The story behind Kabob Grill N Go in phoenix

Former Palm Desert, California, residents Tony Chilingaryan and his wife, Hasmik, moved to Phoenix and opened Kabob Grill N’ Go on 16th Street just before the pandemic hit in 2020. The timing was tough, but the couple remained hopeful and built their business, one kabob at a time. The hard work paid off. In 2022, The New York Times named Kabob Grill N’ Go one of the 50 best restaurants in America, and in 2024, Food Network’s Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives stopped by for a visit. Chilingaryan, whose vibrant personality exudes joy, also credits his wife and loyal staff for the eatery’s success.

What influences your food? My parents are from Persia. When I was a kid, I would watch my grandmother, my father, my mother and even my aunt cook, and I started cooking at the age of 7. I practiced, little by little, and I grew a big, beautiful passion for cooking. It was just natural to me. My wife is Armenian, and I’m Persian, born in Los Angeles, but I traveled to different parts of the world and lived in the Yucatán for nine years. Not only is the culture there beautiful, but the food is unbelievable.

March 9, 2025 | 6:52 am