SAN JOSE — State health authorities are investigating an E. coli outbreak linked to The Kebab Shop restaurant chain, which operates several dining establishments in the Bay Area.
The California Public Health Department has warned consumers to be aware of E. coli tied to seasoned ground beef kebabs known as beef kofta that are served at these eateries.
This E. coli strain can produce a Shiga toxin. Those who are infected can suffer symptoms that include diarrhea that is often bloody, vomiting and abdominal cramps, according to health authorities.
“The Kebab Shop is fully cooperating with public health officials and voluntarily paused sales of grilled beef kofta at all locations on May 18,” the state agency reported.
As of May 19, 2026, nine California residents were infected with the outbreak strain in question. Illness onset dates range from March 27 through April 30, 2026.
No deaths have been reported.
The Kebab Shop has nine Bay Area locations, according to the chain’s website.
— San Jose, 1078 East Brokaw Road.
— San Jose, 5110 Cherry Ave.
— Fremont: 43834 Pacific Commons Blvd.
— Fremont: 39350 Paseo Padre Parkway.
— Pleasanton: 4247 Rosewood Drive.
— Santa Clara: 3938 Rivermark Plaza.
— Concord: 1110 Concord Ave.
— San Ramon: 3141 Crow Canyon Place.
— Walnut Creek: 2359 Oak Grove Road.
Most people recover within a week. Some victims, however, may develop severe diseases that require hospital care, health officials stated.
“The risk of exposure to this product is not ongoing at this time,” the California health agency stated. “While the investigation is ongoing, current information suggests the implicated beef product was distributed only to The Kebab Shop.”
