Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Trusted Asian Dining Experience Since 1973
Panda Express has been delivering exceptional Asian dining experiences since 1973, driven by our founders' vision to build an organization where people are inspired to better their lives. Our leadership team, including co-founders Andrew and Peggy Cherng, combines visionary entrepreneurship with operational excellence to create sustainable growth and industry innovation. With over 2,600 locations worldwide, we've revolutionized American Chinese cuisine while maintaining our commitment to quality and authenticity.Our culture emphasizes employee development, community impact through Panda Cares, and continuous improvement in both culinary offerings and operational practices. As a certified Great Place to Work, we prioritize respect, win-win relationships, and proactive leadership that shapes the future of dining experiences.
Services
Panda Express
Panda Inn
Hibachi-San
American Chinese Cuisine
Catering Services
Details
- Year established: 1973
Highlights and features
- We've pioneered American Chinese cuisine for over 50 years with 2,600+ global locations
- Our employee-first culture has earned Great Place to Work certification since 2020
- We've raised $415 million for youth health and education through Panda Cares
- Our innovative menu development created iconic dishes like Orange Chicken
- We offer career growth through University of Panda's educational resources
Associations and certifications
- Great Place to Work
Services
Panda Express
America's largest Asian restaurant chain revolutionized American Chinese cuisine since 1983. Our fast-casual concept combines authentic flavors with convenient service, featuring signature dishes like Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef. With over 2,600 locations worldwide, we make quality Chinese cuisine accessible to millions daily while maintaining our commitment to culinary innovation.
Panda Inn
Our original full-service concept since 1973 offers traditional Chinese cuisine with modern twists. Located primarily in Southern California, Panda Inn delivers authentic dining experiences using recipes from Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng's heritage in Yangzhou, Taiwan, and Japan. The flagship Pasadena location remains a culinary landmark celebrating five decades of excellence.
Panda Cares
Our corporate social responsibility initiative focuses on youth health and education since 1999. Through guest and associate contributions, Panda Cares has raised $415 million to establish 150+ Centers of Hope and donated 2.1 million meals. This program partners with Children's Miracle Network Hospitals and Boys & Girls Clubs of America to create lasting community impact.
University of Panda
Launched in 2013, this educational platform provides professional and personal development resources to all associates. The program supports career growth through structured learning paths, leadership training, and skill development courses. University of Panda reflects our commitment to creating growth opportunities that benefit both employees and business operations.
Panda Rewards
Our customer loyalty initiative launched in 2023 offers rewards for frequent purchases. The program provides personalized offers, exclusive promotions, and digital convenience through mobile ordering. Panda Rewards enhances customer experience while maintaining our focus on quality food and service excellence that has defined our brand since 1973.
People
Andrew Cherng
Co-Founder, Co-Chair, Co-CEO
Co-founded Panda Express in 1973 with his father. Combines visionary entrepreneurship with technological innovation to shape the company's strategic direction while maintaining culinary authenticity.
Peggy Cherng
Co-Founder, Co-Chair, Co-CEO
Co-founder instrumental in developing Panda's people-centric operations since 1973. Focuses on organizational systems and employee development that support sustainable growth and exceptional guest experiences.
Questions
What is Panda Restaurant Group's core mission?
We deliver exceptional Asian dining experiences while building an organization where people are inspired to better their lives through career growth and community impact.
What restaurant brands does Panda operate?
We operate Panda Express (fast-casual), Panda Inn (full-service), and Hibachi-San, offering diverse Asian dining experiences from traditional Chinese to modern fusion concepts.
How does Panda support employee development?
Through University of Panda's educational resources, profit-sharing opportunities since 1983, and career advancement programs that have helped develop 55,000 associates globally.
What community initiatives does Panda support?
Panda Cares has raised $415 million since 1999 for youth health and education, while the Panda CommUnity Fund invests $10 million in social justice initiatives nationwide.
How can I access Panda's media resources?
Visit our Media Center for press releases, brand assets, and corporate information including financial milestones like $6 billion in total sales.
