Döner, shawarma and gyros look strikingly alike: thinly sliced, spiced meat grilled on a vertical rotating spit. Yet they come from three different cuisines — Turkish, Arab and Greek — and differ in spices, meat and sides.
Döner — the Turkish origin
The döner kebab is the Turkish original: the vertical spit emerged in Turkey in the 19th century. Often beef, lamb or chicken, with Turkish spices, served in bread, on a plate or as İskender.
Shawarma — the Arab variant
Shawarma comes from the Arab/Levantine kitchen. The seasoning is different (cumin, cinnamon, cardamom) and it's often served with garlic sauce and tahini.
Gyros — the Greek variant
Gyros is the Greek version, usually with tzatziki (yoghurt-cucumber), tomato and onion in pita. The seasoning leans on oregano and thyme.
Which do you choose?
Taste decides — but the origin is Turkish. Taste authentic, 100% halal döner dishes in the meat dishes or browse the full menu.
Frequently asked questions
Is shawarma the same as döner?
They look alike (meat from a vertical spit) but differ in origin and seasoning: döner is Turkish, shawarma Arab.
What's the difference between gyros and döner?
Gyros is Greek (often with tzatziki and oregano); döner is Turkish with Turkish spices.
Is döner at Yasemin halal?
Yes, all meat is 100% halal.
Last updated: June 2026.
