Panda Express

Panda Express originated from the vision of Andrew Cherng, who, after opening the successful Panda Inn full-service restaurant in Pasadena, California, with his father, Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, in 1973, identified an opportunity in the fast-casual dining sector. The first Panda Express location opened in 1983 in the Glendale Galleria mall in Glendale, California. The concept was designed to offer flavorful, Americanized Chinese dishes in a quicker, more accessible format than traditional sit-down restaurants, catering to the bustling environments of food courts. This initial success laid the groundwork for rapid expansion throughout the 1980s and 1990s. The menu at Panda Express is renowned for its distinctive blend of traditional Chinese cooking techniques adapted to American tastes. Key offerings include its most popular dish, Orange Chicken, a sweet and spicy crispy chicken, and other favorites such as Beijing Beef, Broccoli Beef, Kung Pao Chicken, and SweetFire Chicken Breast. The chain emphasizes fresh ingredients, often prepared in a wok throughout the day. Customers typically choose a base (rice or noodles) and then select entrées from a steam table, allowing for customization and quick service. Panda Express has also introduced 'Wok Smart' options, featuring lighter, vegetable-heavy dishes, aligning with evolving consumer preferences for healthier choices. Over the decades, Panda Express has experienced significant growth, becoming the largest family-owned and operated Asian restaurant chain in the United States. Its presence extends beyond mall food courts to include airports, universities, casinos, military bases, and standalone drive-thru locations across the U.S., Canada, Mexico, and other international markets. The company's success is attributed not only to its popular menu but also to its focus on operational efficiency, customer service, and strong corporate values, including its philanthropic arm, Panda Cares, which supports children's health and education. Panda Express continues to innovate, regularly introducing new menu items and adapting its service models to maintain its competitive edge in the fast-casual dining landscape.