Having grown up in the kebab industry five brothers, Annass, Ahmad, Malik, Abdul-Karim and Omar, watched their father bring a string of kebab shops to life, cooking up a storm and inspiring them to eventually follow in his footsteps.
In 2023, one of the brothers took a leap of faith and opened the first Merk’s Grill at Clovelly Park at just 20 years old. Now, with the support of his brothers and parents, the family is preparing to open its second location in Morphett Vale.
“While one of the brothers founded the business, this journey truly wouldn’t have been possible without our mum and dad, who constantly encouraged us, believed in us, and gave us the love, care and motivation to keep pushing forward,” Ahmad said.
“Every member of the family has played a role in shaping what Merk’s Grill has become and what is coming ahead.”
Since opening the original Merk’s Grill, the family has continued to grow the business, launching Dessert by Merk’s next door and taking its food on the road with a Merk’s Grill food truck.
The truck now caters at festivals, community events and private functions, while the new Morphett Vale restaurant will bring the family’s kebabs, AB packs, burgers and loaded fries to Adelaide’s south.
“As a family, we share a long-term vision of continuing to grow while staying true to the values that have shaped us from the beginning, hard work, quality, family and genuine hospitality,” Ahmad said.
The new venue will sit between a traditional takeaway shop and a relaxed dine-in restaurant, with a family-friendly atmosphere and a menu built around generous servings.
Customers can expect authentic Turkish-style doner kebabs, burgers, AB packs, loaded fries, fish and chips, homemade chicken schnitzels and Nashville chicken specials.
For the family, the purpose of Merk’s Grill has always been about more than serving food.
“We wanted to create a welcoming place for everyone, whether it’s families, friends, students or tradies, where people can enjoy generous portions, great service and a relaxed atmosphere,” Ahmad said.
The Merk’s name comes from the family’s surname, Merkabi, reflecting the family values and shared history behind the growing business.
Merk’s Grill Morphett Vale will celebrate its grand opening on Saturday, August 1 (today) from 12pm until late, with ten percent off all day, free sweets and a car show.
Merks Grill Morphett Vale
When: Monday to Sunday from 11am–9pm, with Tuesdays closed.
Where: 212 Main South Road, Morphett Vale
For more info, click here.
