If you're looking for a decent halal meal in Nagoya you'll be mostly restricted to curry or kebabs. But British expat Rajib Ali has added a little variety to the landscape by opening a 100 percent halal-chili restaurant.
Although there are just three mains on the regular menu at Om Nom Nom — chili con carne, pita bread stuffed with chili and a chilidog — customers are given the choice of two free toppings and can add additional ones for just an extra ¥50 each. These toppings include guacamole, salsa and sour cream, all of which are handmade in the restaurant, along with (among other things) cheese, olives, jalapenos or corn — there is something for everyone. The chili itself is not insanely spicy, and a selection of hot sauces, ranging from tongue-tinglers to knock-socks-offers, are free to use.
The meals are normally sold as sets (lunchtime from ¥750, dinner from ¥1,200) and are very hearty, especially if you choose the chili, as an extra portion of rice is available for free. The set comes with a side of nachos, a salad, a soft drink and a dessert in the evenings, which is often handmade ice-cream. A larger portion of nachos is also available (¥500), or you can opt for the Mega version (¥800), which is big enough to feed a small family but so moreish you just might finish it yourself.