It’s the iconic centerpiece of every great kebab shop: the tall, spinning tower of seasoned meat, glowing under intense heat. But when it comes time to actually buy one, many people find themselves asking the same question: what is that machine actually called?

The truth is, there isn’t one single name. The machine is known by several different titles, and the name used often depends on the cuisine being served and the region you’re in. However, they all refer to the same brilliant piece of cooking technology.

Let’s slice into the most common names for a kebab machine.

The Technical Term: Vertical Broiler

In the commercial kitchen equipment industry, the most accurate and universal term is the vertical broiler.

This name perfectly describes what the machine is and what it does:

• Vertical: It holds the meat upright on a vertical spit.
• Broiler: It cooks the meat with intense, direct radiant heat.

If you are searching for this equipment from a restaurant supplier, using the term “vertical broiler” will get you the most precise results.

The Most Common Names: Based on the Dish

While “vertical broiler” is the technical name, the machine is more famously known by the name of the dish it creates. The three most popular names are all tied to a specific culinary tradition.

1. Döner Machine

This is perhaps the most widely recognized name, especially throughout Europe. It comes from the Turkish döner kebab, which translates to “rotating roast.” The döner kebab is the foundation for the modern vertical roasting method, invented in the 19th century Ottoman Empire and popularized in Germany by Turkish immigrants. When you hear “döner machine,” you’re referencing its direct Turkish heritage.

2. Shawarma Machine

In Arabic and throughout the Middle East and the Levant, you will hear it called a shawarma machine. The word “shawarma” is itself an Arabic rendering of the Turkish word çevirme, which means “to turn.” Like döner, the name describes the cooking action. It’s used to prepare the beloved shawarma wraps, typically with lamb, chicken, or beef.

3. Gyro Machine

In Greece, the machine is known as a gyro machine. The name comes from the Greek word γύρος (pronounced yee-ros), which means “turn” or “circle.” Sound familiar? A gyro is the Greek version of the dish, most famously made with pork or chicken and served in a pita.

So, What’s the Difference?

The key takeaway is that the core technology is the same. Whether it’s called a döner machine, a shawarma machine, or a gyro machine, it’s still a vertical broiler. The different names simply reflect the culinary history of the dish being prepared.

All these machines consist of:

• A long vertical spit to stack the meat.
• A powerful heat source (gas or electric) at the back.
• A motor to rotate the spit for even cooking.

The Verdict: While the official industry term is vertical broiler, you can confidently use döner machine, shawarma machine, or gyro machine when searching for equipment. All roads lead to the same essential tool for crafting one of the world’s favorite dishes.

Ready to start serving? Browse our complete collection of professional vertical broilers and find the perfect machine for your döner, shawarma, or gyro needs.