The best kebabs in Edinburgh

If you want a true taste of Turkey, then look no further. Verdo is the leading Turkish restaurant in Edinburgh and in 2018 it was crowned the ‘Best Kebab House in Scotland’. We can certainly see why. On offer you’ll find an extensive selection of Turkish delicacies – from Hellim Peynir and Muska Boregi, to Lamb Shish and Chips – all cooked to perfection. Everything is fresh and hot, and the serving sizes are generous. Veggies fear not! There are some incredibly well thought out options for non-meat eaters too, like the freshly baked falafel, or indeed the mushroom-based vegetarian kebab! Prices are extremely reasonable for the quality of ingredients: if it’s a kebab you’re craving, Verdo is not to be missed.

Based in Leith, Ada is probably the most upmarket restaurant to get a kebab in Edinburgh. Why not start with a sample of some of the fresh, cold mezze: Baba Ghanoush, Cacik (diced cucumber mixed with yoghurt, mint and garlic), Hummus, or perhaps Kisir (couscous mixed with parsley, spring onions, lemon juice, olive oil and herbs). Of course, the kebabs are equally tempting; the chicken doner is served on crispy pide bread and topped with a special tomato sauce, all finished with yoghurt and brown butter. Prices are high for a kebab (most are around £15-£17), but we promise it’s well worth splashing your cash. Everything here oozes authenticity and the staff are always friendly and helpful. If you’re in the mood for a sit-down, fancy kebab, look no further.

Another firm favourite amongst locals and tourists alike, Nile Valley is a Sudanese café extraordinaire. You won’t find your average kebab offerings here: the chicken and lamb shish kebabs are cooked ‘Sudanese style’ – chargrilled with fried peanuts, sweet peppers and onions. The staff here are super friendly and happy to accommodate any requests. There’s a couple of seats dotted around the restaurant, so if you want to eat your kebab with a knife and fork, get there early enough to bag a table. For a not-so-typical kebab, head to the Nile Valley Café.

Though popular among the large student population in Edinburgh, The Mosque Kitchen is more than suitable for all. Prices are low and there are no frills – but the food (and the kebabs!) are truly superb. A three-course buffet (available on Fridays) will set you back only a tenner, though between 12:50-1:50pm on a Friday the restaurant is closed for prayers. If you can squeeze anything in after your kebab – the curries here are not to missed (full to the brim with tender meat) and the veggie options are always fragrantly spiced. 

Prahna means breath and this restaurant’s aim is to take yours away! Serving you the finest locally sourced ingredients, bringing to life all of your favourite past time dishes with a new Scottish twist, expect some unexpected new favourites on the menu. Among the Street Grill (Starters) is a Venison Sheekh Kebab, which is truly delicious. Minced venison with white cheddar and saffron – it’s bold, innovative and a must try!