386

600 Kailua Rd

Kailua , HI 96734



(808) 261-4291

Okay I am seriously obsessed with Paniolos. I randomly stumbled upon this place once before heading to Lanikai and since then I have these FREQUENT random cravings for the place that I can not ever fight! And I think it must've been about two years now and I'm still not tired of it lol! I totally recommend to do the burrito bowl. You can choose your starch, your meat, your salsa and veggies. *If you are a meat eater I totally recommend to do the grilled steak. It is so juicy and and packed with flavor and I must say they give a pretty hefty amount. After that I kind of just tell them to topple everything else on top (fresh lettuce, cheese, sour cream, onions, jalapeños, cilantro, guac). And what I really love the most about this place, is that their veggies are ALWAYS crisp and fresh!! *Also, try their (homemade?) chips with your bowl if you get one. I scoop up my guac and salsa and sour cream and UGH it is to die for (totally making myself hungry now, hahaha). I wouldn't know if this is considered to be true "Mexican" food, but if you're craving something of that sort and you're in the area please give this place a try. It really is the bomb-dot-com and I think everyone should know about it!

Paniolos is our go-to place for quick, easy, delicious and relatively healthy bowls and burritos. It is Chipotle-style, make your own tacos / burritos / bowls. Pick your style of rice and beans, and then your meat. Their Paniolos steak (shredded flavored steak) is excellent! Then load up toppings, and you're set. It's a simple premise, but it is very well executed here and it is very fast!

Haven't been to Paniolos in over a year but after having Chipotle and some other classic Tex-Mex multiple times on the mainland... Paniolos just can't compete! There's not a lot of Tex-Mex in Hawaii -- I will say that. However, it doesn't justify the plain and simple fact that Paniolos is just not that great. The cilantro rice is tasty when cooked nicely but most times, I get rice that is hard and sticks together in large, dry clumps. I used to get chicken at any Tex-Mex place I went to but now my go-to meat is steak. The grilled steak at Paniolos is okay. My steak was a little tough and some pieces were too fatty so I couldn't chew the whole thing. The "mild" salsa consists of tomatoes and onions, probably attempting to resemble a pico del Gallo. For some reason, it tastes more like lomi salmon to me... which is extremely strange in a Tex-Mex bowl. Prices are comparable to other plate-lunch places nearby so honestly, unless you're REALLY craving Tex-Mex, I'd suggest going elsewhere and holding off your Tex-Mex craving until you get to the mainland (or anywhere else).

On a random afternoon we were headed to Kailua and wanted something quick but not fast food. So glad we found the new chipotle this hidden gem was actually better than the original! I had the steak bowl with all the veggies I wanted some chips and guacamole on the side of course! And man oh man so glad I got the chips they were yummy with the guac!! Once we got there the line started to built up so we got there just in time and with a speedy service! They definitely have great portions I was full and satisfied. The only thing I will say is I mean one it's Hawaii and also the whole 100% grass feed and even organic I guess can make the price go up but it was sure pricey for just the two of us and even sharing one drink. The only down side but the quality of the food my god everything down to the rice was flavorful and wishing I can go back for more! If you're looking for a good meal definitely check this place out and give it a try !

Reminiscent of Chipotle in California-simple menu where u order step-by-step: Choose from burrito, bowl, or 3tacos, then u choose ur starch, beans, and veggies. I wish i took a pic of the food, but we were too hunggggrrryy. Choices include: cilantro lime white/brown rice, lettuce, steak, chicken, paniolo steak (shredded marinated beef).

If you're craving Chipotle, Qdoba, Pancheros, etc. this is the best the island has to offer similar to those mainland fast-casual chains. Decent and healthy - I opted for the chicken bowl and added guac (extra, obviously).

Now that I'm m on the Keto Program, I stopped in this establishment again to grab a bite. It still tastes amazing and I still highly recommend the Paniolos style steak. When ever I make it to this side of the island I make it my business to stop here.

I was thinking about eating Aloha salads right next door when I stopped into this place. I've been looking for a good burrito place on the island similar to a Chipotle or Qdoba, I think this place is the best option. All of the toppings were good, I went with a veggie bowl, and left very satisfied. They have several ways you can order your entree, but was ultimately good and plentiful for any choice.

This is the Hawaiian version of Chipotle (and so much better I must say!) Portion sizes are good and comparable to Chipotle. Seating can be tight inside, with some seating outside, but can get pretty busy! I love that the ingredients are always very fresh as they source most, if not all, of them locally (which is why it can be seen as a bit expensive, but definitely worth it). I always get the bowl with tofu as my protein, it has good flavor and never disappoints. Guacamole is $2 extra, I always get it because I love guac, but not completely necessary. Definitely worth a visit if you are out in Kailua (perfect for a mid-day lunch break from the beach).

To update from my last review here a year ago I have to say they have made great changes. The servers are all friendly and welcome every customer that enters the cozy establishment. They have tables and seating for small parties indoors and outdoors if you want to eat there. Most people order and take out. There's a public restroom close by at the corner past subway. There's plenty of parking in the lot but it's shared with all the other small restaurants and stores so you might have to make a short walk or wait a min or two for a spot to open up in front of the restaurant. If you've never been here before here's the run down. Choose burrito, bowl or 3 tacos. For burrito or bowl: Choose white rice, brown rice or romaine lettuce. The white and brown rice are perfectly seasoned, and flavored with cilantro and lime. Cool Beans. Choose between black, pinto, or refried. Choose your "protein": veggies, tofu, grilled steak, Paniolos Steak (looks like pulled pork style), or chicken + don't forget!!! Optional but highly recommend: grilled bell peppers and onions Choose toppings: lettuce, cheese, sour cream, corn, mild salsa, medium salsa, hot salsa, lemon slices, onions and last but not least cilantro. (PS. You can pick up to 2 salsas). + $2 to add on Guacamole. I say Treat YoSelf :) If you got a burrito, this is where they attempt to wrap the goodness in a pretty bundle and voila- you now have your new baby. :D Get a fountain drink. (They also offer water cups). There's your typical pop fountain machine and Peaks iced tea on the side. I like to mix half black and half green tea. I know, I know. You're like what? That's weird! But, if you haven't tried it before try it. It's like a whole new tea. High five Paniolos for getting it right! Portion sizes have been consistent between customers and much better than before. They don't skimp on protein anymore. Different workers have given everybody including me a full scoop of protein. It's about $10 for a steak bowl and +$2 for guacamole which I highly recommend! If you don't live on the Windward side but you're craving something Mexican style, fresh, filling, local grown and tasty just try them. (Being on Oahu-its probably the closest you're gonna get to good Mexican food). It's definitely worth the trip if you're on the fence.

I've been searching for decent mexican food on this side of the island. Although it's not the best mexican food I've ever had, it's pretty good and I'd eat there to feed my craving. I had the chicken burrito. It was satisfying. The set up is similar to chipotle but better. The staff was nice and helpful. Being a mexican food snob....I'm happy to gove 5 stars for customer service and quality of food.

We got there at around 7 pm, place was packed and the line was so long. We got a bowl with white rice end the paniolo beef, it was sooo good. The seating area outside is nice too. The reason I am giving them 3 stars and not 5 is because the staff wasn't so nice. I mean granted the place was busy but this is not a reason to be short and have an attitude with the customers

Hawaii's Chipotle knockoff. Like all knockoffs it's not nearly as good as the real thing but it's as close as you'll get to Chipotle in Hawaii.

This is gonna be one of my go to spots when I'm in Kailua. Those that said it was better than chipotle were on point!! Great food for the price and their portions are great. I had a hard time finishing my food. Almost didn't go cuz there was a line but it moves really quick.

Way better than Chipotle. Love coming here anytime I'm in a rush, always fast yet friendly service. Also they provide great vegan options. I always get the marinated tofu and grilled veggies in a bowl and it's amazing!

Recently decided to try something different and ended up going to this Mexican and Hawaiian restaurant Paniolos Hawaii inside the Kailua Shopping Plaza. Here's how the process works for ordering (and you get to customize what you need or want). - Choose a burrito, bowl or 3 tacos. - For burrito or bowl: White rice, brown rice or romaine lettuce. - Beans: Black, pinto, or refried. - Protein: Veggies, tofu, grilled steak, Paniolos Steak, or chicken - Also available are grilled bell peppers and onions - Toppings: Lettuce, cheese, sour cream, corn, mild salsa, medium salsa, hot salsa, lemon slices, onions and last but not least cilantro. Service was alright overall and the portions were decent as well. Not the cheapest option though.

My heart.... finally after years of wanting to try this place, we finally got to go! I'm a BIG fan of Chipotle so after moving back to Hawaii, I was super sad knowing there was no place like it. Like how other reviews said... it's really a Hawaii version of Chipotle. Located in the same shopping area of Lanikai Juice, Times, and morning Brew. Parking can be a bit challenging due to many eateries and crowds but wait patiently. Menu consists of bowls, burritos, and tacos. Prices range from $8 to $10 unless you get extras. Meats are steak, chicken, kalua pig, and for vegans tofu. You have a choice of rice (white or brown lime) and beans (refried or black). They have grilled veggies, romaine lettuce and other toppings such as cilantro, raw onions, lime, and more. You can also get cheese, sour cream, and two choices of salsa. Hands down get the corn! With additional cost, you can pay for extra toppings, veggies, meats and even fresh guacamole. Menu is a little bit confusing to follow however don't be afraid to ask questions. Our group decided to get bowls and burritos. The bowls are pretty packed but sadly the burritos that day were a bit small especially pay the price. Some of our friends regretted getting the burrito because of portion size compared to the bowl. I had a bowl which was not only filling but delicious. I really enjoyed the corn salsa and the chicken which had a good seasoning. The chips were alright. It had a good crunch and had a tinge of lime flavor. So would I come back? Yes if I'm in the area! I didn't see Tabasco sauce so I was a bit bummed. The only thing I was shocked was they were charging $2 for a small dollop of guac. Yikes! I was expecting for them to scoop more especially at that price however looking at the people in front of us we decided to skip the guac. This is probably the closest you'll get to Chipotle right now however it doesn't beat Chipotle.

Probably the worst service I've received on the island in over 6 years of living here. It's a very far cry from Chipotle food was pretty bland and way over priced for what you get! #FirstTimerLastTimer

Just came back from college in the mainland and there's no Chipotle here so this is the closest it gets. Needles to say, it's hella DANK. Quality and fresh ingredients. Little bit on the expensive side, but so is everything else in Hawaii. Come here at least once a week. Good stuff