In the heart of Bay Ridge, Brooklyn, Al-Aqsa Halal Market has been a cornerstone of the community for over two decades. We sat down with the owner to learn about their story.
A Family Legacy
Al-Aqsa was founded in 2003 by a family of butchers who immigrated from Yemen. What started as a small storefront on 5th Avenue has grown into one of Brooklyn's most trusted halal meat suppliers.
"My father taught me everything about butchering," says the owner. "The cuts, the quality, how to talk to customers. It's more than a business — it's a craft passed down through generations."
What Sets Them Apart
- Hand-selected livestock: They work directly with farms upstate to source the freshest animals.
- On-site processing: Everything is slaughtered and processed in-house, ensuring complete halal compliance.
- Custom cuts: Customers can request specific cuts, thicknesses, and preparations.
- Community connection: They sponsor local events, donate to food banks, and mentor young butchers.
Joining FreshCut
"Joining FreshCut was a natural step for us," explains the owner. "Our regulars love us, but there are families across Brooklyn and beyond who deserve access to quality halal meat. FreshCut's delivery network lets us reach them."
Since joining FreshCut, Al-Aqsa has expanded their customer base by 40%, reaching customers in Manhattan, Queens, and the Bronx who previously couldn't make the trip to Bay Ridge.
Try Their Specialties
- Hand-ground lamb kofta mix — seasoned and ready to grill
- Whole leg of lamb — perfect for celebrations
- Fresh chicken, never frozen — slaughtered daily
- Custom shawarma-cut chicken thighs — marinated and ready to cook
Visit Al-Aqsa Halal Market on FreshCut to explore their full selection and get same-day delivery to your door.