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Istanbul doner kebab

Writer's picture: Roza AksoyRoza Aksoy

Updated: May 8, 2023

Today I will introduce you to the best Doner kebab restaurant in Istanbul.



Doner kebab is a dish with a long and rich history that is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire, in what is now Turkey, in the 19th century. It was made from strips of marinated meat (typically lamb or beef) cooked on a vertical rotisserie and then served on pita bread with vegetables and sauce.


The dish became popular throughout the Ottoman Empire and eventually made its way to other parts of the world, including Germany, where Turkish immigrants introduced it in the 1960s and 1970s. The German version of the doner kebab became particularly popular, with the name "döner kebab" used to describe it.


Since then, the doner kebab has spread throughout Europe and has become a staple street food in many countries. It has also gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the United States, where it is sometimes referred to as "gyro" (a name that is thought to have originated from the Greek word for "turn").

In recent years, the doner kebab has evolved to include a variety of different meats, sauces, and toppings, and it has become a beloved fast food option for many people around the world.


List of best Doner kebab restaurants in Istanbul


1- Güvenbey Döner

This is my favorite place. They only serve doner kebab, and I visit this place every week or every two weeks. This restaurant is located away from the center of the city, and it is not designed for tourists. However, the people are very friendly, and the doner kebab is superb.

Güvenbey Döner

2- Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta

I recently visited Karadeniz Döner and was blown away by the quality of their food. The atmosphere was bustling and lively, with the option to sit in the bar next door or across the street for table service or queue for takeout.


The staff was friendly, and the prices were unbeatable for the food you received. I tried the wrap, sandwich, and just meat, and all three were incredibly juicy and delicious. I even had the opportunity to meet Asim Usta himself, who served us our sandwiches.

I highly recommend visiting Karadeniz Döner for an unforgettable dining experience. Get there early to avoid the rush!

Karadeniz Döner Asım Usta

3- Bayramoğlu Döner

I recently had the pleasure of dining at the #1 Döner restaurant in Istanbul, and it exceeded all my expectations. The staff was friendly and efficient, the portions were generous, and the food was terrific.


The döner was perfectly cooked, and the soft lavaş bread was a delightful twist on a traditional tortilla. I recommend visiting around 14.00 to avoid the long queue, but trust me. It's worth the wait. The free Wi-Fi was a nice bonus, too. The menu is limited, but the homemade fries and free salad were a great touch. The bread was one of the best I had in Turkey, and the Baklava was the perfect ending to this incredible meal.

My only regret is not trying it sooner. The Ayran could have been better, but it wasn't bad, and the location is a bit out of the way. Overall, I highly recommend this restaurant, and I guarantee it will be a meal you won't forget.

Bayramoğlu Döner

4- Farika Döner

The decor is inviting, and the prices are fair. The bonus is the kid's play area, making it a fantastic family-friendly option. Overall, I highly recommend giving this amazing wood fire doner a try!

Farika Döner

Add all these delicious locations to my map here.


What is the origin of the doner kebab?

As mentioned in my previous answer, the doner kebab is believed to have originated in the Ottoman Empire in the 19th century, and it has since spread throughout the world and become a popular street food.

What is the difference between a doner kebab and a gyro?

What kind of meat is used in a doner kebab?

How is a doner kebab typically served?

What are some variations of the doner kebab?



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