Spreading out over three floors in downtown Taksim, Zübeyir Ocakbaşı was opened in 2006 by the grill-master Zübeyir and has since established a reputation as one of the best grills in Istanbul. The restaurant is renowned for its traditional Turkish grilled meats, especially kebabs.
Diners can enjoy dishes like lamb skewers and gavurdağı salad, prepared over an open coal fire, with the restaurant’s ambiance reflecting a traditional style, with an open charcoal grill at its center.
Quick Facts
| Turkish name | Zübeyir Ocakbaşı |
|---|---|
| Address | Şehit Muhtar Mahallesi, Bekar Sokak No:28, 34435 Beyoğlu, İstanbul Google MapsApple MapsYandex Maps |
| District | Beyoğlu |
| Best time to visit | Weekday lunches (11:30–14:00) and early evenings (17:00–18:30) are quieter. Evenings from 19:00 onwards and all weekend hours are busy and lively, with the atmosphere more crowded and spirited.Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable dining if you prefer to sit near the open grill without intense heat or cold. Summer evenings are popular but warm due to the central charcoal fire. Winter is cool but the coal fire creates warmth indoors. |
| Recommended duration | 1–2 hours |
| Cuisine | Turkish kebab and grilled meats |
| Reservations | Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for evenings and weekends. The restaurant fills quickly and booking in advance ensures you secure a table near the central grill or away from it, depending on your preference. Walk-ins are accepted when space permits, but may face a wait during peak hours. |
| Website | zubeyirocakbasi.com.tr |
Reservations and Ordering at Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Reservations are essential. Due to its popularity, the restaurant can get very busy, especially during peak hours, requiring reservations to secure a table. Call the restaurant at +90 212 293 39 51 or book through the official website (zubeyirocakbasi.com.tr) to reserve in advance, especially for dinner and weekends.
Walk-in guests without reservations may be accommodated if tables are available, but you may face a wait during peak hours (typically 19:00–23:00). Same-day reservations by phone may be possible if you call early in the afternoon.
The restaurant accepts credit cards. No voucher exchange or special ticketing applies; simply pay at the end of your meal.
Why Visit Zübeyir Ocakbaşı?
Zübeyir Ocakbaşı is highly praised for its fantastic service, delicious grilled dishes prepared right next to diners, and warm atmosphere. Many reviewers highlight the lamb chops as a standout, noting their tenderness, juiciness, and flavorful seasoning, while the Adana kebab and liver skewers also receive praise for their unique and well-balanced flavors. All grilled items are prepared on a coal barbecue in the middle of the room and you can even sit next to it and watch the chef prepare and cook your kebab.
Highlights of Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Lamb Chops
Lamb chops are noted for their tenderness, juiciness, and flavorful seasoning. Order a portion and sit near the central grill to watch the chefs work. The meat is grilled over charcoal and arrives at your table sizzling. This is the signature dish most visitors ask for.
Tip: Peak hours are from 19:00 onwards; arrive earlier or book ahead to avoid the longest waits.
Adana Kebab
The Adana kebab receives praise for its unique and well-balanced flavors. This spiced minced-meat kebab is grilled on a flat metal skewer over the central charcoal fire. It comes with grilled vegetables and flatbread to wrap around it.
Tip: Ask your server where to sit if you want a clear view of the grilling process; some tables have better sightlines than others.
Liver Skewers (Ciğer Çöp Şiş)
Liver skewers receive praise for their unique and well-balanced flavors. The pieces of liver are marinated and grilled on skewers, then served immediately. This is a less common choice for international visitors but popular with regulars.
Tip: This dish is an acquired taste; try it if you enjoy organ meats, or skip it if you prefer more familiar cuts.
Gavurdağı Salad
Gavurdağı salad goes nicely with their legendary kebab dishes. This traditional Turkish meze consists of finely chopped tomatoes, peppers, and onions with a tangy pomegranate molasses dressing. It arrives fresh and bright, providing a counterbalance to the rich grilled meats.
Tip: Order this as a starter to pace your meal while waiting for the main grilled dishes to cook.
Grilled Eggplant (Kozde Patlican)
Grilled eggplant (kozde patlican) is a highly recommended starter. The whole eggplant is charred over the fire until blackened, then peeled and served warm with yogurt and a drizzle of oil. It has a smoky, rich flavor.
Tip: This dish only works if you like eggplant; it's not a standalone side but part of the meze selection.
Beyti Kebab
The garlicky beyti kebab with a brilliant yogurt dip is a must-try. This is a rolled kebab made from minced meat mixed with herbs, grilled in a flat wrap, and served with a cooling yogurt sauce. It's rich and aromatic.
Tip: Beyti is hearty; if you order it, skip extra starters or share it among the table.
What to Order
- Lamb chops
- Adana kebab
- Liver skewers (Ciğer çöp şiş)
- Gavurdağı salad
- Beyti kebab
Atmosphere
The restaurant’s ambiance is described as cozy and authentic, with vintage decor and photos adding to its charm. The three-floor layout is spread across the building with the central charcoal grill as the focal point on the ground floor, creating theater around the cooking process. The atmosphere is generally described as stylish and inviting, though some reviewers point out concerns about loud music and ventilation. A high number of tourists enjoy their kebabs, though the restaurant does its kebabs in the eastern way, meaning it is not a touristy place. The evenings and weekends are lively and crowded; weekday lunches are quieter.
History of Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
The foundations of Zübeyir Ocakbaşı were laid in 1986 when two brothers, Hamit and Zübeyir, entered the grilling sector. The restaurant was established in 2006 by grill-master Zübeyir.
Spreading out over three floors, Zübeyir Ocakbaşı was opened in 2006 by the grill-master Zübeyir and has since established a reputation as one of the best grills in Istanbul.
How to Get to Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
The restaurant is located on Bekar Sokak in the Şehit Muhtar neighborhood, a five-minute walk from Taksim Square.
From Taksim Square: Exit the square at its northwest corner and walk downhill on Sıraselviler Caddesi (away from the square center). After one block, turn right onto Bekar Sokak. The restaurant entrance is on your left, marked with a subtle sign. Look for the street-level windows and the interior grill visible from outside.
Metro: The nearest metro station is Taksim (M2 line), a 7–10 minute walk away. Exit the station and follow directions above.
By taxi or ride-share: Give the driver the address: Bekar Sokak No: 28, Beyoğlu. The street is narrow and sometimes congested; if your driver cannot reach the exact address, ask to be dropped at Sıraselviler Caddesi and walk the remaining 100 meters.
Accessibility
The restaurant is spread over three floors connected by stairs. Ground floor: where the central grill is located and most seating. The stairs to upper floors are narrow and steep. There is no elevator. Accessibility is listed as an amenity; high chairs are available. Wheelchair users should inquire by phone before visiting, as the multi-floor layout and central grill placement present challenges.
Food Nearby
The neighborhood around Taksim Square and Bekar Sokak has numerous restaurants, cafes, and food vendors. İstiklal Caddesi, the main pedestrian street one block away, hosts hundreds of eating options from cheap street food to formal restaurants. If you need to eat earlier or later than Zübeyir's opening hours, the area is well-supplied with alternatives.
What to Bring
Wear clothes that can tolerate the smell of charcoal smoke; the grilling is vigorous and smoke lingers. A light layer is useful for early spring or late autumn. No special items are needed. Photography is permitted inside; a phone or camera is useful for capturing the central grill.
Photography Rules
Interior photography is permitted throughout the restaurant. The central charcoal grill is the most photogenic area; ask other diners or staff if they mind being in the background. No flash is necessary given the ambient light from the grill and restaurant lighting. Tripods are not needed and would obstruct the narrow space.
Family Suitability
The restaurant is family-friendly and welcomes children. High chairs are available for very young children. The open grill and charcoal fire pose no direct hazard (it is enclosed), but the smoke and noise may bother very small children. Strollers are impractical due to stairs and tight spaces on the ground floor near the grill; a carrier is better. Older children (5+) typically enjoy watching the cooking process. The menu caters to meat-eaters; vegetarian options are limited to salads and grilled vegetables.
Istanbul Vibes Tips
- Book your table several days in advance if visiting on a Friday or Saturday evening. Same-day reservations often fail due to full occupancy.
- Request ground-floor seating when you call to reserve if you want to watch the grill; upper floors have a quieter, less theatrical experience.
- Start with meze (small plates) like gavurdağı salad and grilled eggplant before ordering kebabs. This paces the meal and lets you share small tastes.
- Ask your server which meat cuts arrived freshest that day; the restaurant sources daily, so quality varies. Lamb is generally more consistent than beef.
- Bring cash or a card; the restaurant accepts both, but check your bank's coverage in Turkey before relying on foreign cards.
- Allow 1.5 to 2 hours for a full meal including waits between courses. If you are in a hurry, tell your server so they can prioritize your order.
Make an Outing of Your Visit to Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Zübeyir Ocakbaşı is within walking distance of places that pair well with a meal. A simple way to build the outing:
Before or after your meal
Istanbul Cinema Museum – about 250 m away (~4 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hoursOpen 11:00–19:00, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Mevlevi Museum – about 250 m away (~4 min walk) · typical visit: 45 minutes to 1.5 hours13 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open 09:00–18:30, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Atatürk Library – about 300 m away (~5 min walk) · typical visit: 2–3 hours11 min on foot from Kabataş metro, Open daily 09:00–21:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Time needed: plan about 6–8.5 hours for the whole outing, including the meal (roughly 1–1.5 hours), the places above and the walking between them.
Explore Nearby Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Metro stations near Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi – about 850 m away (~14 min walk)Open daily 06:00–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kabataş – about 950 m away (~15 min walk)Open daily 06:15–00:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Restaurants and cafes near Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Balkan Lokantasi – about 150 m away (~2 min walk)12 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 07:00–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Antakya Mutfağı – about 150 m away (~3 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 12:30–22:30Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topaz – about 200 m away (~3 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open 18:00–00:00, closed SunMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Kızılkayalar – about 250 m away (~4 min walk)11 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metro, Open daily 08:00–05:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Nightlife near Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
U2 Istanbul Irish Pub – about 50 m away (~1 min walk)14 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Bova Jazz Club – about 50 m away (~1 min walk)14 min on foot from Fındıklı-Mimar Sinan Üniversitesi metroMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Train stations and river piers near Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Kabataş Ferry Terminalabout 1.0 km away (~17 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Events and traditions near Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Istanbul Music Festivalabout 650 m away (~10 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Istanbul Film Festivalabout 1.4 km away (~23 min walk)Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Related guides
Taksim Square: Istanbul’s Central CrossroadsMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Galata Tower: Tickets, Views and 700 Years of History4 min on foot from Şişhane metro, Open daily 08:30–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Topane-i Amire Cultural and Art Center: Ottoman Foundry Transformed into Art Venue1 min on foot from Tophane metro, Open 10:00–18:00, closed MonMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Beyoğlu Nightlife Streets: Nevizade to AsmalımescitMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Best Rooftop Bars in Istanbul: Views and ReservationsMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
More guides
Ali Ocakbaşı Karaköy8 min on foot from Haliç metro, Open daily 12:00–23:00Main image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
AntiochiaMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Browse more: More in Beyoğlu · All Restaurants · All Turkish Cuisine
FAQ: Zübeyir Ocakbaşı
Do I need a reservation to eat here?
Reservations are strongly recommended, especially for dinner and weekends. Walk-ins are possible during quiet hours (weekday lunchtimes) but may face waits of 30+ minutes during peak times. Call +90 212 293 39 51 to reserve.
How much does a meal cost on average?
A full meal with appetizers, a main kebab dish, and a non-alcoholic drink typically falls into the upscale category for Istanbul. The price reflects the location near Taksim and the quality of meat used.
Can I visit without eating meat?
The menu is meat-focused; however, grilled vegetables (eggplant, peppers, tomatoes) and meze salads like gavurdağı are available and worth ordering. Vegetarians can make a satisfying meal from these sides.
How long does the restaurant stay open?
Monday–Friday: 12:00–00:00 (midnight). Saturday–Sunday: 11:00–00:00. The restaurant operates late, making it suitable for late-night dining.
What is the nearest metro station?
Taksim (M2 line) is the closest station, about a 7–10 minute walk away. From Taksim exit, head downhill and follow signs toward Bekar Sokak in the Şehit Muhtar area.
Can I bring my own drinks?
The restaurant does not allow outside drinks. Beer, wine, and rakı are available on the menu. Water and soft drinks are also served.
Is the restaurant accessible for wheelchair users?
Access is limited due to stairs connecting three floors and the narrow interior. Call ahead to discuss your needs; staff can seat you on the ground floor near the grill and assist, but a full wheelchair-accessible experience is not guaranteed.
What is the dress code?
There is no formal dress code. Casual dining attire is fine. Wear clothes that tolerate smoke smell, as the charcoal grill produces significant smoke.
Istanbul Vibes is a one-person project. A coffee keeps it going
Other restaurants nearby
- Borsa Lokantası (100 m) Google Maps
- Ist Cafe (100 m) Google Maps
- Askoroz Balikcisi (100 m) Google Maps
- M&N Cafe Brasserie (150 m) Google Maps
- Esmer (150 m) Google Maps
Distances are straight-line, from OpenStreetMap data.
Local Dishes to Try Here
Adana KebabMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
KebabMain image: AI-generated illustration. It may not show the place exactly as it looks.
Take this guide with you
Get a free PDF of this guide to print or read offline: key facts, tips and a map link on a few clean pages.
Report an issue on this page
How we research and update our guides
About this guide: AI assistance and accuracy
This guide is created with the help of AI and is based on official sources where available. Mistakes can still happen. Opening hours, prices, rules and other details are given to the best of our knowledge as of the date shown and can change without notice. It offers general recommendations only, not professional, legal or travel advice. Please confirm important details with the official source before you travel; you are responsible for your own plans and decisions.
* Affiliate link: as an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases at no extra cost to you.
