4Th British Kebab Awards (2016) Full Shortlist Is Inside!

March 2016 - Issue 3 www.britishkebabawards.co.uk

The Meat of the Kebab Industry

4th British Kebab Awards (2016) Full Shortlist is inside!

In association with British Kebab Awards

2 British Kebab Awards

3 British Kebab Awards British Kebab Awards 4th Year The British kebab industry contributes over £2.2 billion annually to the British economy, supporting around 200,000 jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the food industry in the UK.

The British kebab industry contributes the various restaurants, suppliers and Special Thanks over £2.2 billion annually to the British workers make to the UK. economy, supporting around 200,000 We would like to say a special thank jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the The British Kebab Awards honour the you to JUST EAT, our main sponsor, food industry in the UK. dedication, hard work and commitment and Nadhim Zahawi MP, Keith Vaz of individuals in the catering and MP, Jonathan Reynolds MP, Mustafa Kebabs have become a Great British restaurant industry who has helped the Topkaya, Serpil Ersan, Ali Matur, Altan institution. And they’re big business, love of kebab to spread throughout the Kemal, Rami Ranger, Shany Gupta, with an estimated 1.3m kebabs sold UK and contributed to make the kebab Samson Sohail, Metin Pekin, Onder by vendors every day in the UK. Over industry to become the growing, thriving Sahan, Rami Ranger, Big K, Andy 20,000 kebab outlets in the UK selling sector that it is today. Woods, Nigel Dickens, Mustafa Demir, around 2,500 tonnes of lamb and Isbankasi, Hakan Topkaya, Bektas chicken doner a week. These awards are the first steps toward Kurt, The Meze Turkish Grill, Erol evaluating the kebab industry’s Coban, Kemal Has, Sabri Barackilic, The British kebab industry contributes contribution to the UK; to research, Alp Ceylan, Tony Manconi, Halil over £2.2 billion annually to the British measure and represent findings in Zurnacioglu, Ibrahim Uzun, Total economy, supporting around 200,000 statistical form. This is the norm in other Shopfitting Solutions, Turkish Bank, jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the catering sectors. We have worked towards Asset Management, Ashok Sodha, food industry in the UK. There are also continually measuring the size of the Samsun’s Specialty Kebab and Pizza around 200 doner kebab manufacturers market while also analysing the economic House, Dylon Hunt, Kemal Gondas, in the UK, with a turnover in excess of and social impacts that the industry has £750m. on the UK. The object of the awards is Pegasus Airlines, Savas Hurman, to highlight and acknowledge the best of AV Media Arts Limited, Last Man British Kebab Awards (2016) in its the kebab industry from all over Britain, Multimedia and Madhu’s for their fourth year have received thousands including local producers, restaurants, great support. We would like to thank of nominations across Great Britain. chefs, restaurateurs, and takeaways. our team Buket Bora, Timur Ekingen, Thousands of kebab businesses across Merve Akansel, Leyla Aksakal and our UK have kindly been nominated by Our judging panel is comprised of volunteers Aa’la Rajput, Azize Cay, Ozge kebab eaters of Britain. Nominations experts from the industry and members Kaya, Basak Demirkol, Edward Rowe, in 16 categories have been meticulously of parliament, and our judges are a Alexander Segall, Iva Spahiu and Conor assessed for the final shortlist. More and vital component of the validity and Macgregor for their great work and more kebab businesses are recognised for robustness of the results. Our judges support to organise the 4th British Kebab their good food and hard work. take every aspect of a product into Awards. Finally, we also would like to consideration-rewarding great flavours, thank all the Members of the Houses The British Kebab Awards, founded by high-quality ingredients, value for money of Parliament who have taken the time the Centre for Turkey Studies (www. and customer service which increases out to vote towards these awards and for ceftus.org), aims to shed light on this the retail success of a product and the recognising the contribution that the established industry, to recognise the nominees are awarded under 16 different kebab outlets and workers have made to cultural and economic contributions that categories. their constituencies.

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British Kebab Awards The entrepreneurs behind British Kebab industry are the “ “ones who run their businesses with old-fashioned hard-work. They are the best of British-the risk-takers and job creators.

A Great British Institution. Ibrahim Dogus Founder and Director Centre for Turkey Studies From the biggest city to the smallest The entrepreneurs behind British Kebab village, from Cardiff to Carlisle, from industry are the ones who run their Aberdeen to Southampton, from Belfast businesses with old-fashioned hard- to Brighton, and of course not forgetting work. They are the best of British-the British Kebab Awards and its official Green Lanes in Haringey, there is a kebab risk-takers and job creators. That’s why magazine, British Kebab, is proud to be shop, filled with hard-working staff, we celebrate their achievements by celebrating a great British institution-the serving people a hot, filling meal. organising British Kebab Awards. kebab. So we celebrate the cultural contribution A panel of judges including MPs Nadhim The cuisine of this country reflects of the kebab. Zahawi, Jonathan Reynolds and Keith the changing population over many Vaz, helped to decide the winners of each centuries. As authors Sami Zubaida and Richard category. I know it wasn’t an easy job for Tipper have written: ‘There is a lot them, the competition was fierce. Chips-brought by French Huguenots more to food than eating and cooking. [HU-GO-KNOWS]. Behind every dish lies a world, a culture, Finally, we must thank the people whose a history. Dishes have social meaning, generous support has enabled these Curry-brought by Bangladeshis, they have emotional and symbolic awards to go ahead. The 2015 awards Pakistanis and Indians. significance. Food is about power. It is are sponsored by Just EAT, the world’s an expression of identity and ideology. leading online takeaway ordering service, And of course kebabs, brought by people It touches on issues of class, gender, race Also: Big K, Xpo-online, Cobra Beer from across the Middle East and Eastern and ethnicity. It is a clue to history. It has Alton & Co, Bulldog Energy Drinks and Mediterranean. a language’. Paragon Qualities Food.

When he was Foreign Secretary, the late, But it’s about more than culture. In I must acknowledge too the support of great Robin Cook suggested that chicken these harsh economic times, we have to Ceftus, the Centre for Turkey Studies, tikka massala was the UK’s national consider the pounds, shillings and pence. And the staff and volunteers who work dish, a combination of spicy chicken and Kebab shops, vans and restaurants are behind the scenes to make the British gravy. major players in the UK economy, Kebab Awards a success. with an estimated 1.3m kebabs sold by But dare I say that the kebab is also a vendors every day in the UK. Congratulations to all the businesses great British institution. nominated. You are all winners. The British kebab industry contributes The first kebab shop opened in North over £2.2 billion annually to the British The Kebab-part of our culture, cuisine London in 1960s and there are now economy, supporting around 200,000 and community. estimated over 20,000 kebab outlets jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the in the UK. Their popularity slowly food industry in the UK. There are also Truly A Great British Institution. increased in the 1970s and 1980s with around 200 doner kebab manufacturers the influx of Turkish and Greek Cypriots in the UK, with a turnover in excess of and Kurdish communities. £750m. 5

British Kebab Awards The UK’s food and drink sector makes an important “ “ contribution to the British economy, with over 1.4 million working in the catering sector alone.

“I am delighted to offer my who are being nominated for awards Rt Hon congratulations on behalf of the this year. I would like to thank you very Government, to everyone being much for British culture and hope you David Cameron honoured. The UK’s food and drink have a great evening.” Prime Minister and Leader of the sector makes an important contribution Conservative Party to the British economy, with over 1.4 million working in the catering

sector alone. The Kebab has an ever growing role in British social life and its

popularity as a food is owed in no small part to the talented restaurants and chefs The British Kebab industry continues to grow year “ “after year and contributes over £2.2 billion to Britain’s economy every year.

I am delighted to send this message they recognise the hard work that Rt Hon of support for the 4th British Kebab restauranteurs and chefs do. I wish you Awards. The British Kebab industry all my best wishes, for another superb Jeremy Corbyn MP continues to grow year after year awards ceremony in 2016. Labour Leader and contributes over £2.2 billion to Britain’s economy every year. Kebabs are now a firm favourite in many British households.

Workers and SME’s in British Kebab industry have worked incredibly hard to get where they are today. British Kebab Awards are now an important part of the food awards in Britain, because 6

British Kebab Awards Together, we’ll continue to help our restaurant partners “ “flourish, and generate even more success stories like the ones you’ll hear tonight.

Graham Corfield UK Managing Director at JUST EAT Tonight we’re celebrating the hard work and success of kebab restaurants across the UK.

JUST EAT is proud to sponsor the fourth annual British Kebab Awards, and I would like to take this opportunity to congratulate all of tonight’s nominated restaurants and applaud their passion, quality and dedication.

The kebab industry has a special place in the nation’s hearts, yet let’s not forget the phenomenal economic contribution it makes to the UK as well. The thriving businesses we celebrate tonight are the lifeblood of many of our high streets.

I’d also like to commend our assembled restaurateurs on their continued innovation when it comes to recognising growing trends. With more and more consumers craving choice and healthy options, the kebab industry has continued to deliver.

We’re proud to work alongside restaurants in the kebab industry, and help them build on generations of hard work and passion. Together, we’ll continue to help our restaurant partners flourish, and generate even more success stories like the ones you’ll hear tonight.

So here’s to a wonderful evening and another year of continued growth and prosperity in 2016.

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British Kebab Awards That this Awards is now in its fourth year shows clearly “ “how well the sector is thriving, and how many Londoners enjoy the occasional kebab.

“As Mayor of the gastronomic capital Boris Johnson that is London, I am delighted to Mayor of London congratulate the many small businesses and restaurants who contribute a great treat to this scene - the kebab! That this Awards is now in its fourth year shows clearly how well the sector is thriving,

and how many Londoners enjoy the occasional kebab.

Yours ever.” The British Kebab Awards celebrates the uniquely British “ “twist on an eastern dish and the contribution it makes to our national gastronomy.

“Britain has a diverse food culture Nadhim Zahawi and a national obsession with kebabs Conservative MP reflects that fantastically. The British for Stratford on Avon Kebab Awards celebrates the uniquely British twist on an eastern dish and the contribution it makes to our national gastronomy. We should also recognise that Kebab houses are usually small, family businesses where everyone works extremely hard and with trying hours. We should praise them for having what it takes to succeed in a competitive market where taste, quality and service really matters.”

8 British Kebab Awards

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British Kebab Awards Kebab businesses make a key contribution to the UK “ “economy; and particularly to the hundreds of high streets that benefit from a thriving kebab restaurant.

“Thank you for your recent streets that benefit from a thriving kebab Rt Hon Theresa May communication regarding the British restaurant. It is important to recognise Kebab Awards on 7th January 2015. the hard work that many people have MP I am sorry that I am not able to be put into building up these successful Secretary of State for the Home with you for this event, but I would businesses across the country. Best wishes Department like to send my best wishes and to once again for the Awards.” congratulate you on the success of the

Awards in celebrating the British kebab industry. Kebab businesses make a key

contribution to the UK economy; and particularly to the hundreds of high The UK’s cultural diversity brings a wealth of benefits, “ “ including to our cuisine.

“The UK’s cultural diversity brings a Rt Hon John wealth of benefits, including to our cuisine. Our catering and restaurant Whittingdale MP industry is thriving, and it’s great to Culture Secretary see the Kebab Awards recognise the entrepreneurial spirit and hard work of these businesses up and down the country.”

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British Kebab Awards Kebab businesses make a key contribution to the UK “ “economy; and particularly to the hundreds of high streets that benefit from a thriving kebab restaurant.

“The kebab shop is a staple of most high Tonight is a celebration of the best of Rt Hon Chris Grayling streets across the UK. And there can’t the kebab industry, of the quality cuisine be many people – particularly former to be found in kebab restaurants, and of MP students – who haven’t stopped for a few course of the enjoyment that we have all Lord Chancellor and Secretary of late night kebabs in their time. had of a tasty kebab. State for Justice But of course there is much more to the My best wishes to everyone involved, and kebab than simply a light night snack congratulations to the winners.”

after an evening out. There is some really high quality cooking in the sector,

and kebab restaurants offer some of the tastiest meals out. I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to all “ “those that have been nominated for awards this evening.

“Best wishes to everyone attending the Alok Sharma MP 4th British Kebab Awards in London. I would like to extend my heartiest congratulations to all those that have been nominated for awards this evening. The kebab industry is an important part of the food sector in the UK and many of those work within it are hard-working entrepreneurs who deserve admiration and thanks.” 11 British Kebab Awards

Lord Sheikh Neil Coyle MP

“I think the British Kebab are a triumph of British “I am very happy to send this than 2.2 billion pounds to Awards are a fantastic way of multiculturalism and it is now message of support to the British economy every year recognising the contribution almost impossible to find a 4th British Kebab Awards. In and provides employment to the kebab industry makes to high street in my constituency United Kingdom we live in many persons. As someone every local community. The or elsewhere where the kebab a diverse community and the who loves kebabs I would like kebab industry contributes aren’t present! It is great to see kebabs cater for the culinary to offer my congratulations millions to the British the industry thriving and I needs of a large number to all the winners. I am sure economy every year and hope that it continues to do of people. The Awards will that the Kebab Industry and employs thousands of people so – providing jobs, food and certainly recognise the the Awards will go forward across the country. Kebabs a vital injection to UK plc.” various individuals and from strength to strength establishments who have and continue to provide excelled in the flourishing enjoyment to numerous Kebab Industry. The Kebab customers.” Industry contributes more

Andrew Mitchell MP

Baroness Hussein-Ece “I wish the Centre for Turkey Turkish community makes a Studies every success with huge contribution to life in the 4th British Kebab Award, Britain and I am delighted celebrating the contribution that this award will underline of the UK’s kebab businesses that.” to the British Economy. The “These are important There are thousands of people awards in recognition of employed in this industry and the significance of the kebabs have now become a kebab industry in the huge success story which has United Kingdom and the become a part of the British contribution it has made both Institution.” culturally and economically. Jonathan Reynolds Labour and Co-operative MP for Stalybridge and Hyde Angela Rayner MP

‘The British Kebab Awards are other communities to Britain. “The kebab industry is now a brilliant way to celebrate the Kebabs have become part of a staple of the British High success of so many fantastic our national way of life, and Street, which is a testament to small businesses in the UK, it is superb to see the British the hard work of hundreds of and the contribution made by Kebab Awards going from small businesses serving our Turkish, Kurdish and many strength to strength too.’ communities. “ 12 British Kebab Awards

Shabana Mahmood Andrew Percy MP MP Birmingham Ladywoo

“I am delighted to attend the able to honour those in the “The annual British Kebab kebab shop: they’re often 4th British Kebab Awards industry for their hard work Awards are a great way to open very late, sometimes 2016. Kebabs still prove to and contribution to the showcase this important being the last places open be ever popular in Britain British economy.” industry. Those who follow at night, and they provide a today and it is nice to be me on Twitter will know great option for those who all about my appetite for work unsociable hours – like a good kebab. I often find MPs. Also, as a big fan of the myself in a conundrum NFL, I sometimes stay up when I’m travelling back up all night watching televised to the constituency late on games from the States – to a Thursday night: should which a kebab is the perfect I cook, or shall I grab a accompaniment. And Roger Mullin MP delicious kebab from my everyone knows that a kebab local? I don’t have to tell is the perfect way to round off you…the kebab wins this a great night out. No matter contest more often than not. the occasion, you can always But that’s one of the reasons find a good reason to have a “The British Kebab Awards within the industry. I wish why I love the humble British kebab.” are a wonderful and everyone attending the awards inspiring way of recognising ceremony a very enjoyable outstanding contributions evening.”

Virendra Sharma MP Andrew Stephenson Alan Brown MP MP “I think it a great idea to “The quality of British cuisine constituency but the entire “Kebabs have become as celebrate the quality and has an unfair reputation for country. From small family much a part of the UK’s choice of kebab and grilled being boring and tasteless. run restaurants to large food tradition as the Sunday meats in the UK. We know The restaurants and producers national companies the roast and it is great that there that kebabs are much more we see recognised today are kebab industry is a driver of are well-respected, firmly than a takeaway after a proof that British food and our economy and employs established annual awards for few drinks so the industry Britain has only benefitted thousands up and down the best in the business. highlighting quality and from migration. The quality the country. I can think of The kebab industry makes successful businesses helps before us is staggering, and no better way to honour a vital contributing to our combat such thoughts. the contribution made to their contribution than the national economy and brings Congratulations to those who the economy by the kebab fantastic National Kebab communities together locally. have made the shortlist and I industry is incredibly Awards organised by the I am pleased to support the look forward to trying some important not just to my irrepressible Ibrahim Dogus.” British Kebab Awards.” of the establishments.” 13 British Kebab Awards

Baroness Jenny Iain McNicol Jones AM General Secretary of Labour Party

“I wish you a very successful Congratulations to the to recognise the suppliers, award ceremony. Remember founders, CEFTUS, and restaurants and culinary to support your local growers nominees at the British wizards that put it on my and British farmers, source as Kebab Awards 2016. On plate. Good luck to everyone much of your meat from free behalf of the Labour Party and have a wonderful range and high animal welfare I am delighted to be part of celebration. suppliers and reduce meat this event to acknowledge portions to help protect our the cultural and economic environment.” contribution that everyone involved in this industry makes to our country.

I am a particular fan of this delicious food and it is a wonderful opportunity Michael Dugher MP Member of Parliament for Barnsley East

Mike Theodorou “The British Kebab Awards and reflects the multicultural are an excellent way to diversity within our local Big K recognise good practice communities.” and quality within the UK kebab industry, not only by celebrating excellence but also by raising standards. They “It is fantastic to see the wish you all a successful and also allow us to celebrate British Kebab Awards as well enjoyable evening.” the contribution that kebab as the kebab industry going shops make to our economy from strength to strength. We

“I am delighted to offer a run the kebab restaurants and message of support for the takeaways on high streets up 3rd British Kebab Awards and down the country. So it Rt Hon Sir Eric ceremony. The British is right that we recognise and kebab industry makes an celebrate the achievements Pickles MP important contribution to of all parts of the industry Brentwood and Ongar this country, both economy, and those who work in it. and is going from strength. It therefore gives me great More importantly, the social pleasure to wish you every and cultural fabric of our success for your event and for communities wouldn’t be the the future of the industry.” same without the people who 14 British Kebab Awards 1st British Kebab Awards Winners

The Best Turkish Kebab, 125 Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 8BT The Alternative Takeaway, 35 High Street, Wigton, Cumbria CA7 9NJ Best Kebab, 73-75 Town Centre, Middle Street, Consett County Durham DH8 5QG The Family Kebab House,1 Kingsway House, Smithfield Street, Salisbury Wiltshire SP4 7AL Turkish Delight, 573 Barlow Moor Road, Chorlton-cum-Hardy, Manchester M21 8AE Archway Kebab, 26 Junction Road, Upper Holloway London N19 5RE Lahore Kebab House, 2-10 Umberston Street London, Greater London E1 1PY Antepliler Restaurant, 139 Upper Street, London N1 1QP Marmaris Restaurant, 4-5 Newmarket Row Bath BA2 4AN Istanbul Kebab House, 19 Upper Tooting Road SW17 7TS Veli’s Doner Kebab Manufacturer (Wholesale) Ltd, Anderstaff Ind Est/Hawkins La, Burton-on-Trent DE14 1QH Kismet Kebabs Ltd, Kismet Kebabs Milton House, Maldon Road, Latchingdon, Essex CM3 6LF Star Catering Supplies Ltd, Unit 6-8 Forest Trading Estate, Priestly Way, Walthamstow London E17 6AL Efes 2 Restaurant, 175-177 Great Portland Street, London W1W 5PJ Vadi Restaurant 430-434 Green Lanes, Palmers Green, London N13 5XG Best Kebab, 178 Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth BH8 8AS Istanbul Kebab House Tooting, 19 Upper Tooting Rd, London SW17 7TS Capital Restaurant, 271 Fore Street, London N9 0PD Town Kebab House, 496 Doncaster Road, Barnsley, South Yorkshire S70 3PH Ali Baba, 61 London Rd, Southend-on-Sea SS1 1PF

15 British Kebab Awards

16 British Kebab Awards 2nd British Kebab Awards Winners

Mozz Restaurant, 887 Green Lanes, London N21 2QS Kervan Gokyuzu, 183 High Road, Wood Green, London N22 6BA Efes Restaurant, 230 Commercial road, London E1 2NB Mazlum & Serdar Demir Brothers of Skewd Kitchen, 12 Cockfosters Parade, London EN4 0BX Ali Dirik of Mangal 2, 4 Stoke Newington Road, London N16 8BH Haydar Polat of Troia, 3F Belvedere Rd, London SE1 7GQ Quik Cut, 73 Thurlstone Road, Penistone, Sheffield, S36 9EF Vatan Catering, Mill Mead Road Unit 37-43 Mill Mead Industrial Centre N17 9QU Tees Ltd, Efes House, Unit 65, Cromwell Industrial Estate, Staffa Road E10 7QZ Efes Navstar Ltd, 76 Kilbirnie Street, Glasgow G5 8JD Likya Ocakbasi Restaurant, 68-70 Golders Green Rd, London NW11 8LN Bull Ring Chippy, 4 St Johns, Worcester WR2 5AH Best Kebab, 5 West St, Southend on Sea, Essex SS2 6HH The Best Turkish Kebab,125 Stoke Newington Road N16 8BT The Charcoal Grill,12 Chase Side, Southgate, London N14 5PA Capital Restaurant,271 Fore St, London N9 0PD Kazan Restaurant, 93-94 Wilton Rd, London SW1V 1DW Sheesh Restaurant, Ye Olde Kings Head, High Rd, Chigwell, Essex IG7 6QA Hazev Restaurant, Discovery Dock West, 2 S Quay Square, Greater London E14 9RT

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18 British Kebab Awards 3rd British Kebab Awards Winners

Kebabalicious, 195 Hollyhedge Road, Wythenshawe Manchester M22 8UE Super Kebab Ocakbasi, 107 Stoke Newington Road, Stoke Newington, London N16 8BX Archway Kebab House, 26A Junction Rd, London N19 5RE Botan Kebab House, 24 Berry St. Liverpool, Merseyside L1 4JF The Kebab Shop,159 Dudley Road. Birmingham B18 7QY Selale Restaurant, Salisbury Promenade, Green Lanes, Haringey N8 0RX Stone Cave, 111 Kingsland High Street, Dalston, London E8 2PB Wood Oven Potters Bar, 27-29 High St. Potters Bar, Hertfordshire EN6 5AJ Sheesh, Ye Olde Kings Head High Road Chigwell, Essex IG7 6QA Sarastro, 126 Dury Ln, TheatreLand, London WC2B 5SU Durum Ocakbasi, 38 North end road, Golders Green NW11 7PT Mezze Ocakbasi, 2 Johnstone Road, Woodford Green, Essex IG8 0XA Baran Meat, 12 Chase Side, London N14 5PA Veli’s Doner Kebab Manufacturers, Anderstaff Ind Est/Hawkins La, Burton-on-Trent DE14 1QH Edmonton Meat, 7 Stacey Avenue, London, N18 3PP Pivaz, 34 Chatsworth Rd. Hackney, London E5 0LP Diyarbakir Kitchen, 52-53 Grand Parade, London N4 1AG Hill Bistro, 6 Market Hill, Huntingdon, Cambridgeshire PE29 3NR The Sphinx, 74 Stranmillis Rd, Belfast BT9 5AD Pizza Choice, 22 Countiesburry Avenue Cardiff CF3 5SJ Javit’s, 39 Drum Street Edinburgh, EH17 8RQ Haz Restaurant, 9 Cutler Street, London E1 7DJ

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20 British Kebab Awards Interviews from the 3rd British Kebab Awards in 2015

Sharon Hodgson Steve Reed Labour MP for Labour MP for Croydon Washington and North Sunderland West

This is the third year of the their awards. Makes you I think it’s incredibly and business in this country. British Kebab Awards and realise how much this means important to get an industry The first thing that struck me it is now huge, catching up to them and it’s really great to together like this to celebrate was the size of it, I walked with the British Curry Awards see, it really is. excellence and to reward the in and didn’t expect it to be very quickly. There are twelve people that have achieved anything like this big. There hundred people here this special things in the sector. are a lot of people who work year and last year it was five This is a multi-billion pound in the sector, there are those hundred. It is just going from industry, a very important who support the sector and strength to strength and I’m contributor to the economy. industry. There’s a real buzz thrilled to be a part of it. The We have all eaten this kind of in here and people meeting atmosphere was outstanding. food and we all know a good people they have not met It was really, really good to kebab from a bad one and before. We are looking see the winners and the joy it’s a great way to drive up forward to seeing what’s going on their face as they collected standards in the sector. Also to happen later on. to celebrate the contribution these people make to the law

Stephen Kinnock Labour MP for Aberavon Wayne David Labour MP for Caerphilly

It’s fantastic to be here, to all the hard working people it’s a great atmosphere. in those restaurants getting Twelve hundred people. It great food to our tables. I’m Absolutely fantastic, I’ve great support from other is amazing what’s been built really enjoying the awards been really bald over to communities as well. For up over three years. I have ceremony, it’s been a great see so many people here, example, I am sitting on a been really fascinated to evening. so much enthusiasm and table with Bangladeshis and hear what contribution the basically people celebrating they are celebrating curry but kebab business makes to the the best of british kebabs. The are also recognising the kebab. British economy and how atmosphere is tremendous. many people the industry Kebabs are part of the employs. I think it’s a tribute British cuisine and there’s 21 British Kebab Awards

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Michelle Gildernew Lord Ahmad former MP for Fermanagh Baron of Wimbledon and South Tyrone

I am delighted to be here and Ireland. I’m delighted to The awards are a testament you will always be greeted by the invitation of Ibrahim see how many people there to the industry and how by old friends, familiar faces, Dogus, Centre for Turkey are here and the fantastic phenomenally it has grown in new faces and people from Studies and the British Kebab atmosphere. I’m looking Britain. The history of kebabs across the political divide. Awards. It’s great to see the forward to seeing who’s going go back a long time and celebration of diversity and to be winning the awards. people are always competing the cultural mixes in Britain as to where it all started. I think the incredible thing is, it’s very much part of what constitutes Britain today, who we are, what we are and what we eat. The say saying is that food bring people together and I believe this industry Lord Roy Kennedy fundamentally shows this. Going into a kebab restaurant of Southwark

I think the ceremony is electric tonight. There’s all fantastic. It’s my first time people here to see if they won here and there are fifteen the awards and there’s people hundred people in there. It’s for the community here too. Matt Simpkin absolutely wonderful and all It’s absolutely wonderful. credit to the organisers. It’s Just Eat Director

Great thing for JUST EAT people with real energy. Great to be lead sponsor. We’ve got venue and great atmosphere two thousand six hundred and some Kebab Shop owners The Lord Rogan restaurant owners on our site. winning great prizes. I think the stat was six million (Dennis Robert David kebabs last year, that’s grown Rogan) to six million within fives year. It is growing massively as a cuisine type. We are really proud to be associated with I think the British Kebab after year. I’m looking forward British Kebabs Awards and I Awards are especially to next year. The ambiance is hope it continues for many wonderful and I’m really wonderful, we’re all enjoying years. There’s been a massive enjoying tonight. This is the ourselves. The food is good, change from last year, so third occasion I’ve been here the wine is terrific and the there’s double the number and it’s getting better year company is fantastic. people, over one thousand 23 British Kebab Awards

24 British Kebab Awards Interviews with the Winners of the 3rd British Kebab Awards (2015)

Irfan Khalil Hakan Topkaya Bakir Bagmaci Kebabalicious Archway Kebab Botan Kebab House “Thank you to everyone that voted for us. We are “I would like to thank the British Kebab Awards “The organisation was really successful and attractive. really happy to have won an award this year. We had team for the great event. I would also like to thank I was very happy when my kebab restaurant was a very nice night and we would like to thank the my customers who voted for us. I have been working announced as the Best Kebab Restaurant Outside of British Kebab Awards team for making this possible.” in this industry for 30 years and I’m very proud of London. Thank you to British Kebab Awards team my company for having won ‘Best Take Away Kebab and sponsors for this great night.” in London.”

Halil Ahmet Nihat Aricioglu Ergun Binbay Veli’s Doner Kebab Manufacturers Mezze Ocakbasi Edmonton Meat Best related business in the kebab sector as a Last year, I attended this event as my friends The 4th British Kebab Awards was wonderful. producer. In a such that minimum 2500 portions guest and I really enjoyed it. This year our The venue and the food and drinks were organised of kebab are sold of our products a week. Absolutely customers nominated our restaurants in the highly perfectly. My team and I have worked very hard to tremendous from the beginning. From the concept recommended category and we won the award. We make our company the best, so I think we deserved (of having British Kebab Awards) to where we are are very happy to learn that our customers are very the award for ‘Best Contributor’. I would like to say now. It’s phenomenal. I’m really pleased to be part satisfied with our service. The event was very well thank you to the team and to everyone who voted for of it and pleased for the kebab industry. We need to organised, which clearly shows the great effort put in us. We hope to continue to do our best for the future thank you for the British Kebab Awards team to help with great potential for a bigger event in the coming in order to continue to satisfy our customers. the Kebab industry became very popular in England. year.

Abdullah Sahiner Super Kebab Ocakbasi

We are a family run business. I would like to thank publicity as well as new customers who stated that it our customers for voting for us as best takeaway. I was important for that our restaurant won an award would also like to thank the British Kebab Awards as they are now assured they made the right choice team as they organized such a wonderful night for in dining with us. I believe we provide quality and the kebab industry. In general, this event provided customer satisfaction and we have proved this by our business with increased sales and attracted winning this award. 25 British Kebab Awards

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Savas Hurman Murat Magden Fethi Nam Stone Cave Sarastro Wood Oven Potters This is my first time winning this award. I am very I was not expecting to win an award but am very We were honoured to achieved an award from proud of my restaurant and my staff for winning an happy to have won. We would like to thank the the British Kebab Awards, which has definitely award in the category of ‘The Best Value in General’. British Kebab Awards for this fantastic event. had a positive impact on our business in general. I The event was very productive and provided our I do believe the event provided us with a great also want to congratulate all the other nominated business with great positive feedback from customers opportunity, coupled with inspirational talks and I restaurants as well as the team for being sponsored by and the general public. need to thank all our customers who voted for us. a very well known company, Just Eat which added an extra spark and meaning to the event.

Bektas Kurt Mustafa Topalca Sabri Barackilic Durum Ocakbasi Hill Bistro Selale Restaurant In general, the event was very productive, providing It was a great evening, well organised and had a Achieving an award from this event has proved our our business with great feedback from our customers very good atmosphere. We would like to thank the success and displayed our reputation once again. The and the general public. My team and I would like to British Kebab Awards for giving us the opportunity night offered us a fantastic opportunity to meet other thank Mr Dogus and the British Kebab Awards team to network and make connections with people in tradesmen in the industry who have similar interests. for the fantastic evening. We are all very proud of the trade. I would also like to thank our customers It has enabled us to make valuable connections with our restaurant and our staff and would like to give a for voting for us as with their support we won ‘Best them and I would like to thank the team organising huge thank you to our customers without whom this Newcomer outside London’. this event as everything was very well presented and would not have been possible. organised.

Dylan Hunt Erkan Aksu Garip Demirci Sheesh Diyarbakir Kitchen Pizza Choice I would like to thank everyone who voted for us. I It was a fantastic evening with a great aura which I would first like to thank the team behind the am very privileged to have won the award for best generated great deals for us as a company. We are British Kebab Awards and it’s director Mr Ibrahim fine dining. I keep my standards high and hopefully very happy to have won the ‘Best newcomer’ award Dogus. It’s a great event and fantastic opportunity for this will be reflected in the next awards. I am pleased this year and we hope our customers will nominate individuals in the kebab industry to come together in the wider community has taken an interest and I am our restaurant next year too. Thank you to everybody the same environment and celebrate our industry. immensely proud of my restaurant and staff. for their votes. 27 British Kebab Awards

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3rd British Kebab Awards (2015) The 3rd British Awards held in January 2014 was a great success with distinguished guests. Over 100 cross party MPs and Peers including Nadhim Zawahi MP, Keith Vaz MP, Baroness Benjamin, Lord Paul, John Reynolds MP, Sharon Hodgson MP, Ben Gummer MP, Toby Perkinson MP and Robert Halfon MP attended the event. Business people and representatives of the community and kebab enthusiasts were there to celebrate the success of the kebab industry.

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32 British Kebab Awards British Kebab Awards in the Media wine consultant Zeren Wilson says: “The kebab scene has been ripe for a reassessment in the UK for some time now. There has always been big love for Is this the best kebab shop Turkish food among restaurant lovers, Super Kebab in Stoke in Britain? and meat grilled over charcoal will never Newington wins best go out of fashion, yet this is a cuisine that takeaway in London Super Kebab in Stoke Newington won has remained untouched by trends-until a coveted award for best takeaway this now. Hackney performs well at annual British week at the British Kebab Awards. Sophie Kebab Awards as Pivaz in Chatsworth Road Dening stops by for a late-night meal “I think we will begin to see more styled wins Best Newcomer gong. Turkish concepts, and more attention to By Sophie Dening styling and branding. The proliferation A local kebab house has won the coveted prize of casual dining restaurants and street of ‘London’s Best Takeaway’ at the annual There so much more to the kebab than food has probably helped Turkish food British Kebab Awards. its popular incarnation as a late-night manoeuvre itself into a position where it Super Kebab on Stoke Newington Road and can make some more noise.” booze sponge. its sister restaurant Super Ocakbasi scooped the award whilst Pivaz on Chatsworth Road For years, I’ve remained faithful to Omar On the way home, my black cab driver was also recognised with a ‘Best Newcomer’ and the boys at Kuzu Sis on Well Street agrees that, on the whole, kebabs are far gong. in Hackney. But the clamour of the nicer than they used to be. But he still third British Kebab Awards, which took says: “I’d never have let you get in my cab Kebab restaurants and suppliers from across place in London on Wednesday night, with a doner.” the UK attended the ceremony in central has turned my head, and here I am on London last week, which celebrated their contribution to the industry. Stoke Newington High Street, intrigued, hungry, and offering congratulations to THE AWARDS IN FULL Owner of Super Kebab, Abdullah Sahiner, the happy winners. Best takeaway in London: whose favourite kebab dish was a lamb doner, said: “We are trying to change the way people Super Kebab Ocakbasi, Super Kebab, a family-owned business see kebab shops, as for a long time kebabs established eight years ago, took the Stoke Newington were considered a meal for drunks. coveted national award for best takeaway Best takeaway outside of London: on Wednesday, sharing it with sibling site Botan Kebab, Burger and We are trying our best to serve quality and Super Ocakbasi, a five-minute walk away. Pizza House, Liverpool healthy food and to change people’s view of kebabs.” At DOM’s Place in Clapton, a traditional Best fine dining: Turkish grill, or mangal, has been Sheesh restaurant, Chigwell, Essex Mr Abdullah said the key to the perfect kebab revamped by younger members of the Best value: was in the “magic hands” of his chefs. family, who are wise details such as Selale Restaurant, Harringay, London quality coffee, craft beer and branding. Zerdu Kara, owner of Pivaz which The late-night kebab culture represents Just Eat best delivery restaurant: only opened six months ago and serves only a fraction of what the industry, Kebabalicious, Manchester Mediterranean and Turkish dishes said he was “very happy and very proud” to win the ‘Best which employs 200,000 people in the Best newcomer kebab restaurant: Newcomer’ prize. UK, brings to our culture and our Pivaz Restaurant, Hackney economy, points out Ibrahim Dogus, Best in Northern Ireland: Ibrahim Dogus, Director Founder of the man (and kebab-shop entrepreneur) The Sphinx, Belfast the British Kebab Awards, said: “Many behind the British Kebab Awards. “What congratulations to all the winners and is great is that, with new businesses Best in Wales: nominees. These awards are a true celebration opening all the time, we are now seeing Pizza Choice, Cardiff of kebabs as a Great British institution, and some fine-dining takes on kebab cuisine, Best in Scotland: recognise the contribution of the industry as well as everyday takeaways and family Javits, Edinburgh throughout the country. restaurants.” Best young chef: “There was a very high standard of nominees for every category, and I am delighted that we The awards are getting bigger every Murat Poyraz and Mazlum Demi have been able to honour some of the leaders Best chef award of the year: year, and the outlook is looking healthy in the industry for the third year running.” for the humble kebab. Food writer and Haci Akdogan 33 British Kebab Awards

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Restaurants triumph in the awards, said: “Many congratulations Golders Green and Finchley to Selale Restaurant, Best Catering and British Kebab Awards Diyarkabir Kitchen. restaurants win prize at British Kebab Awards Three restaurants have triumphed in the “These awards are a true celebration of British Kebab Awards. kebabs as a Great British institution, Keeping its customers satisfied has and recognise the contribution of the landed a kebab shop an award. Selale Restaurant in Green Lanes won industry throughout the country. the best value category, Best Catering on Garman Road won an award for an “There was a very high standard of Durum Ocakbasi, which has two outstanding contribution to the kebab nominees for every category, and I restaurants - in North End Road, industry, and Diyarbakir Kitchen in am delighted that we have been able Golders Green, and Ballards Grand Parade was highly recommended to honour some of the leaders in the Lane, Finchley-was announced in the best newcomer category. industry for the third year running.” the winner of the best customer satisfaction award at the British A panel of judges including MPs Nadhim The British kebab industry contributes Zahawi, Jonathan Reynolds, Andy over £2.2 billion annually to the British Kebab Awards in London last Love and Keith Vaz, as well as Baroness economy, supporting around 200,000 night. Hussein-Ece, helped decide the winners jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the of each category-although anyone could food industry in the UK Prizes were presented for a total of vote for their favourite kebab outlet from 14 categories at the third annual a shortlist. There are also around 200 doner kebab awards, which were attended by manufacturers in the UK, with a Tottenham MP David Lammy turnover in excess of £750m. more than 1,200 people. congratulated the winners, and said he was “delighted” to see the restaurants The first kebab shop opened in North A panel of judges, which included winning awards. London in 1966 and there are now over MPs Nadhim Zahawi, Jonathan 20,000 kebab outlets in the UK selling Reynolds, Andy Love and Keith Ibrahim Dogus, director and founder of an estimated 1.3m kebabs every day. Vaz, as well as Baroness Hussein- Ece, helped decide the winners. EDINBURGH is set to dominate the Scottish Ibrahim Dogus, founder of the category of the British Kebab Awards after British Kebab Awards, said: “Many congratulations to Durum bagging nearly every spot on the shortlist. Ocakbasi for winning best customer satisfaction. These awards A total of eight restaurants across the Hanover St. Only two Glasgow-based city netted a place in the final ten vying restaurants made the shortlist. are a true celebration of kebabs to win one of the industry’s top gongs- as a Great British institution, and Best Scottish Kebab Restaurant. Kebab houses around the country are recognise the contribution of the vying for the industry’s top culinary industry throughout the country. They are last year’s winner Javit’s accolades as hordes of kebab cravers vote Takeaway in Granton Rd, Samsun’s for the most delectable doners. Voting “There was a very high standard of Speciality Kebab and Pizza House closes on March 10 and votes can be cast in Ferry Rd, Hanam’s Restaurant in on the British Kebab Awards website at nominees for every category, and Johnston Terrace, Nawroz Restaurant in www.britishkebabawards.co.uk. I am delighted that we have been Potterrow, Pera Turkish Restaurant in able to honour some of the leaders Elm Row, Hanedan Turkish Restaurant Kebabs are now a British institution with in the industry for the third year in Preston St, Verdo Turkish BBQ in an estimated 1.3m sold every day. running.” Newington Rd and Yeni Restaurant in 35 British Kebab Awards

36 British Kebab Awards Keith Vaz Mp Website Member of Parliament for Leicester East West London Restaurants Keith attended the 3rd British Kebab Keith presented the Outstanding vying for glory in British Awards on Wednesday 7th January. It Contribution to the Kebab Industry was a major event that brought together a Award. Kebab Awards thousand people.

TChnarok, in Hounslow, which has the seal of approval from Ruth Cadbury MP, And here’s the results-for all you crazy is among those competing for your votes rotisserie junkies out there. A restaurant in Hounslow has been shortlisted for the British Kebab Awards. Best newcomer: Pivaz restaurant, Hackney Kebabs aren’t just for 3am on a Saturday Chnarok, in Hanworth Road, Hounslow, Best takeaway in London: made the cut in the best customer as you wind your way home from The Super Ocakbasi, Stoke Newington satisfaction category of the annual Red Lion. competition. Best takeaway outside London: Now worth an annual £2.2 billion to the Botan Kebab House, Liverpool The Iraqi and Kurdish restaurant is up British economy, kebabs are no longer just a drunken late night snack. They Best delivery: against nine other restaurants in the Kebabalicious, Manchester category vying for your vote online, want to be taken seriously. including the following west London Best value: diners: Last night’s British Kebab Awards Selale Restaurant, London were the third of their kind. They were Best fine dining: established in 2013, in a bid to ‘highlight • Marmara Restaurant, Earls Court Sheesh, Chigwell, Essex Road, Earls Court and acknowledge the best of the kebab industry from all over Britain.’ Best in Northern Ireland: • Maroush, Edgware Rd, Paddington The Sphinx, Belfast A panel of 19, including Labour MP Best in Wales: Keith Vaz, the Tories’ Nadhim Zahawi • Best Mangal, North End Rd, Pizza Choice, Cardiff Kensington and restaurateur James Breslaw, reviewed more than 2000 nominees across 14 Best in Scotland: Chnarok, situated just off Hounslow categories. Javits, Edinburgh High Street, has been given the seal of approval by Brentford & Isleworth MP Ruth Cadbury. David Amess MP Website Southend Kebab and Pizza House “I can certainly see why they have been nominated. The Kofta kebab shortlisted for the British Kebab Awards 2015 was melt-in-the-mouth delicious, the accompanying salad was fresh and the David Amess MP was delighted to hear Nominations were sought across a bread straight from the oven,” she said. the news that Southend Kebab and Pizza variety of categories including best “The smells and taste took me straight to in Leigh-on-Sea has been shortlisted value restaurant, best takeaway, best the shores of the Mediterranean. It is well for the 3rd British Kebab Awards. new restaurant and chef of the year. worth a visit!” Nominations have now been closed and The awards honour the classic takeaway shortlisted kebab businesses are on www. through to the growing number of family There are 16 categories this year in the britishkebabawards.co.uk for the final restaurants serving kebab style food. contest, which was founded by the vote until Sunday, 4 January 2015. The Centre for Turkey Studies, and members Panel of Judges will subsequently make The British kebab industry contributes of the public can vote for their favourite the final decision and winners will be over £2.2 billion annually to the British contenders here. announced at the awards ceremony on economy, supporting around 200,000 Wednesday, 7 January. jobs across restaurants, suppliers and the The winners are due to be announced food industry in the UK. There are also on March 23 in a ceremony at the Park The British Kebab Awards, now in around 200 doner kebab manufacturers Plaza Westminster Bridge Hotel. their third year, have become a fixture in the UK, with a turnover in excess of in the annual food awards calendar. £750m. 37 British Kebab Awards

to offer a gesture of fond respect,” says Yau of the new venture. “I have eaten my share of kebabs – the good, the bad and the potentially lethal. The perfect one, lovingly made with the finest fresh ingredients, is a timeless, irresistible culinary prize.”

A grey lunchtime in Stoke Newington, to 1,990 calories, 70g of fat and 16.5g of With food this good, there is no shortage north-east London, and I’m standing in the salt, as well as lamb kebabs testing positive of high-profile fans. As well as Yau entrance to Super Kebab, an unexceptional- for beef). and Ghayour, Heston Blumenthal and looking takeaway. For all of January’s belt- Ottolenghi have spoken of their fondness tightening, there is a queue. I wait for four For restaurateurs, this stereotype is for the kebab. The artists Gilbert & George others to order before opting for a lamb frustrating. “The association doesn’t do famously eat nightly at Mangal 2. Vaz says doner and tucking in. It delivers: freshly justice to the quality and range of food that he has been a devotee all his life: “I think minced, juicy lamb shoulder seasoned we have,” says Ali Dirik, 52, of Mangal 2 in we should honour the kebab for being an to perfection, offset by crisp salad, all Dalston, east London, who picked up chef extremely simple food that’s very tasty and comfortingly swaddled in pitta. of the year at the 2014 awards. “Our cuisine perfectly shaped to go straight into your isn’t just doner kebabs; we sell hundreds mouth.” He has one a fortnight, a lamb It is no surprise that on Wednesday, Super of dishes that have been developed by doner with salad, tomatoes and hummus, Kebab (and its sister restaurant Super professionals over decades.” from Kebabish in his Leicester East Ocakbasi, a few minutes down the road) constituency. was named best takeaway in London at the But still. A great kebab is a wonderful British Kebab awards. Competition was stiff thing – a perfect marriage of succulent, Those behind the awards hope that they will – there were more than 500 nominations subtly spiced meat, pillowy bread and fresh, further raise the kebab’s profile. Mustafa for the top London slot, and more than crunchy salad. “You don’t need anything Demir, manager of The Best Turkish 2,000 businesses around the country were else – it’s the complete meal in a handful,” Kebab, another Stoke Newington joint, says nominated across 14 categories. As well says Sabrina Ghayour, author of Persiana business increased 10% after they picked up as Super Kebab, the winners – judged by (recently named best new cookbook at the last year’s best takeaway in London gong. a panel of 19, Labour MP Keith Vaz, the Observer Food Monthly awards). They are For kebab lovers everywhere, that can only Tories’ Nadhim Zahawi and restaurateur centuries old: in medieval Persia, soldiers be a good thing. James Breslaw among them – included are said to have used their swords to cook Kebabalicious in Manchester (best delivery), meat over open fires. Ottoman travel books Sheesh in Chigwell, Essex (best fine dining) from the 18th century talk of layered meat THE WINNERS and Haci Akdogan of Haz, London (best being cooked vertically on a stick – an early Best takeaway chef). incarnation of the doner. Super Kebab/Super Ocakbasi, Stoke Newington, London The awards were established in 2013 Much of their enduring appeal lies in their Botan Kebab House, Liverpool and, says their founder, 34-year-old simplicity. As the Observer’s Jay Rayner Runner-up: Archway Kebab House, Ibrahim Dogus of the Centre for Turkey puts it: “It’s a piece of meat on a stick – London Studies, aim “to help the industry and the there’s very little space to hide. So if you do Runner-up: The Kebab Shop, Birmingham community to realise its potential”. But them badly it immediately becomes very, Best delivery they hint at something else: a growing very obvious.” There are myriad regional Kebabalicious, Manchester appreciation of the kebab as more than a incarnations, from the Pakistani seekh Runner-up: Istanblue, Rochdale late-night, drunken snack. “Our customers kebab (minced meat, skewered and cooked Fine dining pass 100 kebab shops and come to us,” says in a tandoor) to the Persian kabab barg (flat, Sheesh, Chigwell, Essex Abdullah Sahiner, Super Kebab’s 40-year- pounded, marinated lamb fillet). Runner-up: Sarastro, Covent Garden, old manager, who opened the takeaway London 10 years ago with four partners. “Why? Yet they work across the spectrum, from Best value Because they know our food is homemade, down-and-dirty (for all the shame that Selale Restaurant, Harringay, London and they know the quality.” accompanies the late-night takeaway, there’s Wood Oven BBQ, Potters Bar, no denying its potency) to, increasingly, Hertfordshire According to the award organisers, kebab high(ish)-end. This year, Yotam Ottolenghi’s Runner-up: Stone Cave, Dalston businesses contribute more than £2.2bn business partner, Noam Bar, will launch a Best newcomer to the British economy each year. The fast-food business with kebabs at the centre. Pivaz, Hackney, London first is said to have opened here, in Stoke Alan Yau, the legendary restaurateur behind Hill Café and Bistro, Huntingdon, Newington, in 1966. It’s not clear how and the Wagamama chain and Hakkasan in Cambridgeshire when kebabs became the late-night reveller’s London, has just opened Babaji Pide, also Runner-up: Diyarbakir Kitchen, Harringay snack of choice but, somewhere along the in London, which sells beef and lamb kofta Best in Northern Ireland, Wales, Scotland line, they did – accompanied by horror kebabs cooked over charcoal alongside the The Sphinx, Belfast stories (a 2009 study by food standards Turkish-style pizzas it is named after. “My Pizza Choice, Cardiff officers found some kebabs containing up wife is from Istanbul, so I felt compelled Javits, Edinburgh 38 British Kebab Awards

to all the hard work that the team has a great service. No doubt they will put in.” go from strength to strength in the months and years to come. The awards As the UK’s main showcase for the are about applauding the contribution Kebabalicious wins JUST EAT £2.2bn a year industry, the British made to Britain by the kebab industry, Kebab Awards recognise the best and continuing to raise standards. With Best Delivery Restaurant at the in the business. They celebrate the partners such as JUST EAT, this should British Kebab Awards 2015 stories behind the nation’s favorite not be too difficult.” kebab houses, from the important Takeaway restaurant, Kebabalicious, contribution that restaurants, suppliers Corfield continues: “It’s important to based in Wythenshawe, Manchester, and workers make to the UK economy, remember that takeaway restaurants are has won the JUST EAT Best Delivery to the cultural significance of the kebab a crucial part of our local economies. Restaurant at this year’s British Kebab as one of Britain’s best-loved foods. At JUST EAT we want to champion Awards. The locally run restaurant these thriving small businesses. scooped the award for its consistent Since JUST EAT first launched in Our focus is helping our restaurant food quality and renowned service the UK in 2006, 13 million kebabs partners be as successful as possible, by throughout Manchester, The restaurant have been ordered online from the providing them with more customers has been part of the JUST EAT company’s Turkish and Kurdish and orders, helping the local high-street network for three years. restaurant partners -placed end-to- thrive and encouraging and rewarding end, which stretches from London to local commerce across the UK.” The British Kebab Awards, now in their Turkey! In 2014 alone, nearly six and a third year, are the work of the Centre half million were ordered online, 70% JUST EAT, the world’s leading online for Turkey Studies. The ceremony, more than 2013. takeaway delivery service, are official which took place on Wednesday sponsors of the British Kebab Awards, 7th January at the Westminster Park The award was presented to for the second year running. Plaza Park Plaza Westminster Bridge Kebabalicious by Graham Corfield (@ Hotel, London, was attended by over corfers), UK Managing Director of Kebabalicious can be found at 195 a thousand guests, including over JUST EAT, who comments: “I am Hollyhedge Road, Wythenshawe M22 200 MPs and Peers such as Lord Neil delighted that takeaway restaurants 8UE. Kinnock, Nadhim Zahawi MP, Keith such as Kebabalicious are being Vaz MP, Lord Ahmed of Wimbledon, recognised for their excellence. The The other nominations for the award Jonathan Reynolds and Andy Love. kebab is a main staple in the British were: takeaway industry, and these awards • Station Kebab (3 Queens Parade, Kebabalicious will receive £1,500 of showcase the important economic and Bounds Green, London, N11 JUST EAT customer vouchers, to give cultural contribution made by Turkish 2DN) away as they see fit to further drive restaurants and food to this country. • Cypriana Greek Restaurant (20 orders. As the UKs leading online takeaway Lark Lane, Liverpool, L17 8US) ordering service, we are honored to • Curipza (Millers Three, Southmill Restaurant owner Irfan Khalil celebrate this success.” Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 comments on the award: “We are 3DH) hugely proud to have been awarded Ibrahim Dogus, Director of the • Star Kebab (169 Homerton High this prestigious prize. We have worked Centre for Turkey Studies, said: Street London, E9 6BB) very hard to deliver the best kebabs “Congratulations must go to • Istanblue (37 Milkstone Road, consistently and this award is testament Kebabalicious for providing such Rochdale, OL11 1EB)

Mayor of Redbridge Blog, British Kebab Awards

The Mayoress and I attended the 3rd many people including several Mayors from I am pleased to say that Nick Arcioglu Annual British Kebab Awards Ceremony at other London Boroughs. During the dinner owner of Mezze Ocakbasi of Woodford the Westminster Park Plaza Hotel. the Award Ceremony commenced with Green won the Highly Recommended various categories with several nominations Award for Best Customer Satisfaction. On arrival we were greeted by the Director for each category. Over 1,000 people attended this function. of the British Kebab Awards. There were 39 British Kebab Awards

Right now, the awards are more than a Best Kebab House in Northern Ireland little London-centric, but it is still early • The Sphinx, Belfast days, and hopefully more businesses from Best Kebab House in Wales further afield will be up for nomination • Pizza Choice, Cardiff as the competition develops in the future. Best Kebab House in Scotland Winners of 2015 British Kebab • Javit’s, Edinburgh Awards announced The winners are as follows. Best Delivery Where’s your favourite kebab shop? Best kebab shops and restaurants lauded • Winner: Kebabalicious, Manchester Personally, the best kebabs I have ever at third edition of annual awards. • Highly Recommended: Istanblue, had were from a takeaway in central Rochdale Exeter called Raj India. When I lived Kebabs are often associated with late- Best Takeaway in London in the city, the shop was open until the night snacking, particularly after a few • Winner: Super Kebab/Ocakbasi, early hours of the morning, and I found drinks. But there’s more to them than Stoke Newington, London that after a long shift, there was no better their existence as a post-pub treat, and • Highly Recommended: Archway comfort food than juicy kebab meat the British Kebab Awards want to make Kebab House, Archway, London smothered in garlic yoghurt sauce, a sting sure everyone knows that by honouring Best Takeaway Outside London of extra hot chilli and crispy lettuce, all the top kebab houses across the land. • Winner: Botan Kebab House, wrapped up in soft pitta bread. Liverpool The winners • Highly Recommended: The Kebab The thought of the first bite of tender The inclusion of a ‘Fine Dining’ category Shop, Birmingham meat and creamy sauce that a top kebab among the awards is telling in terms of Best Value offers is making me crave one as I write the competition’s aims of improving the • Winner: Selale Restaurant, this. public image of the kebab industry. That Harringay, London image has previously been damaged by • Winner (outside London): Wood But what do you think of takeaway accusations of misleading practices, with Oven, Potters Bar, Hertfordshire kebabs? Comfort food or to be avoided? shops selling ‘lamb’ kebabs which are • Highly Recommended: Stone Cave, Do you have a favourite shop? Let us actually mixed cuts to save money. Dalston, London know your thoughts in the Comments Fine Dining below. But the awards, which are only in their • Winner: Sheesh, Chigwell, Essex third year, might help to turn things • Highly Recommended: Sarastro, You might also like: around. Let’s just hope that they don’t Drury Lane, London From kebabs to Cumberland sausages: encourage the good shops to lose the Best Newcomer Kebab Restaurant cooking meat on spits and skewers essential qualities that make a good • Winner: Pivaz, Hackney, London Lamb sausage kebabs with tzatziki dip kebab the original street food, or worse • Highly Recommended: Diyarbakir, recipe go the way of the hipster burger. Haringey, London Savoury yoghurt kebabs recipe

was attended by over a thousand guests, • Station Kebab (3 Queens Parade, including over 200 MPs and Peers such as Bounds Green, London N11 2DN) Lord Neil Kinnock, Nadhim Zahawi MP, • Cypriana Greek Restaurant (20 Lark Keith Vaz MP, Lord Ahmed of Wimbledon, Lane, Liverpool L17 8US) Takeaway restaurant, Kebabalicious, based Jonathan Reynolds and Andy Love. • Curipza (Millers Three, Southmill in Wythenshawe, Manchester, has won Road, Bishop’s Stortford, CM23 the JUST EAT Best Delivery Restaurant Kebabalicious will receive £1,500 of JUST 3DH) at this year’s British Kebab Awards. The EAT customer vouchers, to give away as • Star Kebab (169 Homerton High locally run restaurant scooped the award for they see fit to further drive orders. Street London, E9 6BB) its consistent food quality and renowned • Istanblue (37 Milkstone Road, service throughout Manchester, The Since JUST EAT first launched in the Rochdale, OL11 1EB) restaurant has been part of the JUST EAT UK in 2006, 13 million kebabs have been network for three years. ordered online from the company’s Turkish JUST EAT, the world’s leading online and Kurdish restaurant partners -placed takeaway delivery service, are official The British Kebab Awards, now in their end-to-end, they would stretch from sponsors of the British Kebab Awards, for third year, are the work of the Centre for London to Turkey! In 2014 alone, nearly the second year running. Turkey Studies. The ceremony, which six and a half million were ordered online, took place on Wednesday 7 January at 70% more than 2013. Kebabalicious can be found at 195 the Westminster Park Plaza Park Plaza Hollyhedge Road, Wythenshawe, M22 Westminster Bridge Hotel, London, The other nominations for the award were: 8UE 40 British Kebab Awards

the British economy. There are an estimated near Romford, was fined £7,500 after a 17,000 businesses involved in the kebab 3-inch drill bit was found in a customer’s chain - from suppliers to restaurants and döner kebab! However, the positive takeaways - which collectively employ over profile of kebabs continues to grow, aided 70,000 people. significantly by events such as these. The nation’s best: the winners from British Kebab Awards 2015 Kebabs are on an upward trajectory So on to the BKA winners. While kebabs are the staple fodder of There were 14 categories, among them Best Some one thousand people attended the countries from Greece through to India and Takeaway, Best Value, Fine Dining, Best British Kebab Awards last night, where they all nations in between and many beyond, Newcomer, and Best Chef. Local politicians were bizarrely treated to curry along with at the forefront of the UK industry are and people were asked to nominate the best kebabs as they heard this year’s winners. Turks and Kurds. They have taken what ones in their area, and of course outlets Now in its third year, the British Kebab was traditionally a late-night drunken and businesses could nominate themselves. Awards (BKA), organised by the Centre snack and presented it in a totally new Their local council score on aspects such as for Turkey Studies (CEFTUS) threw up light, using top quality ingredients and hygiene and environment get included into a range of new and familiar names in the traditional cooking methods, some even the scoring mix, along with how many local business, with a host of surprise winners opting for fine dining environments. votes each outlet amasses. From these, a too. shortlist is drawn up – see here for the BKA The humble kebab is on an upward 2015 Shortlist. The brainchild of İbrahim Doğuş trajectory that will continue to grow with (restaurateur – Troia), Mustafa Topkaya the likes of Alan Yau (of Hakkasan and The BKA judges, who this year included (pioneering kebab restaurateur), and Wagamama fame) joining the party with Baroness Meral Ece-Hussein, restaurateur Timur Ekingen (editor of Londra Gazete), his newly opened West End eatery Babaji James Breslaw and Önder Şahin – owner of BKA was set up with the aim of helping Pideand other leading chefs set to do the Ev and the Tas chain – then visit all those to promote kebabs, both as a tasty and same in 2015. on the shortlist to judge them on a range of nutritious meal, and also for its important criteria, while the public continues to cast contribution to the British economy. Of course, standards continue to vary and their vote for their favourite kebab joints. the industry is plagued by rogues. Only The two verdicts are then combined and The sector is annually worth £2.2 billion to last week a kebab eatery in Havering, the winners determined.

41 British Kebab Awards 4th British Kebab Awards (2016) Judging Panel

Shany Gupta Samson Sohail Rami Ranger Nadhim Zahawi Duncan Lewis Cobra Beer (Sales Director - CBE - Entrepreneur & Social Conservative Member of Solicitors Ethnic Restaurant Sector) & Political Reformer Parliament for Stratford on Avon

Mustafa Topkaya Metin Pekin Keith Vaz Jonathan Reynolds Board of Advisors Paragon Quality Foods Labour Member of Parliament Labour Co Op MP for BKA Awards for Leceister Stalybridge and Hyde

Altan Kemal Ali Matur Chartered Accountants Businessman - Wholesale fruit Alton and Co and vegetables.

42 British Kebab Awards

43 British Kebab Awards 4th British Kebab Awards (2016) Shortlist Customer Satisfaction Fine Dining Best Kebab Restaurant Best Takeaway in London in South London Chnarok Restaurant Sheesh Chigwell The Best Turkish Kebab 2B Hanworth Rd, London, High Rd, Chigwell IG7 6QA 125 Stoke Newington Rd, Hounslow TW3 1UA Meze Mangal Restaurant London N16 8BT Kazan Victoria 245 Lewisham Way, Meze Mangal Lewisham 93-94 Wilton Rd, London SE4 1XF 245 Lewisham Way, London SW1V 1DW Kebab Kid 90 New King’s Rd, Fulham, London SE4 1XF Turkuaz Restaurant Catford London SW6 4LU Ishtar Restaurant 163 Bromley Rd, London SE6 2NZ Selale Restaurant Harringay 10-12 Crawford St, 1-2, Salisbury Promenade, London W1U 6AZ Havet Restaurant Capital Kebab Haringey N8 0RX 195-197 High St, Bromley, 63 The Cut, Southwark, Hazev Kent BR1 1NN London SE1 8LL Cappadocia Restaurant Discovery Dock West, 2 South Quay 2, Station Buildings, Fife Rd, Square E14 9RT Hisar Restaurant Dulwich Aya Lebanese Kingston KT1 1SW 51 Lordship Ln, London SE22 8EP 193-197 Merton Rd, Haz Restaurant London SW19 1EE Istanbul Restaurant Finchley 9 Cutler St, London E1 7DJ Istanbul Meze Mangal 880 - 882 High Rd, London N12 9RH 222 High Street, The Woody Grill 1 Noura Lebanese London SW19 2BH Best Mangal 12 William St, London SW1X 9HL Camden Rd, London, 266 North End Rd, London W14 9EP Aya Lebanese Camden NW1 9LG Mirage Restaurant 193-197 Merton Rd, Hasan Meze Mangal 740 Eastern Ave, Ilford IG2 7HU London SW19 1EE Salamis Kebab House 14 Stoke Newington Rd, Kenza Restaurant & Lounge 402A Crambrook Rd, London N16 7XN Best Mangal Fulham London IG2 6HW 10 Devonshire Square, 619 Fulham Rd, London SW6 5UQ Maroush London EC2M 4YP 21 Edgware Rd, London W2 2JE Neo’s Kebab House Cappadocia Restaurant 405 Hornsey Rd, Fora Restaurant 2 Station Buildings, Fife Rd, London N19 4DX Olive’s Meze 34-36 Houndsditch, Kingston KT1 1SW 3131 Clapham High St, London EC3A 7DB London SW4 7SS Kazan Restaurant Petts Wood Kebab House Sofra Mayfair 93 Wilton Road London, SW1V 1DW 13 Chatsworth Parade, Marmaris Restaurant 18 Shepherd St, London W1J 7JG Orpington BR5 1DF Unit 1 Ferry Quays, Ferry Lane, Cyprus Mangal Brentford, London TW8 0BD 45 Warwick Way, Best Kebab Restaurant London SW1V 1QS Best Kebab Restaurant in North and West London Best Value Restaurant Outside London Best Kebab Restaurant Cappadocia Restaurant Antepliler Restaurant 43 - 47 Green Lanes, Outside London Ellesmere Port Kebab 2 Station Buildings, Fife Rd, Arcade, Regent St, London N4 1AG Kingston KT1 1SW Ellesmere Port CH65 8DX Kervan Restaurant Southgate Durum-Golders Green Irmak Grill 119 Ballards Ln, London N3 1LJ 28A Chapel St, Luton LU1 2SE Food Stop Takeaway 107 Chase Side, London N14 5QD Coppice Side Swadlincote Mangal 2 Stoke Newington Divan Restaurant Derbyshire DE11 9AE Gem Restaurant 2 Shenley Rd, 264-265 Upper St, London N1 2UQ 4 Stoke Newington Rd, London N16 8BH Borehamwood WD6 1DL Harlow Kebab Deja Vu Garden 23 Clifton Hatch, 52C, 52 High St, London E17 7LD Efes Restaurant Brick Lane The Meze Turkish Grill Harlow CM18 7FF 1 Whitechapel Rd, 269 Broadway, Bexleyheath, Ephesus Restaurant Leeds London E1 6TY Kent DA6 8DB Armenian Kebab House 4 Rodley Ln, Leeds LS13 1HU 29 Harrowside, Mezze Restaurant Woodford Mevan Restaurant Blackpool FY4 1QH Selale Restaurant 24 The Broadway, 11 Sun Street, Hitchin SG5 1AE 1-2, Salisbury Promenade, Woodford Green IG8 0HQ Curipza Takeaway Harringay N8 0RX Bodrum Kebab House 3 Southmill Rd, Bishop’s Selale Restaurant Haringey 242 Cowley Rd, Stortford CM23 3DH Sahan Restaurant 1-2, Salisbury Promenade, Oxford OX4 1UH Ilford Unit 3, I-Scene Complex, Haringey N8 0RX The Caterham Charcoal Grill Clements Road IG1 1BP Turkish Delight 75 High St, Pivaz Restaurant 573 Barlow Moor Rd, Caterham CR3 5UF Istanbul Barbecue & Bistro 34 Chatsworth Rd, London E5 0LP Manchester M21 8AE 39B Allerton Rd, Liverpool L25 7RE Medo Kebab House Aksular Restaurant Gzing Restaurant 71 East Bank St, Meze Mangal 510B Hertford Rd, Enfield, 2 Lincoln Rd, Leeds LS9 7NP Southport PR8 1EJ 81 High Rd, Bushey Heath WD23 1EL London EN3 5SS Akdeniz Turkish Restaurant Kebabalicious Slemani Restaurant Berber & Q 50 Hamlet Ct Rd, Southend-on-Sea, 95 Hollyhedge Rd, Manchester, 130 Edgware Rd, London W2 338 Acton Mews, London E8 4EA Westcliff-on-Sea SS0 7LX Lancashire M22 8UE

44 British Kebab Awards 4th British Kebab Awards (2016) Shortlist Best New Comer Restaurant Just Eat Outstanding Contribution Best in Scotland in London/Outside London Best Delivery Restaurant to the Kebab Industry Javit’s Takeaway 207 W Granton Rd, Mevan Restaurant Urfa Ocakbasi Ace 4 Kebabs Edinburgh EH5 1PD 11 Sun Street, Turkish Restaurant 4 Tuscany Way Hitchin, SG5 1AE 18-20 St James Street, E17 7PF Blackbushe Business Pk, Samsun’s Speciality Kebab Kebub, White Swan Yateley GU46 6GF & Pizza House 651 Ferry Rd, Edinburgh EH4 34 Bromford Ln, Station Kebab West Bromwich B70 7HW 3 Queens Parade, Easy Cut Ltd Hanam’s Restaurant Centre of Excellence Hope Park, Bounds Green, N11 2DN 3 Johnston Terrace, Deraliye Trevor Foster Way, Bradford, West Edinburgh EH1 2PW 98 Cockfosters Road, EN4 0DP Istanbul BBQ House Yorkshire BD5 8HH Antepliler Doner 94 Shackerdale Road, Nawroz Restaurant 26-30 Potterrow, 43 Grand Parade, Green Lanes, Leicester LE2 6HS Vatan Catering Edinburgh EH8 9BT Haringey N4 1AG Mill Mead Road, Unit 37-43, Milano Kebab Mill Mead Industrial Centre, Pera Turkish Restaurant Gokyuzu Restaurant Tottenham Hale, London 430 Downham Way, 57 Elm Row, Edinburgh EH7 4AQ Chingford Bromley BR1 5HR Southend Road, Chingford, Istanbul Meats Ltd Hanedan Turkish Restaurant London, E4 8TA 41 W Preston St, Edinburgh EH8 9PY Golden BBQ First Ave, Drum Industrial Estate, Chester le Street DH2 1AG Lefke Turkish Charcoal Grill 112 Caerphilly Rd, Verdo Turkish BBQ Restaurant & Meze House Cardiff CF14 4QG 21 Newington Rd, 30 Corbets Tey Rd, Total Shopfitting Edinburgh EH9 1QS Upmister RM14 2AD Mega Charcoal Grill Solutions Ltd Yeni Restaurant Unit B, Watkins House, 11 High St, Cheshunt, 73 Hanover St, Edinburgh EH2 1EE Istanbul Finchley Waltham Cross EN8 0BX Pegamoid Rd, 880-882 High Road, London N18 2NG Alla - Turca North Finchley, N12 9RH Charcoal Grill Hainhault 192 Pitt Street, Glasgow G2 4DY Easy Shelf Mez-opotamia Restaurant 168 Fencepiece Rd, Kervan Palace Ilford IG6 2LB 17 Wellington Road, 61 Bridge St, Glasgow, 84-86 High Road, Leyton E10 7QF South Woodford, E18 2NA Lanarkshire G5 9JB Kebab World Yasmeen Restaurant 67 Old Church Rd, London E4 6ST Veli’s Kebab & Meat 1 Blenheim Terrace, Supplies Ltd Best in Wales London NW8 0EH Torquay Charcoal Grill Anderstaff Industrial Estate, 35 Abbey Rd, Torquay TQ2 5NQ Hawkins Lane, Burton Upon Trent, Corfu Kebab House Aksular Restaurant Staffordshire, DE14 1QH 36 Water St, Rhyl, Clwyd LL18 1SS Finsbury Park Kurdistan Restaurant 145 Stroud Green Road, 181-183 Spring Bank, Anatolian Foods Al-Des Kebab 90 Rheidol Ave, Clase, Finsbury Park, London N4 3PZ Hull HU3 1LP Unit 3, Langhedge Ln, Swansea SA6 7JS London N18 2TQ Best in Wales Curipza Khyber Kebab 3 Southmill Rd, J.J Food Service 21 Corporation Rd, Cardiff, Bishop’s Stortford CM23 3DH 7 Solar Way, Enfield, EN3 7XY South Glamorgan CF11 7AN Jemos Kebabs & Pizza Family Kebab House 993 Upper Newtownards Rd, Kismet Kebabs Dundonald, Belfast BT16 1RN The Best Chef 101 Cwmamman Road, Milton House, Maldon Road, Glanamman SA18 1DZ The Sphinx Latchingdon, Essex CM3 6LF 74 Stranmillis Rd, Belfast, Onder Sahan New Best Kebab 16 Corporation Road, County Antrim BT9 5AD Sami Ozkuzucu Best Young Chef Newport NP19 0AR Lydia’s Pizzeria & Servet Cavli Kebab House KBS Kebab House 242 City Road, Cardiff, CF24 3JJ 38 Belmont Rd, Belfast, Ali Dirik Tolga Ozkan County Antrim BT4 2AN Huseyin Celik Mazlum Demir Istanbul Kebab House Guccii Chip 113 Bryn Heulog, Cardiff, Sahin Gok Sinan Toguz South Glamorgan CF23 7JD 133-137 Lisburn Rd, Belfast, County Antrim BT9 7AG Yusuf Ozkan Mumin Arabaci Golden BBQ Turkish Kebab & Hasan Eksi Haydar Polat 112 Caerphilly Rd, Cardiff CF14 4QG Pizza House Ali Kepez Huseyin doldur Pizza Choice 112 Andersontown Road, 22 Countisbury Ave, Cardiff, Belfast BT11 9BX Besnik Hajdari Ali Ekber Doymaz South Glamorgan CF3 5SJ

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