ZipPicks Awards
Best Middle Eastern in Greenpoint
Master Critic Review
Kestane Kebab
7.7
Kestane Kebab is a Turkish and Middle Eastern kebab shop focused on grills, doner, and platters in a straightforward Franklin Street space. It’s used most for hearty takeout and casual sit-down meals where mixed grills and rice plates matter more than décor.
Must-Try Dishes:
Lamb Shish & Chicken Shish Platter, Adana Kebab Platter, Doner Kebab Sandwich
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 7.4
Consistency: 7.5
Food Quality: 8
Atmosphere: 6.2
Cultural Relevance: 6
What makes it special: A no-frills Turkish kebab shop turning out filling grills and doner late into the evening.
Who should go: Hungry diners wanting big kebab platters and straightforward shawarma.
When to visit: Dinner hours and late evening when the grill turnover is highest.
What to order: Mixed lamb and chicken shish platter, adana kebab, doner sandwich.
Insider tip: Prioritize combo platters over extra sides—the portion size easily feeds two with an added salad.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Street parking along Franklin Street can be tight at peak dinner hours; expect some circling but meters and residential spots usually open up after 9pm.
Dress code: Casual—hoodies, jeans, and streetwear are all normal for this counter-style kebab setting.
Noise level: Low to moderate—mostly takeout flow and small dine-in chatter, easy to hold a conversation.
Weekend wait: 10–20 minutes during peak hours, mainly for grill turnover and takeout queues.
Weekday lunch: Typically no wait—orders are taken and served quickly.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes—expect falafel, salads, hummus, and veggie sides, though the menu is meat-forward.
Vegan options: Limited—falafel plates, salads, and some dips may work; confirm sauces and add-ons at the counter.
Gluten-free options: Some items can be made gluten-free (rice platters, salads, grilled meats without bread), but no dedicated prep space.
Best For
Better for: Large, filling kebab platters and late-night doner at budget pricing—faster, heavier, and cheaper than more polished Middle Eastern spots in the area.
Skip if: Skip if you want ambiance, cocktails, or a slower, sit-down experience—choose a higher-end Middle Eastern restaurant nearby for atmosphere and variety.