Ramadan in America: Where to Find the Best Iftar Buffets

Ramadan is the holy month observed by Muslims. It is a time for spiritual reflection, fasting, and community. The day ends with the Iftar meal, where fasting individuals break their fast at sunset. For Muslims in the United States, finding halal-friendly Iftar buffets is a crucial part of observing the month. This article highlights some of the best places to find halal-certified Iftar buffets in the USA.

Why is Certain Buffet’s Iftar Particular?

Iftar buffets offer a wide variety of dishes, including traditional and modern options, perfect for breaking the fast. However, there are key factors that make some buffets stand out:

• Halal Certified Food: At halal Iftar buffets, all food adheres to Islamic dietary laws, ensuring that meat, alcohol, and other prohibited ingredients are not included.
• Types of Food: A perfect Iftar buffet includes a mix of dishes such as kebabs, biryani, grilled meats, desserts like baklava and kunafa, as well as soups and salads.
• Food Quality: The food should be fresh, nutritious, and prepared using high-quality ingredients, ensuring it is both satisfying and healthy after a day of fasting.
• Ambience: The atmosphere of the buffet should be welcoming and conducive to reflection, making it ideal for community bonding.
• Affordability: A good Iftar buffet offers great value, with a variety of food at a reasonable price.

Best Iftar Buffets in USA

During Ramadan, many hotels and restaurants in the United States offer Iftar buffets to meet the needs of Muslim customers. Here’s a compilation of some of the best Iftar buffets across the country:

1. The Ritz-Carlton, New York City

The Ritz-Carlton in Manhattan provides an extravagant Iftar buffet featuring Middle Eastern and Mediterranean cuisine. Expect to find hummus, shawarma, grilled kebabs, fresh salads, and desserts like baklava and qatayef. The elegant ambiance makes it a popular choice for a luxurious Iftar experience.

2. Aladdin’s Eatery, Washington, D.C.

Aladdin’s Eatery in Washington, D.C. is a go-to for locals and students alike, offering Mediterranean and Middle Eastern dishes. The Iftar buffet includes grilled meats, falafel, tabbouleh, hummus, and baklava, making it a great spot for a casual and satisfying meal.

3. Sheraton Grand, Chicago

The Sheraton Grand Chicago is known for its Iftar buffet, which includes a wide variety of halal dishes. The buffet features Middle Eastern favorites such as tabbouleh, baba ghanoush, grilled meats, and fresh salads. The serene ambiance and exceptional service make it ideal for family and community gatherings.

4. Four Seasons, Los Angeles

Four Seasons hotels are known for their fusion of cultures, and their Iftar buffets in Los Angeles are no exception. Expect to enjoy shawarma, lentil soup, and traditional sweet treats like baklava. The calm, elegant setting creates the perfect atmosphere for a relaxed and enjoyable Iftar meal.

5. The Mediterranean Grill, Houston

The Mediterranean Grill in Houston offers a rich Iftar buffet featuring Mediterranean and Middle Eastern cuisines. The buffet includes fresh salads, grilled kebabs, shawarma, and falafel, ensuring there’s something for everyone to enjoy.