A short drive from Coral Springs reveals Boca Raton’s booming Turkish street food scene that’s capturing the hearts of locals and visitors alike
Boca Raton, Florida – Just a short drive from Coral Springs, the city of Boca Raton is becoming a new hotspot for Turkish cuisine, thanks to the arrival of several Turkish street food joints. Over the past few months, the city has seen a surge in the opening of Turkish restaurants, with three newcomers offering dishes that have long been adored from Istanbul to Berlin and London. With an emphasis on doner kebab – the Turkish street food staple – these restaurants bring a taste of Turkey right to the heart of Palm Beach County.
Turkey’s rich culinary tradition is influenced by its unique position as a bridge between East and West, with Istanbul as the perfect representation of this blend. Now, locals and visitors alike in Boca Raton are discovering what makes Turkish street food a global favorite. At the forefront of this culinary wave are Keb-Up American Doner Kebab, CITIR Turkish Doner Kebab, and Generous Gyros. While each eatery has its unique flair, they all share a commitment to serving up delicious, no-fuss doner kebabs and other Turkish specialties.
Keb-Up American Doner Kebab in Mizner Park has earned a loyal following with its casual approach to this street food favorite. Located at 179 SE Mizner Boulevard, the spot offers a variety of doner options, from beef and chicken to falafel, all served on pita, rollo (flatbread with cheese), wraps, or even atop salads, fries, or rice. The restaurant keeps it simple yet satisfying, with the focus on the high-quality meat cooked on a vertical rotisserie. Their approach to serving doner on paper makes it easy to grab and go, offering a quick yet flavorful meal for those on the move.
Over at CITIR Turkish Doner Kebab, located at 499 NE Spanish River Boulevard, this fast-casual spot stands out with its wide variety of doner options, including beef, lamb, and chicken. The doners are generously filled with fresh vegetables like tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and onions, making each bite both refreshing and flavorful. For those with a sweet tooth, CITIR also offers an extensive dessert menu featuring traditional Turkish treats. From different types of baklava to sutlac, a creamy rice pudding topped with hazelnuts and cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. The restaurant’s signature dessert, kabak tatlisi, features candied squash with cinnamon and walnuts – a perfect Turkish take on pumpkin spice, ideal for the cooler months.
Meanwhile, Generous Gyros, located at 2621 N Federal Highway, brings a slightly upscale yet equally delicious twist to Turkish street food. Known for its generous portions, this eatery serves doner with a mix of fried potatoes, tomato-cucumber salad, sumac onions, pickles, and lavash bread. To wash it down, the restaurant offers a full bar featuring Turkish Pilsner, Efes, alongside domestic brews. For those seeking something stronger, raki, Turkey’s national anise-flavored drink, is available, along with çay, the classic Turkish tea, ayran (a tart yogurt-based beverage), and şalgam suyu, a fermented turnip drink. For the true experience, don’t forget to sip on Turkish coffee, a must-try for any fan of authentic Turkish culture.
These three eateries serve up more than just meals – they bring the essence of Turkey’s vibrant street food culture to Palm Beach County. Whether you’re enjoying a simple doner kebab or indulging in a rich Turkish dessert, each restaurant gives a glimpse into the history of the Ottoman Empire, where street food has always been a central part of the community’s social life.
For those not looking to hop on a plane to Istanbul (or Constantinople, as it was once known), Boca Raton’s Turkish restaurants offer an equally rewarding culinary journey. Each restaurant offers a unique experience, yet all provide the same warmth and flavor that have made Turkish food beloved across the world.
So, if you’re in the mood for an international culinary adventure, head to one of Boca Raton’s newest Turkish spots and indulge in the very best of what the Ottoman Empire has to offer. Whether you’re new to Turkish food or a long-time lover, these establishments will leave you craving more of that perfectly spiced doner and traditional Turkish treats.
