The döner kebab, a delightful fusion of Germany and Turkish cuisine, originated as one of Turkey’s national dishes. Introduced to Berlin in the 1970s by Turkish immigrants, who represent one of the city’s largest minority groups, the dish was conveniently served in Turkish flatbread (fladenbrot). Döner has since become the most popular fast food in Germany.

You can find döner kebab in every town across Germany, but Berlin remains the undisputed capital, boasting over 1,300 döner stands—more even than Istanbul! Locals often favor their go-to spots based on convenience, although several döner restaurants stand out for offering an elevated experience beyond typical late-night fare.

What is Döner Kebab?

Traditionally, döner is made with lamb, although chicken or a mix of veal and lamb is also popular, sparking lively debates among enthusiasts about the best choice. The preparation involves stacking the meat onto a large rotating spit, which is then grilled vertically. As the meat cooks, it’s thinly sliced off and served in fladenbrot, often topped with fresh salad, tomatoes, onions, and a variety of sauces such as yogurt, spicy, or garlic.

Hasir

It is said that the döner was created at this restaurant in Kreuzberg. In 1971, Mehmet Aygün transformed the döner dining experience by serving meat and salad, which were previously served on a plate, in baked flatbread for a convenient snack.

Today, Hasir serves as a popular sit-down restaurant in the heart of Kreuzberg. In addition to döner kebab, patrons can enjoy traditional Turkish dishes, including grilled lamb, stuffed grape leaves, and hummus.

Address: Adalbertstr. 10, 10999 Berlin (Kreuzberg)

Imren Grill

Imren Grill meets the standards of convenience with multiple locations, authentic extras like complimentary Turkish tea, and top-quality meat. Although service may not be exceptional, the quality of food is what truly matters here.

What differentiates Imren is their dedication to preparing their own skewers, a skill that is becoming scarce. They expertly layer marinated beef, tenderizing it over a 24-hour period, ensuring that it achieves remarkable tenderness on the grill.

While enjoying a döner, do not miss their delicious linsensuppe (lentil soup), which sells out daily. They also offer an array of tellers (plated dishes) for those who wish to dine in.

Address:

• Boppstraße 10, 10967 Berlin, Germany (Kreuzberg)
• Wiener Straße 11, 10999 (Kreuzberg)
• Karl-Marx-Straße 75, 12043 (Neukoelln)
• Hauptstraße 156, 10827 (Schöneberg)
• Badstraße 1, 13357 Berlin (Wedding)
• Müllerstraße 134, 13349 (Wedding)

Tadim

Situated at the bustling Kottbuser Tor in Kreuzberg, this simple eatery offers an impeccable veal döner. The combination of crisp flatbread, thinly sliced, flavorful meat, and fresh salad makes for a delightful meal.

Though the döner is substantial, consider trying their renowned lahmacuns, or “Turkish pizza.” Although smaller than the rolled döner, it is equally stuffed with meat, salad, and sauce.

Address: Adalbertstraße 98, 10999 Berlin (Kreuzberg)

Doyum

Like many beloved Turkish establishments, this authentic restaurant is conveniently located near Kottbusser Tor, and while it may appear unassuming at first glance, the quality of grilled meat skewers served here is impressive.

In addition to excellent plate options, the fladenbrot stuffed with grilled bits is equally delightful. Complement it with rotkohl (red cabbage), as Doyum has recently expanded to cater to its growing popularity. It is also a fantastic place to enjoy lahmacun.

Address: Admiralsstraße 36-37, 10999 Berlin (Kreuzberg)

Vouner

No journey through Berlin would be complete without a visit to Vöner, reputed as Germany’s first vegan döner restaurant. This establishment caters beautifully to vegetarians and vegans alike, offering delectable seitan kebabs filled with roasted onions, carrots, celery, and iconic German potatoes. Additionally, the menu is rounded out with an array of vegetable-based soups, burgers, and desserts.

Address: Boxhagener Str. 56, 10245 Berlin (Friedrichshain)

Mustafas Gemuese Kebab

Mustafas Gemüse Kebab is well-known not just for its unique vegetable kebabs and chicken döner but also for its long lines, a testament to its popularity. With extensive national and international media coverage, their signature commercial has made them a household name, backed by a significant social media following.

If you happen to pass by Mehringdamm and there’s miraculously no line, don’t hesitate to grab a bite!

Address: Mehringdamm 32, 10961 Berlin (Kreuzberg)