Liam SmithAlright, let me take you on a wild ride through Ottawa’s kebab scene that’ll have your taste buds throwing a party. Now, I’m no food critic: my cooking skills max out at burning toast and confusing baking soda for flour.
But even I know a good kebab when I see one—or smell one. True story: One night, I followed the aroma of sizzling kebab at a random street corner like some cartoon character—zero regrets!
So, whether you’re a kebab connoisseur or someone who thinks doner is a type of dinosaur (or is it just me?), check out this list of Ottawa’s best kebab spots. Fair warning: this list might make your drool!
Persis Grill – Preston
– Media credit: persisgrill
Address: 345 Preston St.
Contact details: +1 343 305 1432
Operating hours:
- Monday, Wednesday, and Thursday – 5 PM to 9:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 12 PM to 11 PM
- Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $$$
Persis Grill is a go-to spot for Persian-inspired eats that really hit the flavour jackpot, especially when it comes to kebab. Their kebabs come perfectly grilled, with tender meat that’s seasoned just right.
Must-tries here are, of course, their signature beef koobideh, which is juicy and flavourful, and the ridiculously tender chicken kebabs. For hearty combinations, the Sultani kabab offers beef skewers with grilled tenderloin, while the Vaziri kabab pairs it with chicken breast skewers for the best of both worlds.
Plus, their homemade bread and sides like mast moosir (yoghurt with garlic shallots and Zeitoon Parvardeh (marinated green olives with walnuts and pomegranate) bring everything together.
| Pro tip: If you’re coming with a big group or family, their sharing plates are the way to go—you’ll get a variety of kebabs, sides, and dips that everyone can dig into without stressing over individual orders. |
Turkish Anatolia Restaurant
Address: 4434 Innes Rd.
Contact details: +1 613 834 0112
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Cost: $$
Turkish Anatolia Restaurant has your back if you’re on the hunt for seriously good kebabs. Their approach to kebabs is authentic and rich with Turkish tradition—think layers of marinated meats, bold spices, and perfectly grilled skewers.
If you’re feeling indecisive, the Mix Kebab Combo for two is an easy recommendation—it’s stacked with favourites like Adana kebab, beer doner, chicken wings, beef and chicken sis, rice or bulgur, and sides.
It’s one of those dishes that gives you a little taste of everything without having to choose just one. And to keep things fun and fresh, Turkish Anatolia switches up its offerings, so you’ll always find something unique worth trying.
| Pro tip: Their garlic sauce is a sleeper hit—make sure you snag some extra for dipping! |
Pita Bell Kabab
– Media credit: pitabellkebab
Address: 1696 Carling Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 686 1740
Operating hours:
- Monday and Tuesday, Thursday to Saturday – 11 AM to 10 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Pita Bell Kabab specialises in serving up incredible skewers that are marinated with traditional Turkish spices and grilled just right. The menu is stacked with variety, from full plates to sandwiches and family-sized options for when you’re feeding a crowd.
If you’re looking for a slam-dunk option here, go for their Family 10 skewers set. You’ll get a mix of kebabs—from regular kabab to chicken and fillet mignon kabab—served with sides like their fresh bread and garlic sauce.
If you’re into handheld meals, their kabab sandwiches are worth checking out too, especially if you’re craving something quick.
| Pro tip: Keep an eye on their Pita Bell pies section while you’re at it—it’s something people don’t always notice first, but definitely stands out! |
Turkish Kebab House
– Media credit: turkishkebabhouse.ca
Address: 471 Terry Fox Dr Unit 120, Kanata
Contact details: +1 613 271 0000
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 9:30 PM
Cost: $$$
Turkish Kebab House has quickly become a favourite for anyone living in or around Kanata North, and it’s not hard to see why. Their kebabs are cooked fresh, seasoned beautifully, and served with generous portions that make you want to come back again.
You’ll definitely want to try their mixed grill plates—each has a little bit of everything, showcasing their signature skewers like chicken, lamb, and beef. It’s ideal for sharing or having all to yourself—I won’t judge!
Another standout is their Adana kebab, a spiced hand-minced beef option that’s as flavourful as it gets. And don’t skip their sides; bread and dips like garlic sauce and hummus definitely elevate the meal.
| Pro tip: Their portions are packed, so if you’re ordering takeout, make sure to grab some extra bread or dips! |
Cafe Tehran
– Media credit: cafetehran.ca
Address: 470 Rideau St.
Contact details: +1 613 860 8000
Operating hours:
- Monday to Thursday, Saturday, and Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
- Friday – 12 PM to 10 PM
Cost: $$
Cafe Tehran is the kind of spot you go to when you’re craving authentic Iranian kebabs done just right. They’re all about serving up traditional, flavourful dishes, with kebabs taking centre stage on their menu.
If you’re new to Persian cuisine, start with their koobideh kebab or zesty chicken kebab—both are crowd favourites and give you a solid taste of what makes Cafe Tehran good. Oh, and they’ve also got some Persian stews and appetisers that are worth exploring.
Also, be on the lookout for daily specials—you might just stumble on something new! Currently, they have koobideh combo, chicken and barberry combo, and more.
| Pro tip: Don’t skip the extras like their Persian-style yoghurt or grilled tomatoes—they’re simple but take the meal to another level. |
Saffron Kabab Restaurant
– Media credit: saffronkababottawa
Address: 1729 Bank St Unit 105
Contact details: +1 613 260 2229
Operating hours:
- Monday to Saturday – 11:30 AM to 9 PM
- Sunday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $$$
Saffron Kabab Restaurants focuses on delivering incredibly succulent and flavourful meats. They’ve mastered the traditional Persian methods, making every dish they serve feel like you’re getting an authentic taste of Iran.
If you’re just getting started at Saffron Kabab, don’t miss out on the barg kabob, which features fillet mignon, or the soltani kabob, giving you the best of both worlds with a skewer each of fillet mignon and ground beef.
And if you’re in a hurry, their kabob sandwiches are perfect for grabbing and going without sacrificing any flavour. Definitely keep an eye out for their modest but diverse menu–it’s packed with more than just tasty kabobs!
| Pro tip: If you’re dining with a group or family, try their Sultan Family combo—it’s got a bit of everything: bars, kabob skewers, chicken barg or breast, chicken drums, and even soup! It’s ideal for sharing and gives everyone a chance to taste everything. |
Khokha Eatery
– Media credit: themillenialmazee
Address: 605 Longfields Dr Unit 13
Contact details: +1 613 440 3999
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Friday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
- Saturday – 12 PM to 8 PM
Cost: $
Khokha Eatery celebrates authentic spices and traditional recipes in a way that feels fresh and modern. Their kebabs? Let’s talk about how good they are!
The chapli kabab plate is one dish you don’t want to miss—it comes with two Peshawari-spiced beef patties served alongside warm naan and mint chutney. It’s hearty, deeply spiced, and absolutely packed with flavour!
Beyond their incredible kebabs, Khokha Eatery has a knack for blending the warm street-style vibes of Pakistan with a refined touch. Some of the must-tries are the butter chicken poutine and Khokha wings—both of these are our go-to food comfort!
| Pro tip: Khokha Eastery offers catering services, so whether you’re feeding a big crowd or want a killer spread of Pakistani street food, they’ve got you covered! |
Mezbaan Restaurant
– Media credit: mezbaanafghankitchen
Address: 3098 Carling Ave Unit 8, Nepean
Contact details: +1 613 854 3500
Operating hours:
- Monday to Sunday – 11 AM to 11 PM
Cost: $$
Mezbaan Restaurant is not flashy or over-the-top; the vibe here is casual yet welcoming, like walking into a spot where you know the food’s going to be good. A simple, clean setup makes it approachable.
Now let’s talk about their kebabs, which are their absolute standout speciality. These aren’t your ordinary kebabs; Mezbaan goes all in with authentic spices, top-quality meats, and that smokey, charred perfection.
You’ll want to start with their chicken breast kebab, which balances a soft texture with an incredible spice blend. Another solid choice is the Vaziri Kabob—you’ll get to taste both skewer shami kabob and skewer chicken breast or thigh.
| Pro tip: If you’re coming with a group or family, check out their family packs—it’s the perfect way to get a variety of their best dishes at a great price, with portion sizes that’ll keep everyone happy. |
Salang Kabob House
– Media credit: salangkabobs
Address: 2934 Carling Ave.
Contact details: +1 613 820 0007
Operating hours:
- Tuesday to Sunday – 12 PM to 9 PM
Cost: $
Salang Kabob House has built a solid reputation for serving some of the best Afghan and Pakistani cuisine in Ottawa, and it’s all thanks to their dedication to authenticity and flavour.
Their kebabs, as the name suggests, are the star of the show. You must try their best-sellers, starting with the naan & kabob beef shami and the naan & kabob beef tikka.
Both options highlight the incredible flavour combinations they’re known for, plus their nan is always soft, fresh, and the ultimate pairing for their juicy kebabs. Their chutneys and sauces are no joke, either—make sure to use them generously!
| Pro tip: Salang Kabob House also offers 10- or 20-pack meal bundles that come with a little bit of everything. These are perfect for sharing with friends, family gatherings, or even celebrations when you need a variety of flavours. |
Supreme Kabob House
– Media credit: bigtummies_
Address: 2750 Iris St.
Contact details: +1 613 596 9777
Operating hours:
- Monday – 11:30 AM to 7 PM
- Wednesday and Thursday, Sunday – 11:30 AM to 7:30 PM
- Friday and Saturday – 11:30 AM to 8 PM
Cost: $
Supreme Kabob House is tucked into the heart of the neighbourhood, making it a solid choice whether you’re picking up a quick meal or just because. The setting itself is straightforward and clean, catering perfectly to takeout or casual visits.
The kabobs here are, of course, the showstopper. Their chicken breast kabob and chaplee kabob come highly rated by regulars—they’re loaded with seasoning and cooked to perfection. If you’re on the hunt for something luxurious, the lamb tikka kebab is a fan favourite that stands out.
Whether it’s chicken, beef, or lamb, this spot’s cooking has a way of making you forget the concept of leftovers. Best of all, their portions are generous, so bring your appetite—or order for tomorrow’s lunch too.
| Pro tip: If you’re ordering for multiple people, this spot is a win because the kebab platters make shareable portions super easy without cutting into flavour. |
