A New Beginning in Erie

After fleeing the Taliban four years ago, an Afghan doctor has established a Middle Eastern restaurant in Erie, Pennsylvania. The restaurant, named Ariana Halal Kitchen, serves traditional Afghan and Middle Eastern dishes, including a popular item called Koburi Pulao. This venture marks a significant milestone for the family, who sought safety and a fresh start in the United States.

A Journey of Courage

Karim Hanif, the restaurant owner, previously worked as a doctor with the U.S. Army during the second Gulf War. Fearing for his life due to threats from the Taliban, he made the difficult decision to leave Afghanistan with his family. “The Taliban said they would kill me, so I came with my family with just the shirt on my back and the shoes on my feet,” Hanif shared. Tragically, he had already lost two sons in Afghanistan. Now, he lives with his wife, Roqia Anwar, and their two sons and two daughters in Erie.

From Teacher to Restaurateur

In addition to running the restaurant, Hanif has been working as a teacher’s assistant at East Middle School. On February 25, he opened Ariana Halal Kitchen at 1315 Parade Street, where a family friend, Anita Khan, serves as the chef. The restaurant offers a diverse menu featuring dishes from Afghanistan, the Middle East, India, and Pakistan. Hanif’s personal favorite is Kabuli Pulao, a flavorful dish made with seasoned vegetables, rice, and lamb.

A Unique Dining Experience

One of the standout features of Ariana Halal Kitchen is its large, carpeted stage, measuring approximately 20 feet by 12 feet. This stage allows Afghan and other Middle Eastern families to enjoy their meals in a traditional manner by sitting on the floor, a common practice in their cultures. The restaurant also provides conventional seating, accommodating up to 50 diners in total.

The Meaning Behind the Name

Hanif chose the name “Ariana Halal Kitchen” to honor the ancient state that corresponds to modern-day Afghanistan. The term “Halal” means “permissible” in Arabic, and Hanif explained its significance. His son, Yasar Abid, 15, who speaks fluent English, elaborated on the concept:

“‘Halal’ is an Arabic word for ‘lawful’ or ‘allowed.’ It follows Islamic guidelines for food and drink, animal slaughter, business conduct, and clothing.”

Embracing Their New Home

Yasar, who was just 12 when the family arrived in Erie, is now in 10th grade and participates in an online schooling program. He expressed his love for Erie, stating, “It’s my hometown. I have a lot of friends here.” Yasar is proud of his father’s new venture, saying, “It’s good to have your own business. It helps the Afghan community. I’m glad we opened it.”

A Community Hub

Ariana Halal Kitchen not only represents a new chapter for the Hanif family but also serves as a gathering place for the Afghan community in Erie. With its authentic cuisine and welcoming atmosphere, the restaurant aims to foster connections and celebrate cultural heritage while providing delicious meals to its patrons.

Original Article:

GoErie. (2025, April 29). Middle Eastern eatery Ariana Halal Kitchen brings Afghan flavor to Erie. GoErie. https://www.goerie.com/story/entertainment/dining/2025/03/13/middle-eastern-erie-restaurant-ariana-halal-kitchen-afghan-immigrant-owner/82237722007/