WITH two restaurants reaching the semi-finals of the British Kebab Awards 2026, we set out to discover what makes them stand out from the crowd - and which one got our vote!
Their success being shortlisted is significant given the scale of the competition.
Now in its 15th year, the British Kebab Awards has become one of the hospitality industry's most prestigious events, with winners decided by public vote.
This year, 500 businesses from across the UK have been named semi-finalists, with the winners set to be announced at a gala ceremony in London on February 23, 2027.
First on the shortlist to try was Meram Kitchen in Christchurch, which has been shortlisted for best value restaurant. It has already been recognised in previous British Kebab Awards and is known for its Mediterranean and Turkish cuisine.
Meram Kitchen felt more like a destination restaurant than a takeaway spot, with its stylish setting and relaxed atmosphere making it an ideal place for an evening meal, family celebration or a catch-up with friends.
Combined with the generous hospitality and quality food, it is easy to see why it continues to earn recognition in national awards.
Before our main course even arrived, the table was filled with freshly baked bread and an impressive selection of Turkish dips and meze, giving us plenty to sample while soaking up the atmosphere.
For the main course, we opted for the chicken shish kebab. The meat arrived perfectly grilled, tender and full of flavour, paired with fresh salad and accompaniments that complemented the dish without overpowering it. Portions were generous and there was a clear emphasis on quality ingredients.
We then visited Pasha Kebabs in Bournemouth town centre, another finalist in this year’s awards for best delivery highlighting its reputation for bringing quality Turkish cuisine directly to customers' doors.
Opting to dine in, once again, the chicken shish was the star of the show, arriving perfectly cooked with a smoky char from the grill. The freshness of the ingredients stood out, while the friendly service added to the overall experience.
Picking a favourite proved surprisingly difficult. Both restaurants delivered high-quality food, generous portions and genuine hospitality. Meram Kitchen perhaps edged ahead on the overall dine-in experience thanks to its selection of dips and extras, while Pasha Kebabs also excelled on convenience. With speedy service and freshly prepared food, it's the perfect option for those wanting a quality kebab delivered straight to their door.
Both restaurants catered for a wide range of tastes, with extensive menus offering everything from traditional kebabs and grilled meats to vegetarian options, ensuring there was something for everyone.
Voting for the final stage of the British Kebab Awards 2026 is now open and will close on 15 October 2026. To vote for your favourite see https://www.britishkebabawards.co.uk/bka_vote_master_2026
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