Roberto S.
Yelp
I finally made it to the original Panini Kabob Grill in Corona Del Mar, and wow, what a treat! I had no idea this was where it all started, but I've been hooked on their fabulous Mediterranean-style food since the Beverly Hills location days. Over the years, I've eaten at PKG spots in DTLA, Glendale, Brea, Irvine, Anaheim, Santa Ana, Long Beach--and now, the OG! Hands down, they're as good as it gets for a restaurant franchise. In my opinion, PKG is the most consistent franchise I've ever encountered. I used to feel that way about Cheesecake Factory years ago, but now I'm at a PKG location at least four times a month--and it's easy to see why.
Finding quality, authentic, fresh, delicious, and healthy food at their price point is a unicorn in today's world. I've racked my brain, but honestly, no one matches PKG's consistency across the board. Maybe it's their playbook--flawless food paired with incredible people. From my early days in Beverly Hills to this latest visit, every staff member I've met has been kind, attentive, and genuinely invested in making your meal perfect. The food always arrives hot, fresh, and ready to impress. It's like a well-oiled machine, but with way more soul.
On this visit, we ordered three standout dishes: the Caprese, Flat Iron Steak, and Koobideh Beef Plate. Each one was a reminder of why I'm a PKG lifer.
The Caprese was a vibrant ode to simplicity--juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes layered with creamy mozzarella and fragrant basil, finished with a balsamic glaze that tied it all together. Every bite was a burst of freshness, like summer on a plate.
The Flat Iron Steak was a carnivore's dream. Tender, perfectly seasoned, and grilled to juicy perfection, it practically melted in my mouth. The char added a smoky depth that made each slice irresistible.
And the Koobideh Beef Plate? Pure comfort. The beef was succulent and flavorful, with that signature PKG spice blend that's savory without overwhelming. Paired with fluffy basmati rice, grilled veggies, and Mediterranean Salad. it's a plate that hits all the right notes--hearty, comforting, and oh-so-satisfying.
Over the years, I've also loved their Chicken Kabob (always tender and smoky), Fresh Atlantic Salmon Kabob (light, flaky, and perfectly grilled), Wild Caught Shrimp Kabob (plump and bursting with flavor), and their Lentil Soup--rich, earthy, and soul-warming. For dessert, the Tiramisu and Bread Pudding are sweet, indulgent endings that never disappoint. Honestly, you can't go wrong with anything on the menu.
Service at Corona Del Mar was, as always, top-notch. Martin and Ronolfo (or Ronald--hope I got that right!) took care of us like family. I asked Ronolfo how long the location has been around, and he said over 20 years--then dropped that he's been working there for 20 years himself! That kind of loyalty is incredible and speaks volumes about PKG's commitment to its team and its customers. It's not just a job for these folks; it's a passion, and it shows.
I've always wondered why more restaurants don't follow PKG's lead. The food is stellar, the service is warm, and the value is unbeatable. It's tough to replicate that magic, but PKG has it mastered. They're already one of my all-time favorite restaurants, and I can see them growing even more in the years ahead--I'll be cheering them on every step of the way. If you haven't been, start with the original in Corona Del Mar. It's where the magic began, and it's still shining bright. Can't wait for my next visit!