It’s 3am, your pick-up lines haven’t worked, your new dance moves haven’t done you any favours, and you’re down to your last $10. Having been there once or twice, I’ve learned that the only thing you can do is to call it a night and seek comfort in the warm arms of a kebab.

But while we often think of kebabs as a late night consolation prize, there’s no reason why we can’t enjoy them when the sun’s up. After all, what’s wrong with a bit of fresh bread, grilled meat and salad?

So next time you’re after a quick lunch, post-workout reward, or something to snuggle up on the couch with, grab a kebab from one of Canberra’s best below! (Just go easy on the garlic sauce if you’re planning on talking to people for the rest of the day.)

Turkish Halal Pide House
45 Nova Street, Yarralumla

The Yarralumla Pide House’s famous kebabs are filled with a mountain of meat and wrapped in a fresh pita that’s so soft and fluffy, you’ll want to dive in and take a nap in it. Look to the right of the counter to watch them making the pita dough – it’s an impressive operation.

Star Kebabs
Fyshwick Markets

You’ll be giving this place a gold Star once you’ve had one of their kebabs – they’re fresh, big, and made with an even bigger smile. If by some miracle you’re still hungry afterwards, try their Manoush (Lebanese pizza) – they’re the only place in Canberra that make them.

On Flinders
5 Flinders Way, Manuka

When Manuka’s much-loved kebab shop Kismet closed, most of us lost the will to show up for work the next day. But the owners have opened On Flinders in its place, and they still do a mean kebab! They’re filled with tender chargrilled meat – and now that they’re served on a plate, there’s no excuse for spilling sauce all down your shirt.

Wood & Coal
125 Bunda Street, Civic

For you northsiders who don’t make a habit of crossing the lake, Wood & Coal has got your kebab cravings covered. Their lunch menu features a souva (an abbreviation for souvlaki that originated in – where else – Australia!), with your choice of chicken or lamb that’s been lovingly roasted over the spit.

Zehni’s Turkish Kitchen
Gungahlin Market Place

Zehni’s Turkish Kitchen has quickly become Gungahlin’s go-to for a Turkish feed. Already a hit with local residents and tradies, their kebabs are sure to entice those working in the new government office across the road. If you’re too busy (or hungover) to get there, they even deliver to Gungahlin suburbs!