İskender Kebab - Bursa
İskender Kebab is a masterpiece kneaded with the soil and heritage of Bursa, carrying the trace of craftsmanship and history in every bite. Developed with great skill by İskender Efendi in 1867, this recipe has become one of the most recognized and beloved flavors of Turkish cuisine.
Thinly sliced meat, cooked as döner over wood charcoal, is served over cubed torn pide bread, topped with hot melted butter and tomato sauce, and accompanied by yogurt. This elegant combination sets İskender Kebab apart from all other kebabs. The steam rising from the butter and the mingling aromas with the sauce evoke the history of Bursa in every bite.
İskender Kebab is not just a main dish; it is the pride of Bursa's tables, an indispensable part of holiday breakfasts, and a favorite at guest gatherings. It is still prepared using traditional methods in many homes, and every Bursa family living outside the city ensures it has a place on their table at least once.
Its presentation in historic Bursa restaurants, served on copper plates with hot melted butter poured over, turns this meal into a spectacle. Its aroma, sound, and appearance appeal to all the senses.
Although its origins lie in the richness of Ottoman cuisine, its unique character today owes much to Bursa's mastery in meat processing, oven culture, and ingredient quality. The best İskender is made with a blend of lamb and beef, homemade tomato sauce, and strained yogurt. However, the true secret of this flavor is the respect for labor, patience, and technique.
While known all across Turkey today, the true home of İskender is Bursa. This unique dish, where history meets flavor, does more than satisfy hunger; it carries memories, traditions, and the warmth of the table.
İskender Kebab represents the gourmet essence of Bursa's cuisine in its most authentic, balanced, and elegant form.
Gourmet Restaurant Recommendations
Kebapçı İskender 1876 - Bursa
Kebapçı İskender 1876 is a world-famous and historic culinary landmark that has become a symbol of Bursa. Founded in 1876 by İskender Efendi, the inventor of İskender Kebab, this longstanding and authentic establishment has been managed by the same family for five generations. Located just steps from the historic Ulu Mosque, Kebapçı İskender is renowned for its carefully selected beef, traditional wood charcoal grilling technique, special butter, village yogurt, and finely sliced presentation style. Attracting thousands of both local and international visitors, the venue is celebrated for its authentic atmosphere, unwavering commitment to quality, and status as a cultural heritage, making it a true gastronomic legend.
Address & Contact:
Uludağ Kebapçısı- Bursa
Uludağ Kebapçısı – Bursa is a long-established and beloved culinary institution located in the heart of the city, serving as an irreplaceable destination for kebab enthusiasts. Founded under the leadership of Cemal & Cemil Usta, this venue is renowned for its unique take on classic Bursa kebab and expertly grilled meats. The perfect balance of meat texture, wood-fire cooking method, and the finishing touch of fresh butter elevate the flavor to its peak. Conveniently situated near Kent Meydanı Shopping Mall, it offers easy access for both local and out-of-town visitors. With its friendly service, elegant atmosphere, and traditional presentation style, Uludağ Kebapçısı remains one of the precious restaurants preserving Bursa's rich kebab culture.
AI Tasting Note
Flavor intensity: Tender slices of meat served with rich yogurt and butter, harmonized with special spices, creating a signature Iskender kebab from Bursa, Turkey.
Palate experience: The warm meat of the Iskender blends perfectly with the creamy texture of yogurt and the richness of butter. Served with hot pita and delicious sauce, it leaves a lasting taste on the palate.
Lunch & dinner preference rate: Consumption increases by 78% between 12:00 PM and 9:00 PM.
Satiation level: High
Serving suggestion: Serve with hot pita, fresh greens, and ayran. A plain beverage is recommended to accompany the yogurt and butter.
📌 Did you know?
Iskender Kebab is named after Iskender Efendi, who first served this dish in Bursa, Turkey.