Usta Charcoal Grill

If you're walking down Kilburn High Road in London and the scent of charcoal-grilled meat hits you, there’s a good chance it’s coming from Usta Charcoal Grill at 249 Kilburn High Rd, NW6 7JN. This is one of those neighborhood gems that combines Turkish and Middle Eastern culinary traditions with a modern, cozy London vibe.

As someone who's eaten at more kebab spots than I can count, Usta Charcoal Grill stands out for one big reason: authenticity. They don’t just grill kebabs; they craft them. The Iskender Kebab is a must-try if you like your meat juicy and soaked in tomato-butter sauce over pillowy bread. It’s hearty, comforting, and honestly hard to beat. But if you’re dining with friends or just feel like sampling everything, go for the Mixed Meze Grill for 4 People - it’s a festival on a plate.

Now, let’s talk vibes. Usta is casual, yet warm - it welcomes everyone. The seating is spacious enough, with wheelchair accessibility throughout, including restrooms. Whether you're popping in for a quick solo lunch or planning a late dinner with family, it's got the kind of layout that accommodates without feeling cramped. There's no on-site parking for wheelchair users, but the street-level entrance makes it navigable.

People love coming here for lunch and dinner, especially those who crave a proper meal without the fine-dining fuss. It’s not rare to see regulars grabbing a takeaway Chicken Shish, or sipping on fresh lemonade while waiting on their Lahmacun - the Turkish flatbread topped with minced meat and herbs that’s crispy and flavorful in all the right ways.

If you're into variety, the Mixed Kebab Platter gives you a bit of everything - lamb, chicken, kofta, all grilled over real charcoal, not some electric excuse for a grill. The Grilled Sea Bass is another sleeper hit. Not every grill place handles seafood well, but Usta nails the crispy skin and moist interior every single time.

Veggie lovers aren’t left behind, either. Dishes like the Mix Vegetable Plate, Hummus and Chilli Sauce, and Tarama Salata are fresh and vibrant. There's a healthy balance between indulgence and nutrition, which makes it a go-to for anyone looking for healthy Mediterranean food in the Kilburn area.

A unique perk? The tea selection. Many overlook it, but the Turkish tea here is a highlight. Served traditionally, it pairs beautifully with Baklava or Toffee Pudding if you’re ending your meal on a sweet note.

Halal food is served across the menu, which is something a lot of locals appreciate. Whether you're dining in, taking away, or ordering for delivery (including no-contact options), the food stays consistent. The restaurant also offers organic dishes, vegetarian options, and even late-night bites, so it easily becomes a regular go-to for those nearby.

Beverage-wise, they’ve got Turkish coffee, wine, beer, and even cocktails - perfect if you’re making a full evening out of it. You can even just drop by for a quick bite, thanks to their selection of small plates and sides like French Fries, Naan, and Lentil Soup.

Compared to other Middle Eastern spots in North London, what makes Usta Charcoal Grill different is the balance between authentic recipes and modern service. There’s no gimmick - just well-cooked food, generous portions, and staff that care about the experience. And in a city full of eateries trying to "reimagine" traditional dishes, sometimes it’s refreshing to sit down to food that’s made the way it’s meant to be.

Whether you’re craving bold flavors, a family meal, or just a good kebab after a long day, Usta Charcoal Grill checks every box - and then some.