Kebabs are a beloved dish enjoyed by food lovers across the globe. Whether served on skewers, wrapped in flatbread, or nestled in a bowl of rice, kebabs are versatile, flavorful, and perfect for any occasion. From juicy lamb to tender chicken or even vegetarian variations, the world of kebabs is vast and full of delicious possibilities. In this article, we’ll take you on a flavorful journey to discover some of the best kebab restaurants from around the world—places where the art of grilling meets tradition, creativity, and mouthwatering taste.
1. Karaköy Lokantası – Istanbul, Turkey
When it comes to kebabs, Turkey is the undisputed king, and Istanbul is home to some of the finest kebab joints in the world. One of the top places to savor a perfectly grilled kebab is Karaköy Lokantası. Located in the vibrant Karaköy district, this renowned eatery blends traditional Turkish flavors with a contemporary touch. The kebabs here, particularly the Adana Kebab (spicy minced lamb skewers), are grilled to perfection over open flames, providing a smoky and flavorful experience. Their kebabs are served with freshly baked flatbreads, aromatic rice, and tangy pickles, giving you a true taste of Turkish culinary mastery.
2. Bismillah Kebab – Karachi, Pakistan
If you’re ever in Karachi, Pakistan, and looking for an unforgettable kebab experience, Bismillah Kebab is the place to be. This legendary spot is famous for its Seekh Kebabs—succulent minced meat skewers, usually made with beef or chicken, blended with a mix of spices and herbs, then chargrilled to perfection. The kebabs are incredibly tender and juicy, often served with naan bread or wrapped in a soft paratha. The flavors are bold, savory, and aromatic, making it one of the best places to indulge in Pakistani kebab culture. Don’t forget to try their Kofta Kebabs and the flavorful Chicken Malai Boti, which is marinated in a rich yogurt-based sauce.
3. Shawarma Al Reem – Dubai, UAE
Dubai is a culinary paradise, with flavors from all corners of the world, and Shawarma Al Reem stands out as one of the best spots for a kebab-inspired meal. While shawarma is technically a type of kebab, the way it’s prepared and served in Dubai has elevated it to an art form. Shawarma Al Reem serves some of the most delicious shawarmas in the city, with perfectly spiced, tender chicken or lamb wrapped in warm pita or flatbread. The meat is slow-roasted on a vertical rotisserie, giving it a deliciously crispy exterior while keeping it juicy on the inside. It’s served with fresh vegetables, pickles, and tahini sauce, creating a satisfying and flavorful meal that has made it a local favorite.
4. Pideci Iskender – Istanbul, Turkey
Another gem in Istanbul, Pideci Iskender is famous for its rendition of Iskender Kebab, a dish that takes kebabs to the next level. This restaurant serves up tender slices of grilled lamb or chicken, served with a base of fluffy pita bread, all drenched in a rich, buttery tomato sauce, and topped with a dollop of creamy yogurt. The combination of savory meat, tangy sauce, and smooth yogurt creates a flavor explosion in every bite. Pair your Iskender Kebab with a side of fresh vegetables or a simple salad, and you’ll have a kebab experience unlike any other.
5. Kebab Hossain – Dhaka, Bangladesh
In Dhaka, Kebab Hossain is a must-visit spot for anyone looking for mouthwatering kebabs that reflect the essence of Bangladeshi flavors. Known for its Shami Kebabs, which are made from finely ground beef or mutton mixed with spices, this restaurant delivers rich, aromatic flavors that are tender and juicy. The kebabs are grilled to perfection and served with naan, paratha, or a side of fresh rice. The restaurant also offers Chicken Tikka Kebabs and Seekh Kebabs, which are equally popular with locals and visitors alike. If you’re in the city, Kebab Hossain offers a true taste of Bangladeshi kebab culture.
6. Dürümcü Baba – Istanbul, Turkey
If you’re in search of a kebab experience that offers a more casual vibe, Dürümcü Baba in Istanbul is a great choice. Specializing in Dürüm, which is a type of Turkish wrap made with thin, soft flatbread, Dürümcü Baba serves up some of the best Doner Kebabs in the city. The Doner Kebab is made by stacking layers of seasoned lamb, chicken, or beef on a vertical rotisserie, then thinly slicing it to serve with fresh salad, pickles, and a tangy yogurt sauce. The wraps here are perfectly filled and packed with flavors, offering a delicious yet easy-to-eat kebab experience perfect for lunch or a late-night snack.
7. The Kebab Shop – San Diego, USA
For those in the United States, The Kebab Shop in San Diego offers a unique fusion of Middle Eastern-inspired kebabs with American-style service and atmosphere. The restaurant specializes in doner kebabs, shawarma, and kebabs on skewers, with an array of options like chicken, beef, lamb, and vegetarian choices. The Chicken Shawarma here is marinated in a blend of spices and grilled to juicy perfection, while the Lamb Kofta Kebabs are rich in flavor. You can enjoy these kebabs on a plate, in a wrap, or even in a rice bowl, with plenty of sides like crispy fries, tabbouleh, and creamy hummus.
8. Kebab Turki Baba Rafi – Jakarta, Indonesia
Kebab Turki Baba Rafi has become one of the most popular kebab chains in Indonesia, and for good reason. The restaurant offers an exciting twist on the classic kebab with a unique blend of Turkish and Indonesian flavors. Known for its Turkish-style wraps, the kebabs here are stuffed with tender, spiced meats like chicken, lamb, or beef, alongside Indonesian-inspired toppings like pickled vegetables, sweet soy sauce, and sambal. Whether you’re enjoying the kebab as a quick snack or a satisfying meal, the flavors here are bold and unforgettable.
9. Al Waha Restaurant – Cairo, Egypt
If you’re in Cairo, Egypt, and craving a delicious kebab experience, Al Waha Restaurant is a local favorite that delivers authentic Middle Eastern flavors. Famous for its Egyptian-style kebabs (known as Kebab Hindi), the restaurant grills skewered beef and lamb over an open flame, giving it a rich, smoky flavor. These kebabs are served with a side of baba ganoush, hummus, and freshly baked pita bread, making for a complete, satisfying meal. Al Waha is also well known for its grilled chicken kebabs and kofta kebabs, offering something for everyone in the family.
10. Al Sham Restaurant – Amman, Jordan
For a taste of Jordanian kebabs, Al Sham Restaurant in Amman is an iconic spot that offers a traditional Middle Eastern dining experience. Famous for its Kebab Hindi, this family-friendly restaurant serves up tender skewers of beef or lamb, seasoned with aromatic spices and grilled to juicy perfection. Served with flatbreads, rice pilaf, and fresh salads, Al Sham’s kebabs are a celebration of the flavors of the Levant. The restaurant also offers Shish Tawook (grilled chicken skewers), grilled vegetables, and other mezze options that complement the kebab experience perfectly.
Conclusion
Kebabs are more than just street food; they’re an integral part of many cultures, offering a delicious and versatile dining experience. From the smoky, chargrilled flavors of Turkish kebabs to the spice-laden creations of South Asia and the Middle East, there’s a world of kebab possibilities to explore. Whether you’re traveling to Istanbul, Dubai, Karachi, or San Diego, these top kebab restaurants promise to deliver flavorful, unforgettable experiences that showcase the beauty of this timeless dish.