Fire and Tradition: Antalya's Kebap Masters
Charcoal-grilled lamb, beef, and chicken kebap served at grill houses across Antalya
Kebap in Antalya means meat grilled over charcoal: lamb, beef, and chicken, cut and marinated according to each house's own spice blend. Some shops start preparing meat before dawn so it can marinate for 12 hours or more before it reaches the coals. The cooking is done by eye and ear; an experienced grill cook judges charcoal temperature by sight and sound, and uses specific woods that burn clean. The result should be charred at the edges and tender inside. Evening is the best time to eat kebap, when the grills reach full heat and the dinner rush keeps everything fresh. A mixed grill is the easiest way to compare the different cuts, and the grilled vegetables served alongside are worth ordering extra.
Antalya has kebab houses for every budget, from simple grills to restaurants with a view. Many also make their own regional specialities.
What it is
- Adana and Urfa kebab: minced meat on wide skewers, spicy (Adana) or mild (Urfa).
- Şiş kebab: cubes of marinated lamb or chicken grilled on skewers.
- Tandır: slow-cooked lamb, very tender, often served in traditional restaurants.
Where to try it
- Kebab restaurants around the city centre and in the newer districts
- Grill houses along the roads to the resorts
Tips
- Start with mezes and a lahmacun.
- Ask for ‘acılı’ if you like it spicy.
- Finish with künefe, a warm cheese dessert.
More in Antalya
Explore the old town of Kaleiçi, where many traditional restaurants are, or read our Antalya guide. A food tour is the easiest way to taste many local dishes in one afternoon.
Kebab in Antalya: frequently asked questions
What is the best kebab to try in Antalya?
Try Adana kebab if you like spice, Urfa if you prefer it mild, and şiş for tender meat cubes. Tandır lamb is a local favourite too.
Is kebab expensive in Antalya?
Prices vary a lot between simple grills and restaurants in tourist areas; check the menu before you order.
Book tours & tickets
🎟️ See Antalya food tours →Free cancellation on most tours · secure booking with GetYourGuide
Photo: Dosseman, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
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