Karlsruhe is thrilled: The octopus kebab provides a taste explosion!

Karlsruhe is thrilled: The octopus kebab provides a taste explosion!

A new fast food trend is causing a stir in Karlsruhe: the octopus kebab from the Romanian chain Pescobar. This special variant of the traditional kebab has been available since the beginning of November 2023 and has already established itself as a hit. The branches sell between 300 and 400 copies every day, which underlines the popularity and curiosity about this creative dish. The octopus used in this kebab comes from Mauritania, Morocco and Senegal and is served after marinating and spit-roasting, similar to a classic kebab.

The ingredients also have a Mediterranean touch: fresh lettuce, radishes, cucumbers and a delicious aioli are served together in flatbread. The price for this unusual snack is 14 euros. Pescobar founder Paul Nicolau describes the octopus kebab as “fresher, healthier and yet not completely foreign,” which is sure to whet the appetite of many. The taste is more reminiscent of the Mediterranean than the Bosphorus - a welcome change for all kebab lovers.

A look behind the scenes of the octopus

Octopuses belong to the molluscs of the order Octopoda, which includes around 300 species. They are known for their remarkable intelligence and ability to change shape to slip through narrow crevices or swim at lightning speed. Additionally, octopuses are part of a broader nutritional tradition in various cultures, particularly in the Mediterranean and Asia, where they are valued as a delicacy. Interest in octopuses ranges from culinary applications to biological research that provides insights into intelligence and behavior.

In addition to having a complex physiology, octopuses also possess a sophisticated nervous system with over 500 million neurons, allowing them to move their tentacles independently. These properties are one reason why their use in gastronomy has recently been increasingly discussed from ethical and health perspectives. Some animal rights activists express concerns about the animals' special intelligence and call for more awareness and sensitivity when dealing with them.

Mixed reactions and the future of the octopus kebab

The introduction of the octopus kebab in Germany has not been without controversy. Reactions are mixed: while many celebrate the new taste, there are also critical voices who point out the ethical questions surrounding the consumption of these intelligent animals. However, the success of the Pescobar branch in Karlsruhe could indicate that interest in innovative and healthy fast food alternatives is high.

The question remains whether this trend will take root in Germany. The founders of Pescobar have already gained a foothold in London with their concept and are now trying to conquer the German market as well. In addition to the octopus kebab, the branches also offer wraps and hot dogs with tentacles, which further enriches the range.

Whether the octopus kebab is a temporary hype or establishes itself in the long term remains to be seen. One thing is certain, however: In Karlsruhe, the snack known simply as “döner” with a special twist could find its place - and trigger a culinary discussion that goes far beyond the narrow edge of the beloved fast food specialty.