24 Photos
ZipPicks Awards
Best Outdoor Dining Mediterranean in Pasadena
Best Greek in Pasadena
Best Mediterranean in Pasadena
Master Critic Review
Panini Kabob Grill
7.5
A SoCal Mediterranean chain that hangs its hat on open-flame charbroiling—every protein marinated in-house and cooked to order with antibiotic-free chicken and Cedar River Farms beef. The fast-casual format works well for families wanting scratch-made kabobs and sides without a long sit-down commitment. Reviews run polarized at this Paseo location, so stick to the core kabob plates where the grill technique delivers the most reliable results.
Must-Try Dishes:
Charbroiled Chicken Kabob Entrée, Hummus, Beef Koobideh Kabob Entrée
Scores:
Value: 7.5
Service: 7.5
Consistency: 7
Food Quality: 7.5
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Every protein is marinated in-house and charbroiled over an open flame to order, using only antibiotic-free chicken and Cedar River Farms beef.
Who should go: Health-conscious families wanting scratch-made Mediterranean without the wait
When to visit: Weekday lunch to skip The Paseo's weekend crowds
What to order: Build around a chicken or steak kabob plate with rice, add hummus and pita to share, and save room — portions regularly produce next-day leftovers.
Insider tip: Grab a table on the Paseo patio — it's one of the better outdoor dining setups on Colorado Blvd.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Free subterranean parking at The Paseo garage for the first 90 minutes—more than enough for a meal. Street metered parking also available on Colorado Blvd.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Strong selection—dedicated vegetarian entrees including Falafel Platter, Vegetable Kabob, Tofu Kabob, Vegetable Linguine, plus Caprese and Tofu Pesto paninis. Menu uses a leaf icon to mark vegetarian items.
Vegan options: Falafel is explicitly labeled vegan on the menu. Tofu Kabob and Vegetable Kabob platters can work vegan. Hummus is available as an appetizer.
Gluten-free options: Menu states pita can be substituted for fresh sliced cucumbers as a gluten-free option. A nutrition calculator on their website lets you filter by Big 9 allergens including wheat.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for a casual first meetup than a romantic dinner. It's counter-service in an open shopping village setting, so the vibe is relaxed and low-pressure rather than intimate. The outdoor patio at The Paseo is pleasant for a daytime or early evening get-together where conversation flows easily, but if you're looking for candlelit ambiance, this isn't it. Great choice if you both want to keep things laid-back and grab a bite while exploring downtown Pasadena.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Yes — no reservations are needed or accepted. This is counter-service with open seating, so you order at the register and grab any available table. During peak lunch hours and evenings when events are happening at the nearby Civic Auditorium, it can get busy, but turnover is fast. You'll rarely have trouble finding a spot in the spacious 6,600-square-foot dining area or on the patio.
Is it kid-friendly? Yes — this is a great family spot. The casual counter-service format means no pressure to keep kids seated through a formal meal. High chairs are available, and while there isn't a dedicated kids menu, the made-to-order kabobs, rice plates, and simple grilled chicken options are easy wins for younger eaters. The noise level is relaxed enough that kids won't be an issue. The outdoor patio gives families extra breathing room.
Is it good for groups? Yes — the spacious layout handles groups well. The 6,600-square-foot space has plenty of indoor tables plus a generous outdoor patio, so parties of 6-8 can easily find seating together. No reservation needed — just walk in and push tables together. The family-style kabob platters are ideal for sharing. For very large gatherings, they also offer catering. No private dining room, but the open layout doesn't feel cramped.
Is there outdoor seating? Yes — a generous patio within The Paseo's open-air shopping village. The setting is pleasant with a courtyard feel surrounded by the retail complex. Seating accommodates a good number of diners. Whether heating or cover is provided is not confirmed online — call (626) 657-3400 to check on specifics. Southern California weather makes it usable most of the year. Note: some lighting fixtures cast a reddish hue on the patio in the evening.
Best For
Hours
Monday10am - 9pm
Tuesday10am - 9pm
Wednesday10am - 9pm
Thursday10am - 9pm
Friday10am - 9pm
Saturday10am - 9pm
Sunday10am - 9pm