"The iconic Panda Inn has been a fixture of Pasadena for the entirety of my life. Its Chinese American dishes, even in my childhood, remained consistent; the space ideal for large family gatherings. Since its 2024 remodel, which included a revamped menu, new life has been poured into the seminal restaurant that inspired a fast-food dynasty. Go for the classics, stay for surprisingly in-depth sushi menu with tangy sashimi preparations that act as palate openers before the main event; glamorous venue; and easy, seamless service."
"The titular Panda beef is a mandatory addition to the lazy Susan. Beef gets submerged in a craggy batter and deep-fried until crispy before tossed with an orange peel and peppercorn sauce. It edges out the famed orange chicken, for me, though most tables could benefit from ordering both. Hot and sour soup starts the night off right: perfectly tangy from vinegar with a tingling heat and crunchy bamboo shoots. Make sure to request white pepper to dash on top."
"Honey walnut shrimp at Panda Inn can compete with the best in the San Gabriel Valley - blessedly crisp on the outer layer that encases the plump shrimp interior. Most importantly, the shrimp isn't drowned in mayonnaise, the walnuts are expertly candied, and the addition of honeydew adds welcome (and surprising) pops of freshness. Post-remodel, Panda Inn delivers a throwback glamorous vibe where you can feel comfortable dressing up or down."
Panda Inn underwent a 2024 remodel that introduced a revamped menu and renewed energy to the Pasadena location. The restaurant preserves Chinese American classics while expanding with an in-depth sushi selection featuring tangy sashimi as palate openers. Signature dishes include the Panda beef—deep-fried in a craggy batter and finished with orange peel and peppercorn sauce—hot and sour soup with tangy vinegar and crunchy bamboo shoots, and honey walnut shrimp with a crisp coating, lightly sauced shrimp, candied walnuts, and honeydew. The dining room offers a glamorous, throwback vibe with private booths, carved-wood details, romantic lighting, and East Asian–inspired murals. Fortune cookies are sold wrapped and white chocolate–dipped for $10 a dozen.
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