Exploring the Different Types of Kebabs, From Kofta to Shish

Assorted Israeli-style kebabs grilling over open flame at Grill Point
Assorted Israeli-style kebabs grilling over open flame at Grill Point
Many different types of kebabs have been enjoyed for generations, from Middle Eastern street markets to Israeli family tables. Each has its own style based on different cuts and seasoning traditions. When you order authentic Israeli-Mediterranean kebabs at Grill Point, you’ll smell the spices and hear the sizzle of 100% Glatt Kosher meat on open flames before it reaches your table.

Popular Types of Kebabs: Kofta vs Adana vs Shish

Close-up of kebabs served with pita and salads at Grill Point

In Israeli cooking, kebabs are made in distinct ways, from hand-shaped ground meat to marinated cubes. These differences affect the flavor, texture, and spice level of each kebab. Let’s take a look at kofta, adana, and shish kebabs.

At Grill Point, kebabs are prepared daily and grilled to order under Glatt Kosher supervision, ensuring each kebab arrives hot and fresh.

Close-up of kebabs served with pita and salads at Grill Point
Each kofta skewer is shaped by hand and grilled fresh to order on an open flame, giving it its signature tender texture and even flavor.

What is Kofta Kebab?

Each kofta skewer is shaped by hand and grilled fresh to order on an open flame, giving it its signature tender texture and even flavor.
Kofta (or kūfta) has become one of the most recognizable kebabs in Israeli street food and cuisine. It’s made from finely ground beef mixed with simple seasonings like parsley, onion, and a touch of spice to complement the meat. Then, it is shaped directly onto skewers and grilled until the outside forms a charred crust, while the inside remains tender and juicy. At Grill Point, our kofta kebabs are made fresh daily and hand-shaped to order.

Each kofta skewer is shaped by hand and grilled fresh to order on an open flame, giving it its signature tender texture and even flavor

What is Adana Kebab?

Spiced Adana kebab skewers grilled fresh at Grill Point
Adana kebab originated in Turkey and has since influenced Israeli kitchens. Minced lamb meat is blended with red pepper flakes for heat, cumin for warmth, and sumac for brightness, before being shaped into skewers by hand. Find these aromatic adana kebabs at our Queens location as a main or kids’ meal.
Spiced Adana kebab skewers grilled fresh at Grill Point
Spiced Adana kebab skewers grilled fresh at Grill Point

What is Shish Kebab?

Spiced Adana kebab skewers grilled fresh at Grill Point
Shish kebab is made with tender marinated meat that is cubed and threaded onto a skewer before grilling. These originated with nomadic tribes and then Ottoman soldiers who would use their swords as skewers for quick cooking over a fire. At Grill Point, we offer chicken, beef, and lamb shish kebabs, which can be enjoyed with pita, laffa, or in a bowl with meze. If you prefer whole cuts over minced meat, you’ll love these.

The Kebab Comparison at a Glance

All kebabs are flame-grilled. Here’s what sets them apart:

Kebab Type 

Meat Preparation

Seasoning Style

Best For 

Kofta

Finely ground beef shaped onto skewers

Mild, balanced seasoning

Classic flavor lovers

Adana

Ground lamb mixed with spices

Bolder, slightly spicier

Spice-seekers

Shish

Marinated cubes of meat

Marinade flavoring

Whole meat fans

Still Can’t Decide? Go for the Mixt Grill

If you can’t choose just one, don’t. Order the mix grill for a taste of all three types of kebabs on one platter. Taste the kofta, adana, and shish side by side to find your favourite.

Frequently Asked Questions

Kofta kebab is often the most familiar choice thanks to its mild seasoning and tender texture. Many diners start there before branching out to adana or shish on the Grill Point menu.

Shish kebab uses cubed meat grilled on skewers, while kofta and adana kebabs are made from seasoned ground meat shaped around the skewer. In short, when you’re looking at adana and kofta vs shish kebabs, adana and kofta are smooth, while shish is chunky. We offer all three options at Grill Point locations near you.

Adana kebab is the spiciest option. At Grill Point, we serve adana kebabs at our Queens location.

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Amy Peretz

As co-owner of Grill Point, Amy Peretz has spent over 10 years managing daily operations and preserving the same shawarma recipes locals have loved for 20+ years.

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