Iskender kebab, which ranks first in the flavour stops of local and foreign tourists visiting Istanbul, is not only a meal, but also a cultural and historical heritage. This unique dish, which originated in Bursa and spread all over Turkey, is carefully served in dozens of different places in Istanbul. So what makes Iskender kebab so special? What is its history? Where to eat real Iskender kebab? What are the best addresses for Iskender kebab in Istanbul? In this article, we have prepared a detailed guide for everyone who wants to get to know Iskender kebab and taste the best in Istanbul!
What Is Iskender Kebab? Best Places to Eat Iskender Kebab in Istanbul
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What is Iskender Kebab?
Iskender kebab takes its name from Iskender Efendi, who lived in Bursa in the 19th century and prepared this dish for the first time. This kebab starts with thin slices of doner meat fried in butter. Homemade nail pita is laid on the bottom, slices of doner are fried in butter are placed on top and hot butter is poured on top. Served with yoghurt and tomato sauce.
The difference of a real Iskender kebab lies in the quality of the ingredients used and the skilful presentation. Made from a mixture of beef and lamb, doner kebab is cooked over a wood fire. The butter is from Erzurum or Trabzon and the yoghurt is strained and slightly sour. This combination turns the meal into a feast.
Historical and Cultural Importance of Iskender Kebab
Iskender kebab was first prepared by İskender Efendi in Bursa in 1867. This dish, which was designed following the urban and elite table culture of Ottoman cuisine, became widespread among the public over time. While kebabs were mostly cooked on a stick at that time, İskender Efendi developed the method of cooking the meat on a vertical skewer. This technique is also the basis of today's döner kebab.
Iskender kebab is considered not only a dish in Turkish cuisine, but also a symbol of modernising Anatolian cuisine. Today, the Iskender family still operates the original shop in Bursa.
1. Kebapçı İskender (İskenderoğlu) - Kadıköy / Nişantaşı
One of the best-known addresses carrying the legacy of the original İskender kebab. The quality of the meat, the amount of butter and the presentation are very close to the original in Bursa. The fact that the meat served in the place is 100% lamb takes the flavour to a different point. The yoghurt is slightly sour and the butter is poured visibly hot. Prices are above average, but the flavour is worth it.
Source: Kebabçı İskender
2. Bursa Garaj Kebap - Levent / Beşiktaş
One of the most successful places in Istanbul that keeps the flavour of Bursa alive. Doner meat is prepared in a wood fire and the portions are quite generous. The pitas are freshly cooked, the butter is abundant and the tomato sauce is intense and aromatic. It manages to bring the spirit of the original places in Bursa to Istanbul. The place is modern but the menu is traditional.
Source: Tripadvisor
3. Bursa Kebapçısı - Beyoğlu / Taksim
Although it is located in the centre of Istanbul, it is a good choice in terms of price/performance. The place is small but always crowded. The doners are cooked over a charcoal fire and prepared to order. Butter quality is high and the meat ratio is balanced. It is ideal for those who want to experience Turkish cuisine, especially in the area where tourists are dense.
Source: Tripadvisor
4. Kandilli Borsa - Kandilli / Üsküdar
It offers a high-end kebab experience combined with the Bosphorus view. The meat quality is quite high, the presentation is elegant and the portion balance is appropriate. The tomato sauce is slightly sweet and the butter is quite aromatic. Although the prices are in the luxury restaurant category, it stands out with its ambience and service level. Tables with a view are especially preferred during sunset hours.
Source: Tripadvisor
5. Uludağ Et Lokantası - Etiler / Bakırköy
A well-established steakhouse serving since the 1940s. Although there are many kebab varieties other than Iskender on the menu, Iskender is one of the most preferred flavours here. Nail pitas are made in their own ovens. Yoghurt quality and hot buttered service stand out. Also suitable for families.
Source: Tripadvisor
6. Kasabım Ethane - Cihangir / Beyoğlu
A little different from the classic Iskender kebab, tenderloin meat is used. The presentation is modern and the portions are big. The butter ratio is high but it does not bother. Tomato sauce is quite thick. It generally appeals to a young and gastronomy-savvy audience. The place is a good example of Istanbul's new generation kebab shop concept.
Source: Kasabım
7. Konsept Steak & Doner Kebab - Maslak
Despite being located in the business centre of Istanbul, it offers a quality and authentic Iskender. The meat quality is high, especially the sealing of the meat on the grill makes a difference. Tomato sauce and butter are used in a balanced way. Table service is fast and the place is spacious. It can get busy during lunch hours.
Source: Tripadvisor
8. İskender - Since 1867 - Beşiktaş
As the name suggests, this is another place that emphasises history and tries to stay true to the original recipe. The meat is sourced from Bursa; the butter is also local. The decoration is reminiscent of old Bursa restaurants. The service is a bit slow, but the presentation is remarkable. It is the nostalgic representative of this flavour journey from Bursa to Istanbul.
Source: Tripadvisor
Iskender Delight After Visiting Suleymaniye Mosque
There are dozens of places to visit in the historical peninsula, but especially those who visit the Suleymaniye Mosque have only one question in mind: Where to have a nice meal after this historical atmosphere? The area around Suleymaniye is an important location for those who want to experience the classic flavours of Istanbul. There are many restaurants with traces of Ottoman cuisine in the area.
Here are a few suggestions where you can try Iskender kebab around Suleymaniye Mosque:
Suleymaniye Kurufasulyecisi: Although it is famous for its dried beans, Iskender is also preferred among the meat dishes on its menu.
Ali Baba Kanaat Restaurant: A classic restaurant where you can find affordable and delicious Iskender kebab in a historical setting.
Source: İstanbul Valiliği
Price Range of Iskender Kebab in Istanbul
Although it varies according to the restaurants in Istanbul, average Iskender kebab prices as of 2025 vary between 450 TL and 600 TL. While this price may be higher in luxury places, it may remain at more reasonable levels in artisan restaurants.
