Panda Express is one of the most popular Asian-inspired fast food chains in the United States. With over 2,300 locations across the country, it serves up classic Chinese dishes like orange chicken, Beijing beef, honey walnut shrimp, and more to millions of hungry customers every year.
But behind the wok and the drive-thru window is an inspiring story of the Chinese-American dream. Panda Express was founded by a young couple who immigrated from China in pursuit of higher education and opportunity. Through determination, innovation, and sharing their culture’s cuisine, they created a fast-casual empire that brings a taste of Chinese flavors to the American palate.
In this article, we’ll explore the origins of Panda Express and the journey of its founders. We’ll learn about their menu, innovation in the kitchen, approach to expansion, and dedication to giving back. Read on to get better acquainted with one of America’s favorite Chinese food chains.
Panda Express Early Days and Founders’ Journey
Panda Express was founded in 1983 by Andrew Cherng and his wife Peggy. Andrew came to the United States in 1963 from Yangzhou, China to pursue graduate studies in math and economics. He met his wife Peggy at Baker University, where she studied electrical engineering after immigrating from Hong Kong.
In 1973, the couple opened their first Chinese restaurant in Pasadena named Panda Inn. At the time, authentic Chinese cuisine was still new and exotic to most Americans. The fine-dining concept was ahead of consumer tastes and did not thrive. However, it planted a seed and gave Andrew and Peggy experience in the restaurant industry.
Ten years later, when emerging food courts gave rise to quick-service eateries, the Cherngs converted their Beverly Hills location into a fast food format serving classic Chinese dishes. They branded it Panda Express after their first venture. The new concept was a hit.
Panda Express Signature Menu Offerings
The Panda Express menu features classic Chinese-American dishes like orange chicken, black pepper chicken, Beijing beef, honey walnut shrimp, eggplant tofu, and mixed vegetables. Patrons can create a plate with an entrée, sides, and drink for an affordable fast casual meal.
Their orange chicken put Panda Express on the map in 1987. It was one of the first sweet, fried chicken dishes on the market. Today it remains their most popular menu item, selling over 90 million pounds per year! Crispy chicken gets tossed in a sticky sweet and zesty orange sauce made with chili paste, vinegar, soy sauce, and orange juice.
Beijing beef features thinly sliced beef in a garlic, ginger, and chili pepper sauce. It’s a spicy and flavorful option. Honey walnut shrimp is a creamy, crunchy crowd-pleaser made with tempura battered shrimp.It comes with a drizzle of honey over a tangy mayo based sauce and garnish of candied walnuts.
Innovation in the Kitchen
Andrew Cherng brought culinary innovation to the chain through the development of sauces and recipes designed specifically for fast casual service. Most Chinese restaurants were still focused on fine dining style preparations not suited for quick cooking times.
Cherng developed versatile sauces that could be batch cooked in woks and used on different proteins. He also standardized recipes so they could be easily replicated by various chefs across franchise locations. This operational innovation allowed consistent product delivery at scale.
The brand also innovates with seasonal offerings. Specials like sesame chicken salad and eggplant tofu give patrons reason to come back and try fresh flavors. Their culinary development kitchen, led by Executive Chef Andy Kao, is constantly testing new recipes and combinations.
Strategic Expansion
In the early days, Andrew and Peggy focused on perfecting operations, systems, and marketing to grow their Los Angeles Panda Express locations. Once they achieved excellent store economics and proof of concept, they began expanding through malls and food courts nationally.
Panda Express locations started popping up across America in the 1990s and 2000s. Malls were safe, high-traffic spots ideal for introducing new diners to their concept. As their following grew, they expanded into strip centers, airports, universities, stadiums, and other real estate friendly to quick-service brands.
International markets now offer growth potential for Panda Express. But the Cherng’s are taking it slowly to ensure consistent quality control and operations abroad. Currently Panda Express has over 40 international locations including sites in Mexico, South Korea, Japan, and the Middle East. The brand often partners with U.S. Army bases and American corporations overseas to serve familiar comfort food.
Panda Express Giving Back to Community
Andrew and Peggy Cherng established the Panda Cares Foundation in 1999 to give back to communities. It provides funding and volunteer support to underserved youth in three key areas:
– Health and Wellness: funds hospitals, patient care programs, and promotes preventative care
– Education: supports schools, libraries, programs for at-risk and impoverished children
– Arts and Culture: helps young people access, experience, and create art
They also developed the Panda Leadership Academy to nurture future leaders. Youth participants learn skills in financial literacy, public speaking, problem solving, and more. Academy alumni often return as interns to gain professional experience.
The Latest Innovations
Panda Express continues moving forward with fresh innovations to improve operations and reach more customers. They recently launched a delivery service through various partners to meet rising demand for restaurant delivery. New restaurants feature more drive-thru lanes for faster service to busy families and workers on the go.
Digital technology now powers rewards programs, online ordering, and labor management platforms. Their systems integrate sales data analytics to better predict traffic patterns throughout the day. This way they can schedule work shifts according to guest demand.
Andrew and Peggy’s son Andrew Jr. now runs the day-to-day operations as CEO. With the second generation at the helm, Panda Express seems poised for growth under family leadership for years to come.
The brand stays true to its roots by sharing Americanized Chinese cuisine that reminds us all of the diverse flavors within the Asian diaspora. Their fast casual service and friendly welcome now extend through over 2,300 global locations. Next time you’re craving chicken, beef, or shrimp doused in addictive Chinese sauces, visit your local Panda Express. Just look for the happy black and white bear mascot to get your fix.
Conclusion
Panda Express brings Chinese cuisine’s flavor, variety, and value to American diners on the go. Theirsignature entrees like orange chicken have become beloved menu staples across the country. What began as a fine dining establishment evolved into the nation’s largest Asian dining concept through the innovation and leadership of Chinese-American founders Andrew and Peggy Cherng.
With quality ingredients, cravable recipes, and dedication to service, Panda Express has earned its place in US food culture. Next time hunger strikes for chopsticks and takeout boxes, see what Panda Express is cooking up nearby.
