Andrew Thompson
Updated: July 19, 2025
Best Kebab in Istanbul (according to the Internet)
Istanbul, a city where East meets West, offers a culinary journey as diverse and vibrant as its rich history. Among its gastronomic treasures, kebabs hold a place of honor, reflecting the city's deep-rooted traditions and regional influences. As you meander through Istanbul's bustling streets, the enticing aroma of sizzling meats beckons from every corner, promising an unforgettable dining experience.
In the heart of the city, near the iconic Grand Bazaar, lies Gaziantep Burc Ocakbasi. Established in 1988, this eatery brings the authentic flavors of Gaziantep to Istanbul. Their signature Eggplant Kebab and Adana Kebab are must-tries, each bite encapsulating the essence of southeastern Turkish cuisine. The cozy ambiance, combined with the rich tapestry of flavors, makes it a favorite among both locals and visitors. ([istanbul.com](https://istanbul.com/city-life/taste-best-kebabs-in-istanbul))
For those seeking a more traditional experience, Zübeyir Ocakbaşı in Beyoğlu offers an authentic ocakbaşı (open grill) setting. Here, skilled chefs prepare succulent lamb shish and Adana kebabs over a charcoal grill, right before your eyes. The warm, inviting atmosphere, reminiscent of a Turkish living room, provides the perfect backdrop for savoring these grilled delights. ([theculturetrip.com](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/istanbuls-best-kebap-restaurants/))
On the Asian side of Istanbul, Çiya Kebap in Kadıköy stands out with its unique kebab varieties. Dishes like Soğan Kebabı (kebab with roasted shallots and pomegranate syrup) and Çiya Kebabı (kebab wrapped in thin crispy dough with walnuts, yogurt, kaşar cheese, sumac, mint, and parsley) showcase the restaurant's innovative approach to traditional recipes. The diverse menu, coupled with a vibrant setting, offers a culinary adventure through Anatolian flavors. ([theculturetrip.com](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/istanbuls-best-kebap-restaurants/))
For a taste of history, Develi Kebab in Samatya is a must-visit. Established in 1912, this institution is renowned for its Fıstıklı Kebab (kebab with pistachios), a dish they proudly claim to have invented. The combination of tender meat and crunchy pistachios creates a harmonious blend of textures and flavors, making it a standout in Istanbul's kebab scene. ([theculturetrip.com](https://theculturetrip.com/europe/turkey/articles/istanbuls-best-kebap-restaurants/))
In the vibrant neighborhood of Beşiktaş, Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta has been serving mouthwatering döner kebabs since 1973. This small yet bustling spot is famed for its high-quality beef döner, seasoned to perfection and served in generous portions. The long queues are a testament to its enduring popularity among Istanbulites. ([onedio.co](https://onedio.co/content/top-10-doner-kebab-restaurants-you-must-try-in-istanbul-28810))
For those venturing to the Asian side, Metet Döner in Kuzguncuk offers a delightful experience. Known for its "Yaprak Döner," the restaurant sources its meat from Balıkesir Kepsut, ensuring top-notch quality. The charming corner shop ambiance adds to the overall dining pleasure, making it a favorite among locals. ([gastroturfing.com](https://gastroturfing.com/istanbuls-best-meat-doner-kebab-restaurants/))
Istanbul's kebab scene is a reflection of its cultural mosaic, offering a plethora of flavors and experiences. Whether you're indulging in a classic Adana kebab, savoring a pistachio-infused creation, or exploring innovative twists on traditional recipes, the city's eateries promise a culinary journey that tantalizes the taste buds and leaves lasting memories.
Our Top 10 Best kebab
Turgut Kebab Restaurant -Sultanahmet-
Sultan Ahmet, Akbıyık Cd. No:64, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Mauro
5 Great food and service
Serdar
1/5 super serveurs!!!.. Très bon restaurant.
ندى
الاكل شهي، الخدمة رائعة و الموظفين لطيفين و المنظر اكتر من رائع Yemekler lezzetli, hizmet harika, personel saygili ve manzara harika.
Mar Kebab House Restaurant
Google Reviews
Gonzalo
Comida muy buena baños limpios empleados educados en en general muy bueno todo
Asier
really good place to eat
Bengt
Been here twice . Great service . I definitely recommend the sea bass.
By Ferro Kebab And Fish House
Google Reviews
Matt
Great food and service. Nice drink menu. Sehmus was super cool. Pretty pricy but good time
Ana
Un loc de-a dreptul deosebit, vă mulțumesc pentru această experiența , mâncarea atât de bună, adevărat gustul turcesc, cat despre personal, atât de atent și prietenos, muzica foarte bună… m am simțit minunat, Vă mulțumesc! Recomand cu drag. Voi reveni cu drag mereu aici ❤️
lucky
Оте керемет жер
İstanbul Kebab Cafe Restaurant
Alemdar, Biçki Yurdu Sk. No:5, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Sheila
Un sitio genial y muy agradable para la comida o la cena, nosotros fuimos 6 a comer y salimos muy contentos la comida muy rica y los camareros muy atentos... recomendable
Patricia
Free dips. Free desserts. Fantastic staff. Helpful and efficient. Food is really good. The atmosphere in the outside eating area is perfect. We ate there four nights out of six. Best value for money.
Daniel
Staff are SO friendly and really take care of their customers. We had dinner there 4 nights and all our food was delicious. Great value for $, much better than the other restaurants we tried in Istanbul
Turkish Kebab Fish Steak
Cankurtaran, Akbıyık Cd. No:62, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
solveig
God service og god mat. Litt masete betjening ved bestilling, men til syvende sist topp👌🏽. Anbefales 🤗
Andrea
Kjempe bra opplevelse livlig stemning god mat hyggelige personell de forteller gjerne hva som er best mat å de gir til å me extra fikk extra is te å vannmelon! Lagde også papir blomst! Kjempe god service å fint personal for ein livelig kveld
Katie
Good food. Not that expensive.
İstanbul Kebab Fish House
Şehsuvar Bey, Kadırga Limanı Cd. No:27, 34093 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Mert
BAŞARILI,BOL KAZANÇLAR🙏🙏
fırat
Uzun zamandır hizmetin bu kadar iyi olduğu böyle lezzetli yemekler yememiştim Yıldırım bey bizlerle çok ilgilendi bir sürü ikramlık hediye ettiler çay meyve tabağı . Kesinlikle herkese çok tavsiye ederim gözünüz kapalı gelebilirsiniz biz 4 kişi tıka basa doyduk çok keyif aldık atmosferi çok güzel . Tuvaletleri steril tertemiz . Sürekli geleceğim bir yer haline geldi . YILDIRIM beyin hizmeti içinde teşekkür ederiz
Nicolai
Gracious host and fantastic food
Ortaklar Kebap Restaurant
Binbirdirek, Peykhane Cd. No:27/a, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Loriane
Très bon, portions généreuses. Pas trop cher, bon rapport qualité prix je recommande
Marina
Очень хорошая кухня, замечательный персонал. Порции просто огромные! Сначала дают лаваш с соусом. Брали с подругой блюдо на двоих, но даже вдвоём не осилили, а жаль. Очень вкусный фалафель, дорада, чай.
Nazneen
Excellent food at good prices (especially for Sultanamet area where prices are peak.) Very good service from Muhammad who spoke excellent English, made good recommendations and gave us free apple tea. Best lahmacun and chicken kebab we had during our 2 weeks in turkey. We enjoyed so much, we visited for a 2nd time! Also, bathrooms were clean
Ayasofya kebap house
Alemdar, İncili Çavuş Sk. No:8/A, 34110 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
BV
Great - could have been better with fresh hot bread / over all well priced and friendly staff
Obaid
Hersey mukemmel cay baklava mezeleriniz ikram fiyatlar cok uygun
Ömer
👍
ROSS KEBAB HOUSE
Binbirdirek, Piyer Loti Cd. No:9/1, 34122 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Dalia
Muy bueno, rico y buen servicio
Andres
Good food, good service 👍🏼
Sofia
Very good service
Sultanahmet Buhara Kebab House Restaurant
Alemdar, Ç. Nuruosmaniye Cd. No:7, 34120 Fatih/İstanbul
Google Reviews
Braden
They put together tables for our large group (specifically near the large AC unit), served us well and in a timely manner, provided great service throughout the meal. They even offered us free complimentary dessert after the meal.
Maria
Estamos de vacaciones en Estambul y tras el Free walking tour, nos recomendaron este sitio para comer kebab, y no se equivocaron! Nos sentamos en la terraza, muy colorida y decorada, sillones cómodos ! Pedimos un doner kebab de pollo y un kebab ufar mixto (beef y cordero), todo acompañado de verduras asadas, ensalada y arroz! Además nos obsequiaron unas berenjenas con pan de pita y para cerrar un té típico turco con frutas y baklava. El personal muy amable y nuestro mesero nos enseñó algunas palabras locales! Un genio! Recomendamos!!
Carmen
We had a fantastic experience at this Turkish restaurant during our trip to Istanbul. The food was full of flavor, freshly prepared, and beautifully presented. We tried one of the kebabs, which was perfectly cooked and came with rice and a fresh salad — everything tasted homemade and truly authentic! Beers also available!