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.
After winning "Top Chef," Mei Lin became a culinary force in Los Angeles with the now-closed Nightshade and her still-popular fast-casual spot Daybird. At her new 88 Club in Beverly Hills, Lin explores Chinese and Chinese American in a posh fine-dining setting. Her prawn toast is a brilliant take on the Cantonese snack and her nam yu chicken is universal comfort food, but other dishes are less fully realized.
General Tso's chicken is a Chinese-American dish not commonly eaten in China; it was first produced in Taiwan by Hunanese chef Peng Chang-kuei to suit the tastes of an American admiral.