Istanbul’s Best Kebab Restaurants: A Local’s Guide

If you’re a foodie planning a trip to Istanbul, you’re probably wondering where to find the best kebab restaurants. As a local who’s been exploring the city’s culinary scene for years, I’ve got you covered. Let me share my experiences and recommendations for the most mouth-watering kebabs in town. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear idea of where to go for an unforgettable dining experience.

When I first moved to Istanbul from the Bay Area, I was blown away by the variety of kebabs available. From the classic shish kebab to the more exotic adana kebab, there’s something for everyone. But with so many options, it can be overwhelming to choose. That’s why I’ve compiled this list of the best kebab restaurants in Istanbul, based on my personal favorites and local insights.

Whether you’re a tourist looking for an authentic experience or a local seeking new culinary adventures, this guide will help you discover the best kebab spots in the city. So, let’s dive in and explore the delicious world of Istanbul’s kebabs!

Top Kebab Restaurants in Istanbul

1. Zbeyir Ocakba

Zbeyir Ocakba is a must-visit for anyone looking for the best kebabs in Istanbul. Located in the vibrant Beyolu district, this restaurant offers a unique dining experience with its open grill concept. You can watch the chefs prepare your meal right in front of you, adding an extra layer of excitement to your dining experience.

The menu features a variety of kebabs, including the famous beyrouthi kebab and lamb chops. I’m torn between the beyrouthi and the lamb chops, but ultimately, the lamb chops win for their tender, juicy meat. Don’t forget to try their delicious meze platter, which is a perfect accompaniment to your kebab.

2. Karadeniz Pide ve Dner

If you’re looking for a more casual dining experience, Karadeniz Pide ve Dner is the place to be. This local chain specializes in dner kebab, a popular street food in Turkey. The meat is slow-roasted on a vertical spit and served in a wrap or on a plate with rice and salad.

What sets Karadeniz apart is the quality of their meat and the generous portions. Is this the best dner in Istanbul? Let’s consider the fact that it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike. The flavors are authentic, and the prices are reasonable, making it a great option for a quick and satisfying meal.

3. Hamdi Restaurant

Hamdi Restaurant is a legendary spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. Located in the historic Eminn district, this restaurant has been serving up delicious kebabs since 1973. The menu features a variety of kebabs, including the famous pistachio kebab and urfa kebab.

The pistachio kebab is a must-try, with its unique blend of ground pistachios and spices. Maybe I should clarify that the urfa kebab is also a standout, known for its rich, smoky flavor. The atmosphere at Hamdi is lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

4. Ali Ocakba

Ali Ocakba is another popular spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional ocakba style of cooking, where the meat is grilled over an open fire. The menu features a variety of kebabs, including the famous adana kebab and urfa kebab.

The adana kebab is a standout, with its spicy, flavorful meat. But let’s not forget the urfa kebab, which is known for its rich, smoky flavor. The atmosphere at Ali Ocakba is cozy and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

5. Kk Ev

Kk Ev is a hidden gem in the Moda neighborhood of Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous vezir kebab and kfteli kebab.

The vezir kebab is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. But let’s not forget the kfteli kebab, which is known for its rich, flavorful meat. The atmosphere at Kk Ev is cozy and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

6. Kebap Ensar

Kebap Ensar is a popular spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous tavuk i and patlcan kebab.

The tavuk i is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. Maybe I should clarify that the patlcan kebab is also a standout, known for its rich, smoky flavor. The atmosphere at Kebap Ensar is lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

7. Sultanahmet Kftecisi

Sultanahmet Kftecisi is a legendary spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous kfte and pide.

The kfte is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. The pide is also a standout, known for its rich, flavorful meat. The atmosphere at Sultanahmet Kftecisi is cozy and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

8. Ciya Sofras

Ciya Sofras is a popular spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous kebap and pide.

The kebap is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. But let’s not forget the pide, which is known for its rich, flavorful meat. The atmosphere at Ciya Sofras is lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

9. ehzade Erzurum Ca Kebab

ehzade Erzurum Ca Kebab is a popular spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous ca kebab and pide.

The ca kebab is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. The pide is also a standout, known for its rich, flavorful meat. The atmosphere at ehzade Erzurum Ca Kebab is cozy and inviting, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

10. Karaky Lokantas

Karaky Lokantas is a popular spot for kebab lovers in Istanbul. This restaurant is known for its traditional Turkish cuisine, including a variety of kebabs. The menu features the famous kebap and pide.

The kebap is a must-try, with its tender, juicy meat. But let’s not forget the pide, which is known for its rich, flavorful meat. The atmosphere at Karaky Lokantas is lively and bustling, with a mix of locals and tourists enjoying the delicious food.

Conclusion

Istanbul is a city that never fails to amaze with its rich culinary heritage. From the bustling streets of Beyolu to the historic alleys of Eminn, there’s always a new kebab spot waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re a local or a tourist, exploring the best kebab restaurants in Istanbul is an adventure in itself.

I challenge you to step out of your comfort zone and try something new. Visit one of these amazing kebab restaurants and let the flavors transport you to a world of culinary delight. Who knows, you might just discover your new favorite spot!

FAQ

Q: What is the best kebab in Istanbul?
A: The best kebab in Istanbul is subjective and depends on personal preference. However, some popular choices include the adana kebab, urfa kebab, and beyrouthi kebab.

Q: Where can I find the best dner kebab in Istanbul?
A: Karadeniz Pide ve Dner is a popular spot for the best dner kebab in Istanbul. The restaurant is known for its high-quality meat and generous portions.

Q: What is the difference between adana kebab and urfa kebab?
A: Adana kebab is known for its spicy, flavorful meat, while urfa kebab is known for its rich, smoky flavor. Both are popular choices among kebab lovers in Istanbul.

Q: What is the best time to visit Istanbul for food?
A: Istanbul is a year-round destination for food lovers. However, the best time to visit is during the spring and fall seasons, when the weather is pleasant and the city is less crowded.

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