On February 26, the 13th British Kebab Awards took place at the Park Plaza Westminster Hotel in London, unveiling the best kebab restaurants, takeaways, and vans from across the UK. This year’s winners showcased a diverse array of culinary excellence, hailing from regions including Dorset, Buckinghamshire, Glasgow, and Liverpool. Among the highlights of the evening, Burwell Kebab Van in Cambridge was awarded Kebab Van of the Year, while Master Kebabs in Gillingham and Zem Kebab in High Wycombe received the titles for Best Regional Takeaway.

“The winners of the 2025 British Kebab Awards demonstrate the strength of the industry, with outstanding establishments in every corner of the nation,” said Ibrahim Dogus, founder of the British Kebab Awards, emphasizing the significance of the event. The awards celebrate the unique qualities of the British kebab industry, including diversity, quality, tradition, and innovation. Dogus remarked that chefs are continually reinventing and refining classic kebabs, ensuring that each of this year’s winners brings something new to the table.

The British Kebab Awards aim to recognize the hard work and dedication of those in the kebab industry. There are over 20,000 kebab businesses employing more than 200,000 people across the UK.

“The idea of British Kebab Award was to put the kebab industry on the map, ensuring that those working tirelessly in these businesses are appreciated, acknowledged, and rewarded.” Dogus explained.

He drew from his personal experiences in the industry to create the awards, feeling there was a lack of recognition for entry-level workers.

This year’s ceremony witnessed a remarkable turnout, with over 9,000 nominations submitted. Judges narrowed it down to 225 participants, and later 33 finalists, after visiting some of the businesses, evaluating factors such as food hygiene, quality, and customer satisfaction.

Dogus noted that many newcomers made it to the finals for the first time this year, reflecting the industry’s growth. He also highlighted the exceptional quality of ingredients available in Britain. “Welsh lamb and Scottish beef are among the best for meat-based kebabs,” he said, adding that his personal favorite is a Welsh lamb kebab marinated in tomato and pepper paste, grilled to perfection over charcoal.