Franchising

Panini Kabob opens 27th location, plans expansion

Photo: Panini Kabob Grill

September 25, 2025

Panini Kabob Grill, a Mediterranean scratch kitchen chain, has opened its 27th location at the Mershops North County Mall, marking a continued expansion across Southern California.

The restaurant is located at 200 E. Via Rancho Parkway in Escondido. The opening is part of the company's plan to add 12 locations across California, Nevada, and Arizona by the end of 2026.

Mike Rafipoor, founder and CEO of Panini Kabob Grill, said the Escondido restaurant is a key part of the company's growth strategy.

"We're excited to join the Escondido community and bring our fresh, healthy Mediterranean dishes to a new part of San Diego County," Rafipoor said in a company press release. "As we expand into new regions, our focus remains on thoughtful, sustainable growth."

Panini Kabob Grill, which first opened in 1977, serves charbroiled kabobs, paninis and pastas, with options like antibiotic-free and hormone-free chicken and grass-fed beef. The company emphasizes that nothing on its menu is pre-sliced, frozen, or prepared off-site.

The chain offers a variety of dishes, including Kabob Entrées starting at $18.99 and Ka-Boxes starting at $9.99, which are designed for to-go dining. Family combo meals are also available.