Written By Karel Gandakusumah
Panda Express is a fast casual restaurant chain that serves Chinese inspired foods. They have a choice of Bowl (1 Side + 1 Entree), Plate (1 Side + 2 Entree) and a Bigger Plate (1 Side + 3 Entree) with A La Carte options as well. Their food philosophy in their words “inspires a fresh, flavorful combination of Chinese regional cuisine and technique with bold American tastes”.
Their story starts in 1973 when the Panda Inn restaurant was founded by Andrew Cherng, Peggy Cherng and Andrew's father, Master Chef Ming Tsai Cherng. In 1983 Andrew became acquainted with the owners of Donahue Schriber Real Estate. They collaborated to develop a fast food version of the Panda Inn, named Panda Express. Store after store opened as they steadily expanded in the United States.
Currently Panda Express is not franchised and is still corporate owned. However they offer licensing opportunities. To learn more click here.