The Halal Cheesesteak That Put Saad’s on Philly’s Map

A Cheesesteak You Can Believe In

In Philadelphia, cheesesteaks are everywhere — but for years, many in the Muslim community felt left out of this city’s most famous food. That’s where Saad’s Halal Restaurant stepped in. Tucked on 4500 Walnut Street in University City, this family-owned spot not only delivers some of the city’s most talked-about sandwiches but does it all the halal way — with care, tradition, and values at the core.

From Food Truck to Landmark

Owner Saad Al Rayes started small, running a food truck on 38th and Spruce that quickly became a campus favorite. His mission was clear: All Halal. Only Halal. Always Halal. Today, the sit-down restaurant carries that same promise. Although open daily Saad’s keeps its doors welcoming year-round, even adapting hours during Ramadan to accommodate fasting families. It’s a reminder that this isn’t just a restaurant, it’s a reflection of the community it serves.

The Dish That Put Saad’s on the Map

Ask any local, and they’ll tell you about the legend: the Chicken Shish Tawook Maroosh Way — better known as the Chicken Maroosh. It’s a masterpiece of grilled chicken, tomato, sautéed onion, crisp pickles, and creamy garlic sauce, all tucked into a fresh hoagie roll.

1. “Tried the Chicken Shish Tawook Maroosh Way on the clerk’s advice — tons of meat, delicious sauce, perfectly toasted bread. Quick service, great portions, and easily one of the best sandwiches in Philly.” one Yelp reviewer said.
   
2. Another customer wrote: “Stopped by Saad’s in West Philly and tried the baba ganoush, chicken maroosh, and hummus. The baba ganoush was smoky and flavorful, the chicken maroosh came with perfectly grilled bread, tangy pickles, and tasty sauce, and the counter even had sriracha to kick it up a notch. Friendly service made the experience even better”
   
3. As 34th Street Magazine puts it “Saad’s Maroosh-way sandwich is worth the trek — packed with juicy chicken, fresh veggies, and served in hearty portions.”

But cheesesteaks aren’t the only star. Platters of falafel, shawarma, and kababs round out a menu that brings the best of Middle Eastern flavors to Philly.

Awards & Recognition

Saad’s Halal has received love far beyond West Philly:

1. Named by The Daily Meal among the best halal restaurants in the United States.
2. Featured in Bon Appétit’s roundup of the Best Cheesesteaks in Philadelphia.
3. Rated highly on TripAdvisor, with many diners calling the Chicken Maroosh and halal cheesesteaks a “must-try”

For a halal restaurant to be celebrated in a cheesesteak capital like Philadelphia? That’s no small feat. 

More Than a Meal: A Community Hub

What sets Saad’s apart is more than flavor. It’s the feeling. Nestled in the heart of West Philly and positioned near a mosque, Saad’s has become a natural gathering spot for families after prayer. Locals and students often share memories of coming here as kids — and now, they bring their own children. For many in Philadelphia’s Muslim community, Saad’s represents something bigger than food: the comfort of enjoying a cheesesteak with full trust in its zabiha halal authenticity.

As one FSS Falcon article put it: “Their Chicken Maroosh is a standout menu item… but more importantly, Saad’s gave the Muslim community something they deeply care about — halal food made with integrity.”

Why It Matters

In a city that prides itself on food identity, Saad’s Halal Restaurant carved out space for halal eaters to not just participate, but to lead the conversation. The restaurant isn’t just serving meals — it’s preserving tradition, fueling faith, and keeping community at the table.

Drop By At Saad’s 

Whether you’re craving a halal cheesesteak, curious about the famous Chicken Maroosh, or simply looking for food that feels like home, Saad’s Halal Restaurant should be your next stop.

Location: Saad’s Halal Restaurant

Hours:

• Mon-Thu: 11 A.M. – 9 P.M.
• Fri & Sat: 11 A.M – 10 P.M.
• Sun: Closed

Bring your appetite, bring your family, and join the community that’s been celebrating Saad’s for decades. Because in Philly, food is culture — and at Saad’s, food is faith too.