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Brazilian

Panelas Brazil Cuisine

Quick, flavorful lunch or casual takeout.

Closed now $$ Local FavoriteCasual VibesQuick Bite
6.6/10
Great Scored by Xochitl Ramos · How we score
№ 01 · The Brief

South Bay's Counter Order for Brazilian Sandwiches

Tucked into a quiet stretch of Redondo Beach, Panelas Brazil Cuisine brings the flavors of Brazil to the South Bay in a warm, unassuming setting that feels like a neighborhood secret. Just minutes from the beach, this counter-service spot has built a loyal following for its authentic take on Brazilian sandwiches and empanadas, offering a quick but deeply satisfying meal that stands apart from the area's usual dining options. With a 4.5-star rating from hundreds of reviewers, it's clear that word has spread about this South Bay gem.

The menu centers on hearty Brazilian sandwiches piled high with quality ingredients, alongside a rotating selection of empanadas that showcase both classic and creative fillings. Diners can expect flavorful proteins, melted cheeses, and fresh accompaniments that come together in every bite, all served on freshly baked bread. First-timers often start with a few empanadas to sample the variety before committing to a full sandwich, while regulars know exactly which combination hits the spot every time. Portions are generous, making the value at this price point hard to beat.

Inside, the atmosphere is casual and unpretentious, with simple seating that keeps the focus on the food rather than elaborate decor. The space has a laid-back, counter-service energy, perfect for a quick lunch or an easy dinner without pretense. It's the kind of spot where diners can grab a table, unwrap their sandwich, and enjoy a straightforward, satisfying meal in a relaxed setting.

Panelas Brazil Cuisine is an excellent choice for diners seeking a casual, flavorful meal that breaks from the ordinary sandwich shop mold. It works well for a solo lunch, a quick bite with friends, or even takeout to enjoy at the beach nearby. Anyone curious about Brazilian street food or looking for a reliable, affordable meal in Redondo Beach should add this spot to their list.

№ 02 · What to Order

The order, from the record

№ 03 · Insider Tip
!

Order a few different empanada flavors to share before diving into a full sandwich, since portions are generous enough to split.

Xochitl Ramos · Top of Los Angeles
№ 04 · The Verdict

What earns the 6.6

01
Brazilian steak sandwich anchors it

The signature sandwich, piled with protein and melted cheese on fresh bread, is the reason to walk up to this counter in the first place.

02
Coxinha and empanadas reward sampling

The rotating empanada lineup and coxinha give first-timers a low-cost way to taste the range before committing to a full sandwich order.

03
Portions justify the price point

Generous serving sizes at a moderate price make this a dependable counter-service option for a quick Redondo Beach lunch or beach-bound takeout.

How we score

The Insider Score is our own 10-point editorial rating, set by the writer who covers the room. It is never an average of other sites’ stars, and it is never for sale. It weighs three things:

01Track record

How highly a kitchen rates, across how many diners, over how long.

02Consistency

Whether recent diners still agree with the long-term verdict.

03Distinction

What the kitchen does that its category does not.

Panelas Brazil Cuisine earns a 6.6, great on our scale for Brazilian in Los Angeles.
Xochitl Ramos
Xochitl Ramos
Staff Writer

Xochitl Ramos writes the guides for Top of Los Angeles: tacos, birria, mariscos, and the Mexican and Central American kitchens from East LA to Boyle Heights, plus the value and late-night rooms. An East LA native.

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