When Was Panda Express Founded? A Deep Dive into the Orange Chicken Empire

Panda Express, the undisputed king of American Chinese cuisine in the fast-food world, opened its very first location on October 8, 1983, in Glendale Galleria, Glendale, California. But the story behind this Orange Chicken behemoth is far more intricate and fascinating than just a simple date. Let’s delve into the journey of how this culinary powerhouse came to be and answer some frequently asked questions along the way.

The Genesis of a Fast-Food Giant

The tale of Panda Express begins with the Cherng family, Chinese immigrants who arrived in the United States with dreams of entrepreneurial success. Andrew Cherng, the visionary behind Panda Express, had previous experience in the restaurant industry, helping his father run Panda Inn, a more traditional Chinese restaurant. He recognized a gap in the market: a desire for accessible and convenient Chinese food tailored to the American palate.

Inspired by the bustling atmosphere of shopping malls, Andrew Cherng, along with his father, Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, decided to create a fast-food concept that would bring the flavors of China to a wider audience. With a loan from the Small Business Administration and the support of his wife, Peggy Cherng, who brought her expertise in software development and engineering to the table, the first Panda Express was born.

From Mall Food Court to Global Phenomenon

That inaugural Glendale Galleria location proved to be a game-changer. Panda Express quickly gained popularity for its bold flavors, quick service, and affordable prices. The menu, a carefully curated selection of Chinese-American favorites, was an instant hit. Dishes like Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli Beef, and, of course, the iconic Orange Chicken captivated customers and kept them coming back for more.

The success of the first location spurred further expansion. The Cherngs meticulously refined their business model, focusing on consistency, quality, and customer satisfaction. Peggy Cherng’s background in technology played a crucial role in developing efficient systems for managing inventory, training staff, and maintaining consistent food standards across all locations.

Over the years, Panda Express has evolved from a simple mall food court stall into a global powerhouse, with thousands of locations across the United States and in countries around the world. It has become synonymous with American Chinese cuisine and a cultural phenomenon in its own right. The journey from that single Glendale Galleria location to the empire we know today is a testament to the Cherng family’s vision, hard work, and dedication.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Panda Express

Here are some frequently asked questions about Panda Express, providing further insights into its history, operations, and legacy:

1. Who founded Panda Express?

Andrew Cherng, along with his father Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, founded Panda Express. Peggy Cherng, Andrew’s wife, played a significant role in the company’s success through her expertise in software development and engineering.

2. What was the first Panda Express location?

The very first Panda Express opened on October 8, 1983, in Glendale Galleria, Glendale, California.

3. What is the most popular dish at Panda Express?

Without a doubt, the Orange Chicken is the most popular and iconic dish at Panda Express. Its sweet, tangy, and crispy flavor profile has made it a favorite among millions.

4. 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 countries like Canada, Mexico, Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates.

5. Is Panda Express a family-owned business?

Yes, Panda Express remains a family-owned and operated business. The Cherng family is still actively involved in the company’s management and strategic direction.

6. 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.” This reflects their commitment to both their employees and their customers.

7. Does Panda Express offer vegetarian options?

Yes, Panda Express offers several vegetarian options, including the Super Greens blend, chow mein, and fried rice. While some sauces may contain animal products, customers can request modifications to certain dishes to make them vegetarian-friendly. It is always best to confirm directly with the restaurant.

8. How has Panda Express adapted its menu over the years?

Panda Express has continuously adapted its menu to cater to evolving consumer tastes and dietary preferences. While keeping core dishes like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken, they’ve introduced new items like Honey Walnut Shrimp, Black Pepper Chicken, and healthier options like the Wok Smart menu.

9. What is the significance of the name “Panda”?

The name “Panda” was chosen to evoke a sense of friendliness, approachability, and cultural connection to China. The panda is a beloved symbol of China, and it helped to create a welcoming and recognizable brand image.

10. What is the Panda Express Innovation Kitchen?

The Panda Express Innovation Kitchen is a concept restaurant located in Pasadena, California, that serves as a testing ground for new menu items and restaurant designs. It allows Panda Express to experiment and gather feedback from customers before rolling out new initiatives nationwide.

11. How does Panda Express ensure consistency across all locations?

Panda Express maintains consistency across its locations through standardized recipes, training programs, and quality control measures. Peggy Cherng’s expertise in technology has been instrumental in developing systems for monitoring food quality, managing inventory, and ensuring that all locations adhere to the same standards.

12. What is Panda Express’s approach to sustainability and corporate social responsibility?

Panda Express is committed to sustainability and corporate social responsibility. They have implemented initiatives to reduce their environmental impact, such as sourcing sustainable ingredients, reducing waste, and conserving energy. They also actively support local communities through philanthropic endeavors and partnerships with organizations like the Boys & Girls Clubs of America. The company has been gradually committing to cage-free eggs across its supply chain.