With the restrictions in Florida being eased by the Governor, some are eager to get back to their regular routine. For restaurants, this is welcomed news as they have been operating with heavy restrictions limiting their service to take-out and delivery options only. It has forced many restaurants to adapt and modify their menus and service. Now, the Governor has permitted restaurants to open for dining in at 25% capacity and allowed for outdoor seating as well.

In this post, we outline some of the Halal restaurants in Orlando that offer outdoor seating for those that would like to consider it.

1. Sizler Tandoori

This Indian restaurant off I-Drive has a large covered patio with several smaller tables spaced apart. They also have fans to help cool down customers when the hot days get too intense, or if the food is too spicy. There is limited parking, but with the current slow-down, it may not be much of an issue.

2. Jerusalem Restaurant

This formal style Middle-Eastern restaurant located in Kissimmee offers a limited covered patio outside their main entrance. The outdoor seating is limited to a few small tables but the space is decorated very nicely. The hanging plants and covered area creates an oasis feeling consistent with their Northern Sahara desert theme.

3. Merguez

This by far is the best outdoor seating area, in my opinion. Adjacent to the restaurant is a large open foyer with several tables set up for dining. The space is grand and is the preferred seating area for patrons when visiting this restaurant. It makes for an excellent space for relaxing and socializing with a cup of coffee after a long day working (or a long day managing the kids during quarantine).

4. Zaman Cuisine

This Halal Middle-Eastern restaurant recently changed ownership and is now run by a couple with prior experience managing a restaurant in Detroit. While the indoor space is cozy with a few small tables, the outdoor space can help alleviate some of the congestion. There are a few small tables set on their patio for customers. Traditionally is was used by customers who wished to enjoy their meal and indulge in the offerings from the adjacent Hookah Lounge.

4. Hot Krust

This sandwich shop located in the Whole Foods plaza off Sandlake, near Universal Studios and I-Drive has a large deck just in front of the entrance. There are several tables spaced apart with large umbrellas to provide shade from the hot sun. Furthermore, there is a common outdoor seating area shared amongst several restaurants not too far from the entrance for additional capacity.

While many are hesitant to return to normal activities, there are some who are pushing forward to the “new normal”. Restaurants are continuing to adapt and the inclusion of outdoor seating in these early phases may help alleviate the fears of some or allow those with no fear to continue on with as if nothing has changed. I did a poll of my social media followers to see what the sentiment was with respect to the Governor easing restrictions and the majority of respondents continue to feel resistant to return to dine-in options at restaurants. Only time will tell how these choices will affect us all.

Looking for other Halal options in the Orlando area? Let me be your guide to the Orlando Halal Food Scene. Follow me on Twitter or Instagram as I highlight the best Halal restaurants that Orlando and other great cities in Florida has to offer.  Also, don’t forget to share this post with friends and family that may be traveling to Orlando or Florida. Also sign up with our email list as we explore the Halal Food Scene.