Guide
Updated 10 November 2026
How to open a halal takeaway in the UK
By Arslan Munir
1. Register your food business
If you start a new food business or take over an existing one, you register with your local authority at least 28 days before you begin. Registration is free. The Food Standards Agency runs the online registration route for England; see GOV.UK, "Starting a food business". For the full steps, costs and licensing, read our guide to opening a takeaway in the UK.
2. Check planning and licensing
Hot food takeaways may need planning permission and, if you serve hot food after 11pm, a late night refreshment licence. See late night refreshment licence UK. Your council can confirm what applies to your premises.
3. Food hygiene
Your council inspects after registration and gives a food hygiene rating. See food hygiene ratings for takeaways.
4. Halal supply and certification
Decide whether you will hold certification (for example from HMC or HFA) or declare your own supply, and keep supplier paperwork. Plan how you will describe it to customers. See halal wording on an online menu.
5. Allergens and labelling
You must be able to give allergen information for each dish. See allergen information for online ordering.
6. Decide how customers will order
Most new takeaways list on a marketplace for discovery and open their own ordering page for regulars. A marketplace sets its own commission, so ask for the rate in writing. Your own ordering page with Chefzi has 0% commission on every plan and costs from £12 a month (£9 billed yearly) per location, excluding VAT, with the first month free and no credit card required. See halal food ordering apps compared, pricing and the commission calculator.
7. Open with a plan
Before launch, have: your menu with prices and halal notes; photos; your Google Business Profile with the order link (how to add it); a QR code on the door and bags; and leaflets.
8. Make the first month count
Ask every collection customer to order direct next time. Keep your hours and menu current. If you are planning around Ramadan, read the Ramadan and Eid ordering checklist.
See online ordering for halal restaurants and takeaways, or book a free call.
Questions
Do I need halal paperwork to open?
Not to register as a food business. If you describe your food as halal, you must be able to support the claim.
How long before opening should I register?
At least 28 days before you start trading. Registration with your local authority is free.
What does a halal takeaway cost to start?
It depends on premises, equipment and stock, so we do not publish a figure.
Can I set up online ordering before I open?
Yes. You can build your menu in advance and share your ordering link when you open.