Tucked away in College Plaza, Son’s Doner Kebab might not be the biggest restaurant in Statesboro, but it’s certainly one of the most beloved. With a smile as warm as the kebabs he serves, owner Son Nguyen has built more than just a quick-stop eatery.
A Journey Across Continents
Born in Vietnam, Nguyen later moved to Germany, where he worked hard to establish himself in the restaurant industry. There, he discovered doner kebabs—a street food staple that would go on to define his culinary journey.
“I learned to make kebabs in Germany for my family and friends. I tried a doner kebab in Germany for the first time, and from there I wanted to make them myself as a goal in life. I had just become an adult when I tried a doner kebab. I loved it!” Nguyen says.
For two decades, he ran a restaurant in Germany before making his way to the United States in 2010. But it wasn’t until his daughter, a Georgia Southern University student, suggested opening a doner kebab shop in Statesboro that Nguyen found his next adventure.
Bringing Doner Kebabs to the Boro
When Nguyen first arrived in Statesboro 11 years ago, the community welcomed him with open arms. He saw an opportunity to introduce a dish that was missing from the local food scene—something he knew would resonate with students and locals alike.
“The community is absolutely amazing. They brought a lot of support to my restaurant and welcomed me with open arms. They are friendly and fun which makes my restaurant friendly and fun for all ages,” Nguyen says.
His menu features several variations of the doner kebab, but his personal go-to?
“The #3 is my favorite. This item is the original German Doner Kebab made on white German bread with beef and lamb. I like to make it all vegetables and top it off with my signature garlic yogurt sauce. I recommend this item to everyone who wants a taste of Germany,” he says.
More Than Just a Meal
For Nguyen, food is more than sustenance—it’s a way to connect cultures.
“‘Connecting Cuisine,’ is not only an opportunity to introduce and promote the culinary culture of the countries, but also an opportunity to promote and honor the cultural beauty of Germany and Vietnam. I wanted to promote cultural diplomacy, enhance the national image of Germany and further expand and promote the spirit of our food,” he says.
While Nguyen's passion is clear, running the restaurant hasn’t been without its challenges.
“To name a few, college students are a big influence on my restaurant. When they leave, days become slow, and sales are diminished. Inflation has also slowed my store down with prices rising. I can’t raise the price because it becomes unaffordable for the college students and the community,” he says.
Still, Nguyen remains dedicated to his mission: “If you want to open a restaurant, you must be prepared for the difficulty. It is not easy to maintain a restaurant, but you must never give up. If you keep your head in the game, you will succeed. I follow three helpful tips: quality products, affordable service, and customer care.”
A Taste of Home, A Taste of the Future
Son’s Doner Kebab has become a staple in the Statesboro food scene, drawing customers from across Georgia. Some have even asked him to expand into their counties.
“The community absolutely loves my Doner Kebabs! People from all around Georgia come to Statesboro just to try my Kebabs. I have even been asked multiple times to open in their counties. I cannot remember the last time I had a bad review,” he says.
For those unfamiliar with doner kebabs, Nguyen shares a little insider knowledge: “Kebab meat is richer than most meats. It is hard to cook and master. Kebab meat is cooked on a Kebab rotating machine. It is then sliced with a Kebab electric knife. Thin pieces are served with vegetables and a signature sauce made by me.”
Looking ahead, Nguyen has big dreams—dreams that extend beyond College Plaza.
“In the future I would love to be the owner of more locations in multiple countries. I’d like to start here in America because I want all of America to know about the Doner Kebab. Then I want my Kebabs to be known worldwide. It’s a big dream, but doesn’t everyone want to dream big?” he says.
For now, Nguyen is focused on what he loves most—serving the people of Statesboro.
“I want to thank this community, the teachers, and students for giving me an opportunity to express my voice via the food I create. Doner Kebab creation is a passion of mine, and I want to continue feeding all of the people of Statesboro and receiving support from all my customers,” he says.
Next time you’re in College Plaza, follow the aroma of sizzling meat and warm bread. Chances are, you’ll find Son Nguyen behind the counter—smiling, chatting, and sharing a piece of his journey with every plate he serves.
Son’s Doner Kebab is located in College Plaza at 715 Northside Drive E, Statesboro, GA. The restaurant is open Monday through Saturday from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m.
