From sizzling doner wraps to charcoal-grilled shish skewers, kebabs are no longer just a late-night indulgence—they’re a central part of Dublin’s fast-casual food scene. Whether you’re grabbing a lamb kebab after a night out on Camden Street or seeking authentic Turkish cuisine in Rathmines, Dublin has quietly become a kebab lover’s paradise.
As someone who has sampled kebabs across the city—from tiny family-run Turkish joints to late-night Lebanese takeaways—I’ve come to appreciate the variety, quality, and cultural richness they offer. And I’m not alone. According to Just Eat Ireland, kebabs ranked among the top five most-ordered foods in Dublin in 2024, with lamb doner and chicken shish topping the list.
This article is your guide to the best kebabs in Dublin—based on personal experience, expert input, and reliable reviews—designed to help locals and visitors alike find the most flavorful, satisfying wraps and platters the city has to offer.
🌍 What Exactly Is a Kebab?
The term kebab broadly refers to meat grilled on a skewer or spit, originating in the Middle East and South/Central Asia. Common types include:
- Doner Kebab: Thin slices of meat from a vertical rotisserie (often lamb, chicken, or beef)
- Shish Kebab: Cubed meat skewered and grilled (usually lamb or chicken)
- Adana/Urfa Kebab: Spiced minced lamb shaped on skewers (Turkish origin)
- Koobideh Kebab: Ground beef/lamb skewers from Persian cuisine
- Kebab Wrap: Grilled meat in flatbread with salad, sauces, and sometimes chips
“Kebab culture in Europe has evolved into a culinary bridge—offering authenticity, comfort, and quick access to Middle Eastern flavours.”
— Dr. Sami Zubaida, Food Historian, University of London
📊 The Rise of Kebabs in Dublin
Kebab shops have been part of Dublin’s food culture since at least the 1980s, often serving the late-night crowd. But over the past decade, we’ve seen a shift:
- More authentic, sit-down restaurants (especially Turkish and Persian)
- A growing demand for grilled over fried fast food
- Increased popularity of halal, gluten-free, and vegan options
According to Bord Bia’s 2023 Global Food Report, Dublin diners are increasingly seeking “fast food with provenance”—quick, but made with care and cultural authenticity. The kebab fits this perfectly.
🥇 Best Kebabs in Dublin (2025 Picks)
Here’s a breakdown of the top kebab spots in Dublin—based on quality, authenticity, service, and my own taste-testing over several years.
| Restaurant | Location | Type | Price Range | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zaytoon | Camden St, Temple Bar | Persian-style kebabs | €10–€15 | ⭐ 4.5 |
| Istanbul Kebab House | Rathmines | Turkish grill + doner | €8–€14 | ⭐ 4.6 |
| Keshk Café | Mespil Road | Lebanese/Mediterranean | €12–€18 | ⭐ 4.7 |
| The Kebab Factory | Grand Canal Dock | Modern Turkish fusion | €10–€16 | ⭐ 4.4 |
| Passion 4 Food | Clanbrassil St | Afghan & Middle Eastern mix | €8–€12 | ⭐ 4.8 |
| Camile Kebab | Capel Street | Authentic Syrian grill | €9–€14 | ⭐ 4.3 |
| Persian Palace | Camden Street | Persian koobideh & wraps | €11–€17 | ⭐ 4.5 |
🔥 1. Zaytoon (Multiple Locations)
📍 Camden Street, Temple Bar, Ranelagh
🥙 Specialty: Lamb shish, chicken koobideh, halloumi wraps
⏰ Open Late: Until 3 AM on weekends
Why It’s Great:
Zaytoon is arguably Dublin’s most popular kebab spot, known for its Persian roots, fast service, and generous portions. Their meats are charcoal-grilled to order, served in warm Iranian bread with herbed yogurt sauce and fresh salad.
My experience: The lamb shish wrap here is a go-to after gigs at Whelan’s—charred on the outside, juicy inside, with a hit of sumac and parsley. Their garlic sauce is chef’s kiss.
🔥 2. Istanbul Kebab House (Rathmines)
📍 Upper Rathmines Road
🔥 Specialty: Turkish lamb adana, mixed grill platter
🧑🍳 Authenticity Level: High (Turkish-run)
Why It’s Great:
This lesser-known gem serves true Turkish kebabs, with dishes like Adana, doner, and lamb chops served with bulgur, grilled tomatoes, and flatbread. All meats are grilled over open flame.
Local tip: Their Iskender Kebab (doner meat over bread with tomato butter sauce and yogurt) is hard to find in Dublin—and done brilliantly here.
🔥 3. Keshk Café (Mespil Road)
📍 Mespil Road, Dublin 4
🌱 Bonus: Fully Halal and BYOB
💺 Ambience: Cozy and suitable for date nights
Why It’s Great:
Keshk blends Lebanese and Mediterranean influences. Their chicken shish and lamb kofte platters come with tabbouleh, hummus, and homemade sauces. The grilled meats are fragrant with cumin, paprika, and lemon juice.
Personal pick: Their lamb kofte wrap with tahini is one of the most balanced, flavorful kebabs I’ve had in Dublin—especially with a side of fattoush salad.
🔥 4. The Kebab Factory (Grand Canal Dock)
📍 Hanover Quay
🚀 Vibe: Trendy, modern interiors
👨👩👧👦 Best For: Groups and work lunches
Why It’s Great:
A newer addition to Dublin’s kebab scene, The Kebab Factory offers Turkish classics with a twist—like falafel bowls, naan-wrapped kebabs, and beef kofta on saffron rice.
Standout dish: Try their Kebab Box, where you choose a base (rice, chips, or salad), meat, and toppings. It’s like a healthy fast-food version of a kebab platter.
🔥 5. Passion 4 Food (Clanbrassil Street)
📍 Between Portobello & Harold’s Cross
🕓 Open Until Late: A lifesaver after 1 AM
💬 Reputation: Best late-night kebab in Dublin
Why It’s Great:
Run by a passionate Afghan chef, this place serves chargrilled lamb kebabs, garlic naan wraps, and creamy hummus bowls. It’s small, no-frills, and absolutely delicious.
My advice: Skip the usual doner and go for the chicken tikka naan wrap—it’s smoky, spicy, and packed with grilled peppers and onions.
🔥 6. Camile Kebab (Capel Street)
📍 Capel Street, Dublin 1
🌍 Specialty: Syrian-style shish tawook and shawarma
🧕 Middle Eastern Owned
Why It’s Great:
Camile Kebab offers Syrian home-style kebabs, including chicken shish tawook marinated in yogurt and garlic. Their hot sauce is fiery and flavorful.
Vegetarian? Try their grilled halloumi wrap with za’atar and pomegranate molasses.
🔥 7. Persian Palace (Camden Street)
📍 Just down from Zaytoon
🔥 Specialty: Koobideh kebab with saffron rice
👑 Ambience: Classier than your average kebab shop
Why It’s Great:
A quieter option on busy Camden Street, Persian Palace focuses on traditional Iranian kebabs, like koobideh (minced lamb skewers) and joojeh (saffron chicken). Their saffron rice is exceptional.
Best enjoyed: As a platter with grilled veg, mast-o-khiar (yogurt with cucumber), and fresh flatbread.
💡 Tips for Ordering the Best Kebab
- Wrap vs. Plate: Wraps are faster and cheaper, but plates offer better presentation and variety (rice, dips, veg).
- Ask for fresh grill: Some shops pre-cook meats—always ask if they grill to order for better flavour.
- Sauce balance: Don’t drown it—ask for sauces on the side so you can customise.
- Go early or late: Avoid the dinner rush (6–8 PM) unless you want to wait.
- Halal options: Many shops are fully halal—always confirm if important for you.
❓ FAQs About Kebabs in Dublin
Q: Are kebabs in Dublin authentic?
A: Many are. Turkish, Persian, Syrian, and Afghan chefs run several top shops. You’ll find both classic European-style doners and traditional Middle Eastern-style grilled meats.
Q: What’s the healthiest kebab option?
A: Choose grilled meat (not doner), skip chips, and go for salad or rice. Chicken shish or lamb kofte with grilled veg is a good choice.
Q: Can I get vegetarian or vegan kebabs?
A: Yes. Zaytoon, The Kebab Factory, and Keshk offer falafel, grilled veg, and halloumi options. Vegan-friendly sauces like tahini or garlic yogurt are often available.
Q: Are kebabs expensive in Dublin?
A: Mid-range pricing. Wraps cost €8–€12, while platters with rice, salad, and bread range from €13–€18.
🏁 Final Thoughts: Dublin’s Kebab Scene Is More Than Just Drunk Food
If you think kebabs are only for post-pub hunger, think again. Dublin’s kebab scene has matured into a diverse, flavorful, and authentic culinary category, serving everything from classic Persian koobideh to Syrian shawarma and Turkish adana.
Whether you’re after a quick wrap, a meat-loaded platter, or a vegan-friendly bite, Dublin has it. My top recommendation? Zaytoon for quick service, Keshk Café for sit-down ambiance, and Passion 4 Food if you’re out late and need a taste of smoky perfection.
Have a favourite kebab spot I missed? Want help finding halal options near you? Drop your questions or recommendations below—I’m always open to exploring more! 🥙🔥
Hi, I’m Tanvir, the founder and author of Explore Ireland Now. With a deep love for Ireland and its rich culture, history, and landscapes, I created this site to share everything that makes this beautiful country worth exploring. Whether you’re a local looking for hidden gems or a traveler planning your next adventure, I provide insightful guides, tips, and recommendations to help you experience Ireland to the fullest.
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