Saint Petersburg, with its cosmopolitan atmosphere, is a fantastic destination for food lovers, particularly those seeking Middle Eastern cuisine. The city’s diverse dining scene boasts a range of kebab restaurants that offer rich, flavorful dishes inspired by the Middle East and Central Asia. From classic kebabs to unique twists on traditional recipes, these restaurants promise an authentic taste of the Middle Eastern culinary tradition in the heart of Russia’s cultural capital.
Here’s a guide to the best kebab restaurants in Saint Petersburg for those craving mouth-watering Middle Eastern delights.
1. Sultan Lounge
For an upscale yet authentic Middle Eastern dining experience, Sultan Lounge is one of the finest places to enjoy kebabs in Saint Petersburg. The restaurant combines luxurious décor with delicious food, offering an exquisite selection of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern kebabs.
What to Expect:
- Wide Range of Kebab Options: Sultan Lounge serves a variety of kebabs, including lamb kebabs, chicken shish kebabs, and beef kebabs, all cooked to perfection on a charcoal grill.
- Authentic Middle Eastern Flavors: The dishes are prepared with traditional Middle Eastern spices, such as cumin, coriander, and sumac, giving each kebab its own distinctive flavor.
- Luxurious Ambiance: The restaurant’s interior is designed to evoke the elegance of the Middle East, with opulent seating, chandeliers, and beautiful patterns, making it perfect for both casual and special occasions.
Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the lamb kebabs, which are tender and juicy with a rich flavor that perfectly complements the restaurant’s array of dips and flatbreads.
2. Baranov’s Kebab
If you’re looking for a laid-back yet flavorful experience, Baranov’s Kebab is a must-visit. Known for its authentic kebabs and casual atmosphere, this restaurant specializes in Middle Eastern grilling techniques and serves a wide range of kebabs with fresh ingredients.
What to Expect:
- Classic Kebab Varieties: The restaurant offers lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs, as well as more adventurous options such as adana kebab and kebab wraps.
- Fresh Ingredients: The kebabs are cooked using fresh local meats and herbs, ensuring both authenticity and quality.
- Casual Dining: With its no-frills décor and relaxed environment, Baranov’s Kebab is perfect for a quick bite or casual gathering with friends.
Insider Tip:
Pair your kebabs with a pita bread or rice pilaf for a truly satisfying meal. The spicy sauces add an extra layer of flavor that enhances the kebabs.
3. Shashlychnaya
Located in the Vasilievsky Island area, Shashlychnaya offers an exceptional selection of grilled meats, with a particular focus on traditional Middle Eastern kebabs. This beloved eatery combines the art of grilling with authentic Middle Eastern flavors to create an unforgettable dining experience.
What to Expect:
- Variety of Kebab Skewers: From juicy lamb kebabs to chicken shish kebabs, Shashlychnaya serves expertly grilled skewers that are tender and packed with flavor.
- Authentic Grill Technique: The kebabs are grilled over charcoal, giving them a rich smoky flavor that’s characteristic of traditional Middle Eastern cooking.
- Warm, Welcoming Ambiance: The restaurant has a cozy, rustic feel with wooden tables and a lively, casual atmosphere that makes it a great place for group dining.
Insider Tip:
If you’re looking to try something special, order the Shashlyk platter to sample a variety of different kebabs and enjoy the full spectrum of grilled flavors.
4. Kebab House
With its focus on traditional recipes and high-quality ingredients, Kebab House is a great destination for those craving authentic kebabs in the heart of Saint Petersburg. Located near Nevsky Prospect, it offers a selection of Middle Eastern and Central Asian-inspired kebabs that will satisfy your cravings.
What to Expect:
- Generous Kebabs: Kebab House is known for its hearty kebabs, served with an assortment of side dishes like grilled vegetables, fresh salad, and pilaf.
- Flavors from the East: The kebabs are marinated with Middle Eastern spices and grilled to perfection, creating a tender, flavorful experience with each bite.
- Casual Dining: The environment is warm and relaxed, with friendly staff and a welcoming atmosphere that makes it perfect for a casual meal.
Insider Tip:
Be sure to try the kebab platter, which allows you to sample several different kebabs in one meal. It’s a great way to experience the variety of flavors that Kebab House has to offer.
5. Omar’s Kebab
Omar’s Kebab is a hidden gem for those seeking authentic Middle Eastern kebabs. This intimate restaurant focuses on grilling techniques passed down through generations, offering a more personal and flavorful kebab experience.
What to Expect:
- Traditional and Fusion Kebabs: Omar’s Kebab specializes in both traditional kebabs (like lamb and chicken) and more creative variations, such as grilled seafood kebabs.
- Quality Ingredients: The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, from the meats to the vegetables used for grilling.
- Homestyle Dining: The ambiance is comfortable and relaxed, with a homey feel that complements the high-quality food.
Insider Tip:
Try the grilled vegetables with your kebabs—these perfectly charred, smoky vegetables complement the meat beautifully.
6. Bashni
For those seeking an upscale experience while enjoying their Middle Eastern kebabs, Bashni offers a luxurious setting with a refined approach to classic grilled meats. The restaurant is known for combining Russian and Middle Eastern culinary influences, creating a sophisticated yet approachable dining experience.
What to Expect:
- Premium Kebabs: Bashni serves premium lamb, beef, and chicken kebabs, with a variety of dips and side dishes to elevate the flavor.
- High-End Ambiance: The restaurant’s elegant design features modern touches while maintaining a traditional atmosphere, perfect for a special night out.
- Tasting Menu: Bashni offers a tasting menu where you can sample a variety of different kebabs, allowing you to enjoy the full range of flavors.
Insider Tip:
Don’t skip the tasting platter that allows you to try several different types of kebabs paired with traditional sides like pilaf and flatbread.
7. Café Gusto
Known for its Italian-style dining, Café Gusto also offers Middle Eastern kebabs on its menu, creating a blend of global flavors. With a modern and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a fantastic spot for both locals and tourists.
What to Expect:
- Middle Eastern and Mediterranean Fusion: While Café Gusto focuses primarily on Italian cuisine, its kebabs are a standout feature, offering delicious grilled meats and Mediterranean sides.
- Quality Meats and Spices: The kebabs are marinated with the finest spices and served with fresh herbs and salads, making them both flavorful and healthy.
- Casual and Lively Ambiance: Café Gusto’s lively atmosphere, with its bright décor and energetic vibe, makes it a great spot for a fun meal with friends or family.
Insider Tip:
Pair your kebabs with a refreshing mint tea or a Middle Eastern soda for the perfect balance of flavors.
8. Shawarma House
Shawarma House brings the flavors of the Middle East to Saint Petersburg with a focus on authentic shawarma and kebabs. The restaurant serves generous portions of succulent kebabs, served in traditional wraps or on platters.
What to Expect:
- Authentic Shawarma and Kebabs: Shawarma House specializes in beef kebabs, chicken kebabs, and their signature shawarma sandwiches, made with perfectly seasoned, marinated meats.
- Casual Dining: The atmosphere is fast-casual, with a focus on providing fresh, flavorful meals that you can enjoy on the go or at the restaurant.
- Fresh and Flavorful: The meats are seasoned with classic Middle Eastern spices and cooked over an open flame, ensuring a smoky, tender taste.
Insider Tip:
Order the kebab wrap for a satisfying meal on the go or enjoy a kebab platter for a fuller experience with a side of rice and pickled vegetables.
9. Nargiz
Located near Nevsky Prospect, Nargiz serves Central Asian-style kebabs with a focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients. This restaurant is popular for its combination of Turkish, Uzbek, and Middle Eastern flavors.
What to Expect:
- Uzbek Kebabs: Nargiz offers Uzbek-style kebabs, including shashlik (grilled meat skewers), which are marinated in traditional spices and grilled over an open flame.
- Traditional Sides: The kebabs are served with pilaf, fresh flatbread, and a variety of vegetables, which enhance the smoky flavors of the grilled meats.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: The cozy yet vibrant interior reflects the lively energy of Central Asian dining, making it an enjoyable spot for lunch or dinner.
Insider Tip:
Don’t miss the shashlik platter, which lets you sample a variety of meats and enjoy traditional sides like Uzbek pilaf.
10. Zaffran
With its Mediterranean-inspired menu, Zaffran offers an exquisite dining experience with a variety of Middle Eastern kebabs. Known for its upscale atmosphere and flavorful dishes, it’s a great place to enjoy a refined take on grilled meats.
What to Expect:
- Mediterranean Kebabs: Zaffran’s kebabs are made with lamb, chicken, and beef, all marinated in spices and grilled to perfection.
- Elegant Ambiance: The restaurant features a chic, modern décor, perfect for an upscale meal. It’s ideal for romantic dinners or business lunches.
- Side Dishes: Enjoy your kebabs with traditional Mediterranean sides like tabbouleh, hummus, and pita bread.
Insider Tip:
Opt for the lamb kebabs, which are tender, juicy, and beautifully seasoned with Middle Eastern spices.
Conclusion
Saint Petersburg is home to a fantastic variety of kebab restaurants, offering an incredible range of Middle Eastern flavors and grilling techniques. Whether you’re looking for traditional shashlik at Shashlychnaya, luxurious kebabs at Sultan Lounge, or a casual kebab experience at Shawarma House, there’s a place for every taste. These restaurants offer not only the best in kebabs but also the full experience of Middle Eastern dining culture, from the grilled meats to the spices, sauces, and accompaniments.
