W hen in doubt, find a Kebab. For Muslim travelers in Poland, "Turkish Kebab" signs are beacons of hope.
Zakopane has a surprising number of high-quality Turkish eateries. Unlike some European cities where "kebab" means doubtful mystery meat, the Turkish spots in Zakopane often serve high-quality, halal-certified cuts.
Top Picks for Kebab
1. Craft Kebab
Known for their "Craft" approach - they use better quality meat and fresh vegetables. Their spicy sauce is actually spicy!
2. Hossen Kebab
The savior for late-night hunger. Hossen is an institution in Zakopane. Portions are huge.
How to Order
"Poproszę kebab w bułce" = Kebab in a bun, please.
"Baranina" = Lamb/Mutton (usually beef mix)
"Kurczak" = Chicken
"Ostry sos" = Spicy sauce
"Łagodny sos" = Mild sauce
Turkish and Middle Eastern Cuisine in Zakopane
Kebab restaurants are the most reliable halal dining option for Muslim visitors to Zakopane. The town has several dedicated kebab and Turkish cuisine spots, all operating with 100% halal meat, and most serving a menu broad enough to satisfy both adults and children. Understanding what each place offers helps you plan meals efficiently without spending time researching on arrival.
The standard Polish kebab (kebab) is typically served in a flatbread wrap or on a plate with rice, salad, and sauce. It differs slightly from Turkish doner in that the wrap bread is thicker and the sauces are more varied (garlic, spicy, BBQ). All the dedicated kebab restaurants in Zakopane use halal-certified chicken and beef; pork is not used in any standard kebab preparation.
The Main Venues
Craft Kebab is the most modern and premium option, located a short walk from the main Krupówki strip. It specialises in craft-style kebabs with quality meat, fresh-baked flatbread, and a rotation of seasonal sauces. Full review available in our Craft Kebab review. Expect to pay 30–38 PLN for a wrap. The restaurant has seating for approximately 30 people and fills quickly at lunchtime in peak season.
Hossen Kebab is conveniently located directly on Krupówki and is the highest-volume option — fast service, reliable quality, and a longer menu including doner plates, mixed grills, and falafel. Price range 22–32 PLN for standard items. Outdoor seating is available in summer. A good choice for a quick lunch between activities.
Restauracja Habibi offers a sit-down Middle Eastern restaurant experience with a broader menu including hummus plates, grilled meats, mezze, and rice dishes. Suitable for a proper dinner rather than a quick bite. Prices are higher (mains 45–75 PLN) but the portions are generous and the atmosphere is better for families or couples wanting a longer meal. Booking ahead is advisable at peak times.
Mr. Eyes Kebab operates near the bus station area and is a budget-friendly option mainly popular with younger visitors. Menu is standard kebab-house fare at slightly lower prices (20–28 PLN). Useful as a backup option if Craft Kebab and Hossen are busy.
Ordering Tips
- Ask for kurczak (chicken) or wołowina (beef) to specify your meat preference. Chicken is more consistently available and popular.
- All sauces at dedicated kebab restaurants are pork-free. Garlic sauce (sos czosnkowy) and spicy sauce (sos ostry) are the most popular.
- Extra flatbread (dodatkowy chleb) is usually available for a small charge (2–3 PLN) — useful for larger portions.
- Most venues offer a plate version (na talerzu) if you prefer not to eat from a wrap.
- Vegetarian options (falafel, halloumi) are available at Habibi and Craft Kebab.
Peak Hours to Avoid
Lunchtime queues at Hossen Kebab and Craft Kebab on Krupówki peak between 13:00 and 14:30 in July and August. Arriving before 12:30 or after 15:00 avoids the worst waits. Evening service (after 18:00) is generally quick at all venues. Habibi is quieter at lunch and busier at dinner — book the 19:00 slot if eating as a group.