HALAL IZAKAYAS? Wine-free modern European food? Muslim dining options have taken on a distinctly progressive vibe as more eateries emerge to offer high-end alternatives to halal fast food and traditional cuisine. Backyard Kitchen opened in Jalan Kayu with some glitter, thanks to its chef-owner Haikal Johari, who also heads the kitchen at the one-Michelin-starred restaurant Alma by Juan Amador. "I think the Muslim community has always wanted to...

When Madam Ng Bee Leng, 46, and Ms Feny Eliana, 33, noticed their business had dropped by 20 per cent over the past few weeks, they could not understand why. The restaurant owners - of Jian Fa Seafood BBQ at Marine Parade Central and Penyet Town at One KM respectively - had no idea a viral online message had falsely flagged them among 63 eating establishments as having their halal certification cancelled. The claim -...

At first glance, The Great Mischief, which opened in February, looks like a traditional Spanish tapas bar, serving up small plates inspired by the region of Catalonia. On closer look though, diners will notice that dry-cured ham and alcoholic sangria are missing from the menu. The restaurant in Little India is among a growing number of new and innovative eateries catering to Muslim diners here. According to the Islamic Religious Council of...