Dristor Kebap – The most famous shaormerie in the capital, with several locations (Dristor, Sos. Mihai Bravu – “Soc” etc.). The portions are very large, with juicy meat, garlic sauce and plenty of pickles. Prices range ~ 20-30 lei (small / large shaorma). “The Shaorma of Dristor is very delicious. Quality meat, huge portions of food – and it was very cheap,” according to a review. Although some locals say that Dristor is “just famous, not the best” and recommends the Shaorma of Soc Kebap as a more tasty alternative, Dristor remains a must for any appetizer, being practically the place that brought the shaorma to the Bucharest mainstream.
.calif – Modern chain of gourmet shaormers, known for “dil” (their version of Lebanese dürüm) and options with unique ingredients (zucchini, melted cheese). Prices are ~ 20 lei for an average dil. Their balanced recipe makes “the product is exactly what it needs to be,” and a common advice is: “necessarily try the ayran – probably one of the best on the market.” Customers praise the taste harmony in the .calif shaorma, lighter but full of flavor, which “makes you come back for taste, every time.”
Shaormeria Băneasa – A local place (in the area of Pasaj Băneasa) became legendary among the connoisseurs for the excellent price-quality ratio. A shaorma here (~ 20 lei) stands out through the tender and well-seasoned chicken meat (a mix of rotisate and steam, for extra fraternity), combined with curry sauce and spicy mayonnaise – a unique combination “leading this shaorma to its own league.” The service is quick and friendly. Many say that in Băneasa “you get every time satisfaction,” being the perfect choice when you want something tasty “fast forward.”
La Fati – Shaormerie de cariera (Berceni) with cult status, appreciated for its special taste and generosity of the portion. Their paste hides “absolutely succulent meat, brownish and soft fries,” and at the first bite you get a drop of spicy spice that “ennobles the preparation at its true value.” The price of a shaorma is ~ 25 lei (large size). The atmosphere is simple, but customers come back because “the shaorma here has the gift of subtle tickling your shaormar gland… It’s a dish that tastes like, not just eating” – sign that La Fatso offers an experience, not just a meal.
Shaorma Soc (Dristor Soc) – A shaormerie in the east of the city, derived from the brand Dristor, known for its enormous portions (a shaorma “half a kilogram”) and the strong flavor of garlic sauce. The prices are similar to Dristor (20-30 lei). Although quality has fluctuated over time, many believe that “Shoe has the chance to give the best shaorma” with a little extra attention. Those who love it praise the well-ruined glue and the “trick to glue” (special way of packing) from Soc. It’s the preferred option of many nocturnal Bucharest, being open late.
Efendi Doner – A place with authentic Turkish speciality (in the Labour Market area), where experience goes beyond taste. Beef and sheep are tender, seasoned with the original Oriental spices, and French fries are considered “such as you can’t find anywhere else” – hand-cut, crispy and sprinkled with cheese. A shaorma / döner here is ~ 30 lei, but the portion is generous and includes assorted pickles salad. Many customers call visiting Efendi “a journey in itself,” thanks to the oriental setting and careful service. For a complete experience, you can end the meal with a Turkish tea on the house, in an atmosphere as in Istanbul.
This article is an English translation and adaptation of the original Romanian article on Lista Scurtă. Read the Romanian version.
