Panda Express is a household name in the world of fast food, renowned for its American-Chinese fusion dishes. Whether it’s their iconic orange chicken, Beijing beef, or chow mein, the brand has become a staple in food courts and standalone locations worldwide. However, many people are unaware of the journey that led to the creation of Panda Express, including the story of its first location and how it became the dominant fast-food chain it is today.
In this article, we will delve into the history of Panda Express, focusing on when and where the first store was opened, as well as the factors that contributed to its rapid expansion. From its humble beginnings to its global reach, the story of Panda Express is an inspiring tale of entrepreneurship and innovation.
The Founding of Panda Express
The journey of Panda Express began in 1983, but the roots of the restaurant go back even further, to the early 1970s. The story begins with the founder of Panda Express, Andrew Cherng, and his father, Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng. The Cherng family immigrated to the United States from China, and their entrepreneurial spirit and culinary expertise would soon lead to the creation of a brand that redefined Chinese cuisine in America.
Before launching Panda Express, Andrew Cherng and his father opened a Chinese restaurant called Panda Inn in 1973 in Pasadena, California. Panda Inn became a success, known for its high-quality Chinese dishes with Americanized flavors that appealed to the American palate. This restaurant was an early precursor to the Panda Express concept, setting the stage for what was to come.
The Birth of Panda Express
In 1983, Andrew Cherng, along with his wife Peggy Cherng, founded Panda Express in Glendale, California. The first Panda Express was located in the Glendale Galleria shopping center. The decision to open a fast-casual Chinese restaurant in a mall was groundbreaking. At the time, food courts were not as common as they are today, and Chinese food in a fast-food setting was an entirely new concept.
Panda Express initially started as a small kiosk in the food court, serving quick, affordable Chinese meals. The concept was simple: to provide high-quality Chinese food in a fast, convenient format that could be enjoyed by people on the go. The restaurant quickly gained popularity for its unique combination of flavors, including dishes like orange chicken, beef and broccoli, and fried rice.
Why Was Panda Express So Popular?
Panda Express’s success can be attributed to several key factors:
Americanized Chinese Cuisine: One of the main reasons Panda Express became so popular was its ability to cater to American tastes while still offering traditional Chinese dishes. The flavors were modified to appeal to the broader American audience who might not be familiar with authentic Chinese food.
Quick and Convenient: The fast-casual format of Panda Express, with its counter-service model, allowed customers to get their food quickly without compromising on quality. This was a huge advantage for busy consumers who wanted a quick meal during their shopping trips.
Affordable Pricing: Panda Express made Chinese food affordable, which was a key selling point for people looking for a cheap meal. It allowed customers to enjoy a satisfying, tasty dish without breaking the bank.
The Iconic Orange Chicken: No discussion of Panda Express would be complete without mentioning their Orange Chicken.
This dish, which features crispy chicken pieces tossed in a sweet and tangy orange sauce, became the signature item of the restaurant and helped to build the brand’s reputation.
Expansion of Panda Express
The success of the first Panda Express location in Glendale was just the beginning. As word spread about the quality and taste of the food, more locations began to open across the country. By the late 1980s, Panda Express had opened several more restaurants, primarily in California.
By the 1990s, the company had begun to expand outside of California, and it wasn’t long before Panda Express became a national brand. The opening of new stores, combined with the growing trend of food courts in malls and shopping centers, contributed to the rapid growth of the chain.
One important factor in Panda Express’s ability to expand so quickly was its relationship with Panda Restaurant Group. This company, founded by the Cherng family, also oversees the operations of Panda Inn and other related ventures. Panda Restaurant Group’s support allowed Panda Express to grow at a pace that many other restaurant chains could not match.
Panda Express Goes Global
In the 2000s, Panda Express took its first steps toward becoming an international brand. While the company continued to expand across the United States, it also began opening locations in international markets, starting with Mexico in 2001. By 2012, the brand had expanded to South Korea, marking its entry into the Asian market.
Today, Panda Express operates in over 15 countries, including locations in Canada, Japan, Dubai, and more. The brand’s international success is a testament to the adaptability of its American-Chinese fusion model, which appeals to a wide range of tastes around the world.
The Legacy of The First Panda Express
The first Panda Express, opened in Glendale, California, in 1983, holds a special place in the hearts of both the Cherng family and the countless customers who have enjoyed its offerings over the years. While the original location may have changed over the years, the success of the first store set the stage for what has become one of the largest and most recognizable fast-food chains in the world.
In 2004, Panda Restaurant Group made the decision to open the Panda Express Innovation Kitchen in Rosemead, California.
This location was designed to test new menu items and serve as a headquarters for the brand’s culinary development. The goal was to continually innovate and introduce new flavors while maintaining the brand’s commitment to quality and consistency.
Conclusion
The story of Panda Express is a testament to the power of innovation, entrepreneurship, and a deep understanding of consumer preferences. From its humble beginnings in 1983 in Glendale, California, to its status as a global fast-food powerhouse, Panda Express has reshaped the way people think about Chinese cuisine in the United States and beyond.
With its continued growth, focus on sustainability, and commitment to providing high-quality, delicious meals, Panda Express will likely remain a favorite among fast-food enthusiasts for years to come. The first location in Glendale will always serve as a reminder of how a small idea can grow into a global brand, changing the fast-food industry along the way.
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