It’s been a rewarding transformation since the original Panda Inn closed for a two-year remodeling. The newly updated Pasadena restaurant is a testament to its founding chef, Ming-Tsai Cherng. Nestled in a shopping center, the Panda Inn stands apart from its more casual cousins, Panda Express, known for its menu item, orange chicken.
Orange chicken is beloved by many and often seen as the quintessential American Chinese dish. The crispy, sweet chicken coated in a tangy sauce appeals to a wide audience. Interestingly, a recent survey by the National Restaurant Association found that American consumers crave bold flavors, making dishes like orange chicken a perfect fit for American tastes.
The revamped Panda Inn features a sophisticated atmosphere, with high ceilings and beautiful wood finishes. It draws inspiration from the elegant Grand Hotel in Taipei, where Cherng honed his culinary skills. As the menu reflects, this restaurant offers a blend of traditional Chinese cuisine enriched with modern techniques.
The menu pays homage to the Cherng family’s journey from Yangzhou, China. It includes vibrant dishes like hamachi tacos with Anaheim chiles, and distinctive sushi offerings, such as the Seared A2 Surf and Turf Roll, made with premium ingredients. It’s a culinary experience far beyond what one would find at typical fast-food establishments.
Classic comfort foods like egg drop soup and sweet and sour pork still make an appearance but have received modern twists. For example, the sweet and sour pork now features Kurobuta pork.
The beverage selection is similarly elevated, featuring a cocktail bar that mixes creative drinks. Dessert choices have transformed too, moving from simple fortune cookies to rich chocolate lava cake and warm rice pudding, both served with vanilla ice cream.
This new Panda Inn balances nostalgia with innovation. Many long-time patrons may recall their first visit in 1973, when it was the must-visit Chinese restaurant in the area. Over time, San Gabriel Valley has evolved into a culinary hotspot, but the Panda Inn remains a standout.
In a world where food trends come and go, the Panda Inn serves as a bridge between tradition and contemporary flair, continuing to make orange chicken an enduring favorite.
For more about the restaurant and its offerings, visit Panda Inn.
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