Lukas Podolski, the renowned German footballer and 2014 World Cup champion, is set to open his first kebab restaurant in Poland, igniting excitement among fans and food lovers alike. The announcement came in mid-March 2025 via Podolski's Instagram, where he shared a photo of himself preparing a kebab, a dish that has become a staple in his chain of Mangal Döner locations across Germany. This new venture will be located at pl. Wolności 4 in Zabrze, a site that previously housed a McDonald's.
The mayor of Zabrze, Agnieszka Rupniewska, confirmed that the opening of Mangal Döner is scheduled for around Easter, which falls in two weeks. "I know that the residents of the city are waiting for this moment, so I inform you that the opening of Mangal Döner will take place around Easter," Rupniewska stated. This means that eager fans can expect to get their first taste of Podolski's kebabs in the week following Easter, likely around April 27, 2025.
Podolski’s enthusiasm for the project has been palpable, as he aims to bring the flavors and experience of his successful German restaurants to Poland. His chain has over thirty locations in Germany, and he hopes to replicate that success in his home country. The restaurant's menu will feature a range of kebab options, with prices that are expected to be competitive. In Cologne, for instance, a basic kebab costs 7.90 euros, while fries are priced at 4.90 euros. The highlight of the menu is the "World Champion Plate," which is available for 13.90 euros.
Agnieszka Rupniewska expressed her excitement about the new restaurant, sharing her personal experience at one of Podolski's locations in Cologne. "I visited one of the locations in Cologne during Lukas's farewell match, and it was great. I enjoyed the food, but I also liked the decor. Zabrze will probably be similar," she remarked. This sentiment reflects the anticipation surrounding the opening, as many locals hope to enjoy both the cuisine and the atmosphere that Podolski’s restaurants are known for.
The choice of Zabrze for the restaurant is significant, as it is a city deeply connected to Podolski's roots. The footballer spent part of his childhood in Poland before moving to Germany, and this venture represents a homecoming of sorts. The location at pl. Wolności 4 is strategically chosen to attract both locals and visitors, especially football fans who admire Podolski's illustrious career.
As the opening date approaches, the buzz around Mangal Döner is growing. Social media is abuzz with discussions among fans and food enthusiasts eager to try what Podolski has to offer. The establishment is expected to not only serve delicious food but also become a gathering spot for the community, further enhancing the connection between Podolski and his fans.
In conclusion, Lukas Podolski's foray into the culinary world with Mangal Döner in Zabrze is a thrilling development for both his fans and the local community. With its opening slated for around Easter, the anticipation for the first taste of Poldiego kebabs is palpable, promising to deliver a unique dining experience that blends Podolski's football legacy with his passion for food.
