Panda Express

Panda Express Storefront (48128044623)

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Panda Express at Ala Moana Center

Typical Panda Meal

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Panda Express restaurant Fort Worth, TX

Panda Express1

Panda Express is an American fast food restaurant chain that specializes in American Chinese cuisine. It is the largest Asian segment restaurant chain in the United States, where it was founded and is mainly located. The chain offers a variety of Chinese cuisine dishes, such as orange chicken, beef with broccoli, and chow mein, among others. Panda Express operates over 2,200 locations globally, with the majority situated in the United States. It is headquartered in Rosemead, California.

History

Panda Express was established in 1983 by Andrew Cherng, his father, Master Chef Ming Tsai Cherng, and his wife, Peggy Cherng. The first location was opened in the Glendale Galleria in Glendale, California. The Cherngs also own and operate Panda Inn, a sit-down restaurant concept that predates Panda Express and served as the inspiration for the fast-food version of the business.

The chain has expanded rapidly since its inception, capitalizing on the growing popularity of quick-service restaurants and the increasing interest in Chinese cuisine in the United States. Unlike many fast-food chains, Panda Express has not adopted a franchise model and is owned and operated by the Cherng family's company, Panda Restaurant Group.

Menu

Panda Express's menu is inspired by traditional Chinese cuisine but has been adapted for the American palate. Some of its signature dishes include Orange Chicken, Sweet Fire Chicken Breast, Beijing Beef, and Kung Pao Chicken. The menu also features a variety of side dishes, including fried rice, steamed rice, chow mein, and super greens. In addition to its standard menu, Panda Express regularly introduces limited-time offerings and has made efforts to include more health-conscious options, such as the Wok Smart selection, which highlights dishes with 300 calories or less and at least 8 grams of protein.

Operations

Panda Express restaurants are primarily located in shopping mall food courts, but the chain has also expanded into other formats, including stand-alone restaurants, airports, military bases, universities, and other venues. The company has also pursued international expansion, with locations in Canada, the United Kingdom, Guatemala, Japan, Mexico, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.

Panda Express is known for its commitment to innovation and quality. It has a dedicated Innovation Kitchen in Pasadena, California, where new dishes are developed and tested. The restaurant chain also places a strong emphasis on customer service and community involvement, supporting various charitable causes through its Panda Cares foundation.

Cultural Impact

Panda Express has played a significant role in popularizing American Chinese cuisine across the United States and internationally. Its success has contributed to a broader acceptance and appreciation of Chinese-inspired food in the fast-food industry. The brand has also been involved in cultural discussions and initiatives aimed at promoting diversity and understanding of Asian cultures.

Criticism and Controversy

Like many fast-food chains, Panda Express has faced criticism related to health concerns, including the high calorie and sodium content of some of its dishes. The company has responded by introducing more nutritious options and providing nutritional information for its menu items.

See Also

• Fast food in the United States
• Chinese cuisine
• List of Chinese restaurants

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