Did you know that Panda Express serves over 90 million pounds of Orange Chicken annually? This staggering number reflects the brand’s immense popularity and its significant role in American fast food culture.
Founded in 1983 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng, it has grown from a single mall location in Glendale, California, to over 2,300 restaurants worldwide. Specializing in American Chinese cuisine, the brand has become synonymous with quick, flavorful meals that cater to a wide range of tastes.
This comprehensive guide delves into everything Panda Express Menu Prices, from its rich history and diverse menu to ordering options, nutritional information, and more.
A Taste of History: The Panda Express Story
The journey began in 1973 when Andrew Cherng and his father, Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, opened Panda Inn in Pasadena, California. Their vision was to introduce a more diverse Chinese cuisine to the American palate. A decade later, in 1983, the first Panda Express opened at the Glendale Galleria mall, marking the birth of what would become a fast-food empire.
Peggy Cherng, with her background in engineering, played a pivotal role in streamlining operations and implementing systems that allowed for rapid expansion. Today, Panda Express remains a family-owned business, emphasizing quality, innovation, and community involvement.
Decoding the Panda Express Menu: What to Order and Why
Your Comprehensive Panda Express Menu Breakdown
Panda Express Menu With price offers a variety of options to suit every appetite:
- Entrées: Orange Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli Beef, Beijing Beef, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Mushroom Chicken, SweetFire Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak, String Bean Chicken Breast.
- Sides: Fried Rice, Chow Mein, Super Greens, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice.
- Appetizers: Chicken Egg Roll, Veggie Spring Roll, Cream Cheese Rangoon.
- Drinks: Soft drinks, teas, lemonades, bottled water.
- Desserts: Fortune Cookie.
- Family Meals & Catering: Options for larger groups, including customizable meal combinations.
Signature Sensations: The Must-Try Entrées
- Orange Chicken: This iconic dish features crispy chicken bites tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce. It’s the most popular item on the menu, beloved for its bold flavor and satisfying crunch.
- Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy stir-fry with chicken, peanuts, vegetables, and chili peppers, offering a delightful balance of heat and savory flavors.
- Broccoli Beef: Tender beef slices paired with fresh broccoli florets in a savory ginger soy sauce, providing a lighter yet flavorful option.
- Honey Walnut Shrimp: Crispy shrimp coated in a honey sauce and topped with glazed walnuts, delivering a sweet and nutty taste experience.
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: Marinated grilled chicken slices drizzled with teriyaki sauce, offering a smoky and savory profile.
Perfect Pairings: Sides and Appetizers That Complete Your Meal
- Fried Rice: A classic side with scrambled eggs, peas, carrots, and green onions, all stir-fried with soy sauce.
- Chow Mein: Stir-fried wheat noodles with cabbage, celery, and onions, providing a hearty accompaniment.
- Super Greens: A healthy mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage, lightly seasoned and steamed.
- Chicken Egg Roll: A crispy wrapper filled with a savory mix of chicken and vegetables.
- Veggie Spring Roll: A vegetarian option featuring a crunchy exterior and flavorful vegetable filling.
- Cream Cheese Rangoon: A creamy and crispy delight, combining cream cheese and green onions in a wonton wrapper.
Quenching Your Thirst and Sweet Endings
Panda Express offers a variety of beverages, including soft drinks, teas, and lemonades, to complement your meal. Don’t forget the classic Fortune Cookie for a sweet finish and a fun message.
Smart Ordering: Panda Bowls, Plates, and Customization Secrets
- Panda Bowl: One entrée and one side—a perfect option for a quick, satisfying meal.
- Panda Plate: Two entrées and one side, ideal for those wanting variety.
- Bigger Plate: Three entrées and one side, great for hearty appetites or sharing.
Customize your meal by mixing and matching entrées and sides to suit your taste and dietary preferences.
Panda Express Menu With Prices
Best Sellers Items
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Plate | Most ordered on Grubhub | $12.50+ |
Bigger Plate | Most ordered on Grubhub | $14.30+ |
Bowl
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Plate | Most ordered on Grubhub | $12.50+ |
Bigger Plate | Most ordered on Grubhub | $14.30+ |
Bowl | Any 1 Side & 1 Entree | $10.70+ |
Panda Cub Meals
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Orange Chicken Panda Cub Meal™ | White Rice, Super Greens, Orange Chicken, Fruit Side & Bottled Water or Kid’s Juice | $8.65+ |
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Panda Cub Meal™ | Chow Mein, Super Greens, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Fruit Side & Bottled Water or Kid’s Juice | $8.65+ |
Broccoli Beef Panda Cub Meal™ | White Rice, Super Greens, Broccoli Beef, Fruit Side & Bottled Water or Kid’s Juice | $8.65+ |
Build Your Own Panda Cub Meal™ | 1 Jr. Side, 1 Jr. Entrée, Fruit Side & Bottled Water or Kid’s Juice | $8.65+ |
Family Meals
Menu Item | Description | Price |
5 Person Family Meal | 2 Large Sides & 3 Large Entrees | – |
Family Meal | Any 2 Large Sides & 3 Large Entrees | $42.00+ |
Appetizers and More
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Veggie Spring Roll | Something Extra with Your Meal | $2.40 |
Chicken Egg Roll | Something Extra with Your Meal | $2.40 |
Cream Cheese Rangoon | Something Extra with Your Meal | $2.40 |
A La Carte – Individual Entrees & Sides
Menu Item | Category | Price |
Honey Walnut Shrimp | Entree | $8.30 |
Black Pepper Sirloin Steak | Entree | $8.30 |
Mushroom Chicken | Entree | $6.50 |
Kung Pao Chicken | Entree | $6.50 |
String Bean Chicken Breast | Entree | $6.50 |
The Original Orange Chicken | Entree | $6.50 |
SweetFire Chicken Breast | Entree | $6.50 |
Honey Sesame Chicken Breast | Entree | $6.50 |
Grilled Teriyaki Chicken | Entree | $6.50 |
Broccoli Beef | Entree | $6.50 |
Beijing Beef | Entree | $6.50 |
Eggplant Tofu | Entree (Vegetarian) | $6.50 |
White Steamed Rice | Side | $5.55+ |
Fried Rice | Side | $5.55+ |
Chow Mein | Side | $5.55+ |
Super Greens | Side | $5.55+ |
Beverages
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Mango Guava Flavored Tea | $4.00+ | |
Pomegranate Pineapple Flavored Lemonade | $4.00+ | |
Dr Pepper | $2.90+ | |
Coca Cola | $2.90+ | |
Diet Coke | $2.90+ | |
Barq’s Root Beer | $2.90+ | |
Minute Maid Lemonade | $2.90+ | |
Sprite | $2.90+ | |
Coca Cola Cherry | $2.90+ | |
Fanta Strawberry | $2.90+ | |
Fuze Raspberry Iced Tea | $2.90+ | |
Dasani | 16oz Bottle | $2.90+ |
Powerade Berry Blast | 20oz Bottle | $3.40+ |
Coca Cola | 20oz Bottle | $3.00+ |
Coke Zero | 20oz Bottle | $3.00+ |
Smartwater | 700ml Bottle | $3.75+ |
Bai Coco Fusion | 18oz Bottle | $3.40+ |
Sanzo Lychee Sparkling Water | 12oz Can | $3.40+ |
Catering – Large Orders For Your Next Event
Menu Item | Description | Price |
Party Size Side | 10-12 Servings Per Party Tray | $20.40 |
Party Size Entree | 12-14 Servings Per Party Tray | $20.40+ |
Party Size Appetizer and Desserts | 12-14 Servings Per Party Tray | $40.80+ |
12-16 person Party Bundle | Your choice of 2 Party Tray Entrees, 2 Party Tray Sides, Fortune Cookies | $134.40+ |
18-22 person Party Bundle | Your choice of 3 Party Tray Entrees, 3 Party Tray Sides, Fortune Cookies | $190.80+ |
26-30 person Party Bundle | Your choice of 4 Party Tray Entrees, 4 Party Tray Sides, Fortune Cookies | $241.20+ |
Hidden Gems and Menu Hacks
For those looking to maximize value, consider ordering from the kids’ menu. The Panda Cub Meal includes an entrée, two sides, a drink, and a cookie, all for a budget-friendly price. It’s a satisfying option that doesn’t compromise on taste or portion size.
Finding Your Flavor: Panda Express Locations Made Easy
Locate Your Nearest Location: A Comprehensive Guide
To find a Panda Express near you, visit the official website and use the “Find a Location” tool. Simply enter your city or ZIP code to view nearby restaurants, along with their hours and services offered.
Locations On Map:
Panda Express Near Me: Leveraging Local Search
You can also use search engines or map applications by typing “Panda Express near me” to quickly locate the closest branches. This method provides directions, reviews, and contact information for each location.
Beyond the Strip Mall: Unique Locations
Panda Express has expanded beyond traditional storefronts, with locations in airports, universities, and shopping centers, making it convenient to enjoy your favorite dishes wherever you are.
Order Your Favorites Your Way: Delivery, Pickup, and In-Store Excellence
Your Guide to Ordering Panda Express: Convenience at Your Fingertips
Ordering from Panda is simple and flexible:
- Online Ordering: Visit the official website to customize your meal and choose between pickup or delivery.
- Mobile App: Download the Panda Express app to order ahead, save your favorite meals, and access exclusive deals.
- Third-Party Delivery: Panda Express partners with services like DoorDash and Grubhub for convenient delivery options.
- In-Store Experience: Enjoy fast and friendly service at any location, with the option to see your meal prepared fresh.
Unlock Exclusive Perks: Mastering the Panda Rewards Program
Panda Rewards: Your Path to Free Food and Exclusive Offers
Join the Panda Rewards program to earn points with every purchase. Redeem points for free entrées, sides, and more. Members also receive special offers and birthday treats.
Signing Up is Simple: Your Step-by-Step Guide
- Download the app or visit the website.
- Create an account with your email address.
- Start earning points immediately with your first order.
Earning Points Like a Pro: Maximize Your Rewards
Earn 10 points for every dollar spent. Look out for bonus point promotions and exclusive member deals to boost your rewards faster.
Redeeming Your Rewards: What Freebies Await?
Redeem points for free menu items, including entrées, sides, and drinks. Check the app regularly for new redemption options and limited-time offers.
Member Exclusives: Birthday Treats and Special Offers
Enjoy a free gift on your birthday and access to exclusive promotions available only to Panda Rewards members.
Know What You Eat: Navigating Panda Express Nutrition and Allergens
Panda Express Nutrition: Making Informed Choices
Panda Express provides a Nutrition Calculator on its website, allowing you to customize your meal and view detailed nutritional information. This tool helps you make choices that align with your dietary needs.
Spotlight on Healthier Options: Wok Smart and Lighter Choices
The Wok Smart menu features dishes with 300 calories or less per serving, such as String Bean Chicken Breast and Broccoli Beef. Pair these with Super Greens or steamed rice for a balanced meal.
Allergy Awareness
Panda Express provides allergen information for all menu items. Guests with food allergies should consult this information and inform staff of any dietary restrictions when ordering.
Panda Express Reviews
Overall Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4.2 out of 5) Based on 472 reviews on TrustScore
FAQ
Is Panda Express healthy? Some options are. Look for Wok Smart items and avoid fried entrees.
Can I customize my meal? Yes. Mix sides, swap entrees, and ask for sauces on the side.
Does they offer vegetarian options? Yes. Super Greens, Eggplant Tofu (at some locations), and veggie sides.
How do I earn rewards? Use the app or website to order. You earn points with each purchase.
Where can I find a Panda Express near me? Use the website or search in Google Maps.
Does Panda Express have gluten-free food? They don’t guarantee gluten-free meals due to shared cooking space.
Can I order ahead? Yes, through the app or website.
Does Panda Express cater? Yes. They offer catering for small and large groups.
Beyond the Food: Understanding the Panda Express Brand
Panda Express is more than just a fast-food chain; it’s a global brand known for its commitment to quality, service, and community. It continues to innovate, expand, and lead the way in American Chinese cuisine.
From its origins in a small mall location to becoming an international phenomenon, Panda Express has solidified its place in the hearts and stomachs of millions. So, next time you’re craving flavorful Chinese food, remember that they offer much more than just fast food—they offer an experience.
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I’m Sada, the founder of TripGuiderz.com. Since 2019, I’ve been crafting travel guides and blog posts to help readers plan smarter adventures. Let’s explore the world together!