New Aliso Viejo Location Now Open Panini Kabob Grill, a Southern California-based Mediterranean restaurant, has opened a new location at 6811 Aliso Creek Road in Aliso Viejo, marking the chain's return to the downtown area. A second location is slated to open mid-summer at Hollywood Park (1261 S. District Drive) in Inglewood, positioned near SoFi Stadium and YouTube Theater.

Three New Menu Items Launch The expansion is accompanied by three new panini offerings: a Wild Caught Solid White Tuna Panini (also available on salad), a Turkey Pesto Panini made with oven-roasted, antibiotic-free turkey breast, and a Turkey Avocado Panini. All items align with the chain's commitment to scratch-kitchen preparation.

Operational Standards Every dish is prepared to order using daily-delivered, locally sourced produce and antibiotic- and hormone-free meats. No ingredients are pre-sliced, frozen, or prepared off-site. The menu also includes signature charbroiled kabobs—chicken, beef koobideh, fresh Atlantic salmon, flat iron steak, jumbo shrimp, tofu, and grass-fed lamb—alongside made-to-order pastas, wraps, salads, soups, and vegetarian and vegan options.

Aggressive Growth Plan CEO Mike Rafipoor stated: "We are truly excited to bring our fresh Mediterranean flavors to these widely differing California locations as Panini Kabob Grill continues to grow; the appeal of good food is truly universal. Our team's passion for Mediterranean cuisine and commitment to quality, freshness, and healthy eating is unmatched, as are our generous portions and affordable prices." The chain, founded in 1997, plans up to nine openings in 2026 across California (Wilshire and Valencia), Las Vegas (Fashion Show Mall), and additional locations in Arizona and California in 2027.

Why It Matters

Panini Kabob Grill's expansion reflects sustained operator confidence in the Mediterranean casual-dining segment and scratch-kitchen positioning as differentiation in a crowded fast-casual market. The chain's emphasis on daily ingredient sourcing and in-house preparation appeals to health-conscious consumers and operators seeking margin control through quality standardization.

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Written by FBM Publications Editors