Cafe Baklava Doner Kebab introduces Killeen to Turkish cuisine, expanding its reach to all of Central Texas after ten years on Fort Cavazos post.
KILLEEN, Texas — Nestled just outside the gates of Fort Cavazos, Cafe Baklava Doner Kebab is introducing the Killeen community to the rich, savory flavors of traditional Turkish cuisine — one kebab at a time.
Originally from Turkey, owner Murat Bozkurt opened his first Mediterranean restaurant after moving to California in 2006.
Years later, he moved to Fort Cavazos and spent a decade serving soldiers and their families on post under a food contract. But when that contract ended in March 2024, Bozkurt and his team brought their beloved dishes to the public by opening a new location off-post.
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“People loved my food on base, but not everyone could get through the gate,” Bozkurt said. “So we decided to come off post and open to more customers. Every day, we see more people walk through the door.”
The restaurant specializes in Mediterranean and Turkish staples like lamb and beef kebabs, rice plates, and house-made tzatziki sauce. Sweet treats include baklava, and new dishes are constantly in development, including traditional Turkish pizza, which Bozkurt says will be added to the menu soon.
Cafe manager Rosalie Holloway, who’s worked with Bozkurt for four years, said customers are especially fond of the lamb shank and a dish called “Adana kebab,” which packs a flavorful punch.
“Our customers are really diverse — Latin American, Asian, American — everybody seems to love the food,” Holloway said. “And we’re proud of that.”
Bozkurt attributes the restaurant’s success to its authenticity. From the herbs sourced from Mediterranean markets in Austin to Turkish teas, sodas, and yogurt drinks, everything is fresh and made with care. The restaurant even bakes its own bread daily.
“Lamb is a big part of our cuisine — it’s healthier and tastier,” Bozkurt said. “That’s what sets Turkish food apart from typical American meals like burgers and fries.”
Despite occasional supply chain challenges, especially when sourcing herbs, the team continues to push forward. “Sometimes it’s hard to get ingredients, but we go to Austin when we need to,” Bozkurt said.
Cafe Baklava Doner Kebab is open seven days a week — Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Sundays until 8 p.m. Customers can dine in or order via Uber Eats and DoorDash.
They are located at 701 W Elms Rd Ste #200, Killeen, TX, 76542.
The restaurant is active on social media and posts daily specials on Facebook and Instagram. Bozkurt said he is committed to being present every day to ensure quality and customer satisfaction.
“I want our customers to feel like they know me,” he said. “Many even call my name to check if I’m here — that means a lot.”
Holloway encouraged the community to continue supporting small businesses like theirs.
“If you’ve tried our food, tell your friends,” she said. “We’re here, and we’re waiting for you.”