The Improbable Empire: Unraveling the Origin of Panda Express

Panda Express, the ubiquitous purveyor of American-Chinese cuisine, began its journey in Glendale, California, in 1983. That’s right, not in China, not in some back alley of a major Chinatown, but nestled in the sunny suburbs of Southern California, a testament to the remarkable adaptability and reinterpretation of culinary traditions.

The Cherng Family’s American Dream

The story of Panda Express is fundamentally the story of the Cherng family, immigrants who, with grit, vision, and a healthy dose of entrepreneurial spirit, transformed a humble restaurant into a global fast-food giant. Understanding their journey is crucial to understanding the brand itself.

From Panda Inn to Panda Express

Before there was Panda Express, there was Panda Inn. Founded in 1973 in Pasadena, California, by Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng and his father, a trained chef from Yangzhou, China, Panda Inn was a full-service restaurant aiming to deliver a more authentic and upscale Chinese dining experience. This venture was born from a loan secured with the help of a family friend, but the Cherngs always had a strong work ethic to push them forward.

The move from Panda Inn to Panda Express was facilitated by a fortunate connection. Ming-Tsai Cherng, now known as Andrew Cherng, struck up a friendship with Donald Comrie, the development manager for Glendale Galleria. Comrie recognized the potential for a faster, more accessible version of Panda Inn’s cuisine within the bustling mall environment. This meeting of minds led to the opening of the very first Panda Express at the Glendale Galleria food court in 1983.

The Evolution of the Menu

While Panda Inn emphasized traditional Chinese dishes, Panda Express quickly adapted to American tastes. The menu was streamlined, focusing on quicker preparation and flavors that resonated with a broader audience. This wasn’t a betrayal of tradition, but a savvy business decision. The introduction of dishes like Orange Chicken, which became an instant sensation, cemented Panda Express’s position in the fast-food landscape.

Key Factors in Panda Express’s Success

The rise of Panda Express is a case study in successful adaptation and execution. Several factors contributed to their remarkable growth.

• Strategic Location: Starting in malls provided high foot traffic and built-in customer base.
• Menu Adaptation: Tailoring dishes to American palates ensured mass appeal.
• Operational Efficiency: Streamlined processes allowed for quick service and consistent quality.
• Franchise Model (Initially): Early franchising allowed for rapid expansion and brand recognition.
• Strong Family Leadership: The Cherng family’s dedication and vision were instrumental in guiding the company.
• Employee Focus: Panda Express is known for its focus on employee development and promoting from within.

The Panda Express Legacy

From its humble beginnings in a Glendale mall food court, Panda Express has grown into a global phenomenon. With thousands of locations worldwide, it has become synonymous with accessible and affordable American-Chinese food. But the story is more than just about profit; it’s about a family’s American dream, their relentless pursuit of excellence, and their ability to adapt to a changing market while staying true to their core values. The Orange Chicken might be what gets people through the door, but the story behind the brand is what keeps them coming back.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Panda Express

Q1: Was the first Panda Express a franchise?

Yes, initially Panda Express did use a franchising model. However, they later transitioned to a primarily company-owned model for greater control over quality and consistency. Nowadays, almost all Panda Express locations are company owned and operated.

Q2: Why did Panda Express choose Orange Chicken as their signature dish?

Orange Chicken was developed to appeal to the American palate by incorporating a sweet and tangy flavor profile. Chef Andy Kao tweaked a Mandarin-style orange flavored beef dish to work with chicken which Americans would enjoy. It quickly became a hit and remains their most popular item.

Q3: How many Panda Express locations are there worldwide?

As of 2023, there are over 2,400 Panda Express locations worldwide, primarily in the United States, but also in Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, the Philippines, Russia, Guatemala, Aruba, and the United Arab Emirates.

Q4: Is Panda Express owned by a Chinese company?

No. Panda Express is an American company founded by Chinese immigrants Andrew and Peggy Cherng. The company is headquartered in Rosemead, California.

Q5: What is Panda Express’s mission statement?

Panda Restaurant Group’s mission statement is “To deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences by building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives.”

Q6: What is the Panda Express innovation kitchen?

Located in Pasadena, California, the Panda Express Innovation Kitchen serves as a test kitchen and restaurant where new dishes and concepts are developed and tested before being rolled out to other locations. It allows the company to experiment and get direct feedback from customers.

Q7: How does Panda Express support the community?

Through Panda Cares, their philanthropic arm, Panda Express supports various community initiatives focused on health and education. They partner with organizations like Children’s Miracle Network Hospitals and provide disaster relief efforts.

Q8: What other restaurants does the Cherng family own?

Besides Panda Express and Panda Inn, the Cherng family also owns Hibachi-San, a Japanese grill and sushi restaurant chain, primarily found in shopping malls and food courts.

Q9: How did Andrew and Peggy Cherng meet?

Andrew and Peggy Cherng met while studying at Baker University in Baldwin City, Kansas. Both of them were pursuing their education in mathematics and applied mathematics, respectively.

Q10: What are some of Panda Express’s lesser-known menu items?

While Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken are popular, Panda Express also offers options like Honey Walnut Shrimp, Black Pepper Chicken, and Mushroom Chicken. These dishes provide variety for customers looking to explore beyond the signature items.

Q11: Has Panda Express ever faced any controversy?

Like any large corporation, Panda Express has faced occasional controversies, including allegations related to labor practices and food safety. The company has generally responded by addressing concerns and implementing improvements to their operations.

Q12: What are the future plans for Panda Express?

Panda Express continues to expand globally, focusing on new markets and innovative menu offerings. They are also investing in technology to improve the customer experience and streamline operations, ensuring the company maintains its competitive edge in the ever-evolving fast-food industry. The company remains committed to its values and mission, focusing on inspiring people to better their lives.