A new restaurant in Irving is making waves by offering traditional Texas barbecue with a halal twist, providing Muslim diners with a unique culinary experience.

Expanding Halal Options in North Texas

The emergence of Kafi BBQ is significant as it reflects a growing trend in North Texas, where halal restaurants are diversifying their menus beyond the typical South Asian and Middle Eastern dishes. Muslim diners now can enjoy a variety of cuisines, including Nashville-style hot chicken, burgers, pizza, Chinese, Cajun, and Thai food.

A Passion for Barbecue

Pitmaster Salahodeen Abdul-Kafi opened Kafi BBQ in December after transitioning from a career in engineering in Silicon Valley to pursue his passion for smoked meats. He relocated to Irving in 2022 to be part of a larger Muslim community. His journey into barbecue began when he cooked brisket for friends at his mosque and later became a vendor at a suhoor festival during Ramadan.

A Unique Menu Inspired by Tradition

Kafi BBQ’s menu pays homage to Texas barbecue traditions while incorporating flavors from Abdul-Kafi’s Iraqi heritage. He describes his cooking style as Texas-style barbecue influenced by his childhood experiences rather than a fusion. This philosophy is evident in dishes like the wagyu brisket, which is enhanced with a sumac-infused citrus herb bark, adding a bright and tangy flavor to the smoky beef. Additionally, the house-made Iraqi sausage draws inspiration from the kebabs his father used to make at home.

The Meaning Behind the Name

The name “Kafi” holds special significance. In Arabic, it means “satisfied” or “full,” reflecting the restaurant’s goal of providing hearty and fulfilling meals.

Must-Try Dishes!

When visiting Kafi BBQ, the French fries are a must-try. They are fried in beef tallow, reminiscent of McDonald’s original recipe. For dessert, the cardamom banana pudding offers a delightful combination of warm spices and creamy custard, complemented by whole slices of banana.

Original Article:

Axios Dallas. (2025, April 28). Texas barbecue goes halal: Kafi BBQ opens in Dallas. Axios. https://www.axios.com/local/dallas/2025/02/28/texas-barbecue-halal-dallas-kafi-bbq