Pre-Opening and Post-Opening Support: The franchisor may assign a representative to the franchise location for around 14 days to conduct pre-opening and post-opening training and assistance. This includes support in setup and operations, with associated costs borne by the franchisee.
3. Additional Trainee Training: If the franchisee wishes to train more than the initial two participants, they must pay a training fee for each additional person. All out-of-pocket costs and applicable wages are also the franchisee's responsibility.

Territory Protection

Shah’s Halal grants its franchisees a defined Protected Territory, which is outlined in the franchise agreement and typically ranges up to five miles around the approved restaurant location.

This area may be smaller in dense urban environments, potentially covering just a few blocks. Within this Protected Territory, Shah’s Halal agrees not to establish or authorize another franchised business, except at “Non-Traditional Sites” like airports or college campuses.

However, the protection is limited. The franchisor and its affiliates retain the right to sell products under the Shah’s Halal brand or other marks through various alternative channels such as online platforms, grocery stores, and other retail environments—even within the franchisee’s territory. Additionally, franchisees are not given exclusive territory rights and may still face competition from these other distribution methods.