By Prashirwin Naidu
There’s a moment when good food settles the noise of the world. When flavour, warmth, and memory come together on a plate, reminding you that comfort sometimes arrives in the form of something grilled, spiced, and lovingly prepared. That’s precisely what happened on an unassuming evening in Sunninghill, when my parents whisked my partner, Jessyca, and me off to Xplore a hidden gem named Istanbul Kebab.
Tucked neatly in the Village Shopping Centre, Istanbul Kebab is the sort of restaurant you discover accidentally and then return to deliberately. The space is intimate and unpretentious, its charm lying in the aromas wafting from the kitchen; smoky meats, warm bread, and spices that hint at both tradition and generosity. The restaurant serves halal Turkish-Mediterranean cuisine, crafted with an authenticity that shines through every dish.
A Warm Welcome, Turkish Style
True to the spirit of Turkish hospitality, the experience begins before the food arrives. Staff greet you with a relaxed friendliness that immediately puts you at ease. There’s no rush, no pretence — just the promise of a good, hearty meal.
We eased into the evening with a focaccia slider: half chicken, half lamb, all drenched in cheesy, golden goodness. It arrived soft, warm, and utterly irresistible — the kind of starter that says, pace yourself, even though you know you won’t.
Flavours That Speak the Language of Home
For mains, Istanbul Kebab serves generosity on a plate. My choice, the chicken kebab, was a revelation: succulent, juicy cuts grilled to smoky perfection, served with crisp chips and fresh naan warm enough to melt butter. A trio of dips — Greek yoghurt, sweet sauce, and a fiery red chilli — elevated every bite.
Jessyca’s chicken wrap delivered simple satisfaction, wrapped tightly and packed with flavour. My parents, however, ordered the triumphant showpiece: a mixed platter boasting lamb chops, cutlets, chips, and an assortment of expertly grilled meats. Each piece was tender, fragrant, and layered with spice. The naan, pillowy and aromatic, tied everything together. It was food that didn’t need theatrics — it carried its own sincerity.
A Feast Served With Heart
There’s something unmistakable about Turkish dining: the unhurried pace, the open-handed portions, the sense that eating together is a celebration in itself. Istanbul Kebab captures that spirit effortlessly. Many diners often mention complimentary Turkish tea or a small sweet treat at the end — touches that turn a meal into a moment.
Why Istanbul Kebab Belongs on Your Must-Visit List? They are an honest, soulful Turkish cuisine, halal-friendly menu options, and warm, attentive service, excellent value —generous portions at accessible prices and perfect for family gatherings, casual dates, or comfort-driven nights out
If you’re searching for a space where flavour takes the lead and hospitality is woven into every interaction, Istanbul Kebab is a place worth lingering in. It isn’t flamboyant or fussy. Instead, it offers something better — a genuine taste of Turkey, served with heart, right here in Johannesburg.
Whether you’re craving smoky kebabs, golden chips, tender lamb, or simply the feeling of being taken care of, you’ll find it in this little corner of Sunninghill. And like any good discovery, it leaves you plotting your return before you’ve even left the table.
