When asking yourself about something to do near me in Denver with a group of friends or family, consider
Panda Express
Why Panda Express is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Panda Express stands out as a top spot for friends to meet and enjoy a quick, flavorful meal centered on American-Chinese cuisine. Founded in 1983, it has grown into the largest Asian-segment fast-food chain in the United States with over 2,400 locations. Its approachable casual dining atmosphere paired with iconic dishes such as Orange Chicken, Beijing Beef, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, and Kung Pao Chicken makes it a popular choice for sharing meals. Beyond classics, customers can indulge in premium selections like Honey Walnut Shrimp and Black Pepper Angus Steak, offering variety for different tastes. Panda Express locations are versatile, found in food courts, standalone buildings, airports, casinos, universities, and amusement parks, making it convenient for gatherings in diverse settings. The company’s commitment to fresh, made-to-order food enhances the dining experience, ensuring each meal feels satisfying even in a fast-food setting. Additionally, Panda Express supports philanthropic efforts through its Panda Cares program, contributing to children’s charities and community initiatives, which adds a meaningful dimension for socially conscious diners. The blend of speedy service, tasty cuisine, and a welcoming environment makes Panda Express an ideal meetup spot for casual, enjoyable dining.
Here's what people think of Panda Express
As of recent, Panda Express holds a 3.3-star rating based on 736 reviews.
User reviews for Panda Express show mixed feedback resulting in a 3.3 out of 5 rating across over 700 reviews. Many customers appreciate the consistent taste and signature menu items which deliver familiar flavors in an accessible way. Positive comments often highlight the convenience of locations, quick service, and quality of popular dishes such as Orange Chicken, which many consider a go-to favorite. Additionally, some reviews commend the family-oriented atmosphere and the option for varied premium dishes that elevate the menu experience.
On the other hand, critical reviews commonly mention issues such as food quality inconsistencies between locations, long wait times during peak hours, and service that can vary significantly depending on the staff and location. Some customers also express dissatisfaction with pricing, feeling that premium items are sometimes overpriced relative to preparation and portion size. Negative feedback sometimes includes comments about the atmosphere being too utilitarian or lacking the ambiance expected from a casual dining experience.
Overall, Panda Express maintains a solid reputation as a convenient and flavorful fast-food option for American-Chinese cuisine, appealing broadly despite occasional operational hiccups. The positive reviews emphasize reliability and taste, while the negatives provide insight into areas for improvement, especially consistent service and food quality across its widespread locations.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Honest Critiques
May 1, 2024 Wednesday, Concourse A. Beef was hard. Noodles were chewy and under cooked. Orange chicken didn't taste fresh. Honey walnut shrimp was okay, but also didn't taste freshly prepared. Entree portions were small. Look closely at the picture. One item was rock hard, and didn't look like the shrimp or the beef. They opened at 5:00AM but it was after 5:20AM when they started taking orders. They only had like seven items out. The mixed vegetables looked extremely under cooked, and looked to only be broccoli and cauliflower. Although the cashier said hello, and thank you, she also spoke in Spanish to a co worker during my checkout. I definitely will not order here again. I could not eat most of that food!
Kan Blasi
Lady named Prabita at the cash was super rude and she did something disgusting. She was handling cash and while doing so, she picked up ice and threw it back in the bin where the ice was used for fountain drinks. I called it out and she didn’t even apologize while filling my drink. She just stared at me blindly and asked for the next customer. Don’t get sick by eating here.
Eric Dao
Only eat it if you're hungry. Probably because it's a restaurant in the airport but nothing special about it. Food was okay, edible but not flavourful and the meat was a bit hard.
Derrick
This is a very good Panda Express location. The food met my expectations, and the staff were very courteous and accommodating.
888 Entertainment LLC
Okay staff and vibe here. They not very friendly & I was given a used old bag they had to open back up to remake. The bag had a double knot that was cut open. The manager has a Vietnamese name and when asked out of curiosity he lied hahaha. Food was decent. When asked for bathroom code staff said it once & very vague instructions. Were not helpful. It’s okay. It’s panda express, so what do you expect. Knowing that Panda pays their managers 75k-100k+ salary wouldn’t you expect better energy & hospitality?
How to reach Panda Express
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Why Panda Express may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Panda Express is an ideal spot to gather with friends for a casual, fun dining experience thanks to its approachable menu, inviting atmosphere, and well-known brand appeal. This American fast-food chain, specializing in American-Chinese cuisine, offers a familiar and comforting taste adventure that appeals to a broad audience. Whether you and your friends crave the signature Orange Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, or premium options like Honey Walnut Shrimp, Panda Express provides flavorful, made-to-order meals that can please even diverse tastes. Its fast-casual concept makes it easy to accommodate groups of various sizes because diners can enjoy quick service without the long wait times typical of sit-down restaurants. Moreover, its presence in accessible locations like malls, airports, and standalone restaurants means it’s a convenient meeting place wherever you or your friends might be coming from. The casual setting encourages relaxed conversation and easy socializing, making it perfect for meetups that focus more on spending time together than formal dining.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at Panda Express?
Panda Express caters primarily to dining experiences but offers a range of enjoyable activities around the meal that make it an excellent venue for a group meetup. First, the ordering process is engaging—groups can explore the menu together and try a variety of dishes thanks to the chain’s variety and sharing-friendly portions. This fosters a communal dining experience where friends can taste and recommend favorites. The locations, often located in lively settings like shopping centers or entertainment hubs, naturally encourage pairing your meal with nearby activities like shopping, movie watching, or casual strolls within the venue. Some Panda Express locations have seating areas spacious enough to host birthday celebrations, small informal gatherings, or post-activity meals for sports groups or families. Additionally, with its focus on fresh ingredients and made-to-order meals, guests can customize their orders, making it an enjoyable experience even for those with specific dietary preferences or picky eaters. The blend of fast service and flavorful food keeps the energy high and the atmosphere vibrant, ideal for sustaining a friendly group dynamic.
Why is Panda Express a great place for group meetups?
Panda Express stands out as a great place for group meetups primarily because of its versatility, flavor variety, and convenience. The chain’s fast-casual dining format means you don't have to wait long to eat, which is perfect for groups that want to enjoy each other's company without delays. The menu is crafted to offer dishes that suit many palates, balancing classic American-Chinese flavors like Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef with options for those wanting lighter or more premium fare. This variety ensures all guests find something enjoyable, which is a critical factor when planning group outings. Panda Express locations often have a casual, vibrant ambiance with seating designed to accommodate groups, providing a comfortable space for conversation and connection. Its widespread presence, including in malls, airports, and standalone storefronts, offers flexibility in meetup locations, accommodating friends or families coming from diverse areas. Finally, Panda Express’s family-owned heritage and community focus, including philanthropic efforts, add a warm, authentic value to your gathering, knowing you’re supporting a brand that values giving back.
How does the menu at Panda Express appeal to groups?
The menu at Panda Express is specially designed for sharing and variety, which makes it particularly suitable for groups. Signature dishes like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao Chicken are crowd-pleasers that offer familiar and bold flavors. Meanwhile, the chain also includes a selection of premium dishes such as Honey Walnut Shrimp and Black Pepper Angus Steak, allowing groups to indulge in something special. The option to choose multiple entrees and sides means groups can order family-style platters to share, promoting interaction as everyone tries different items. Additionally, the availability of kid-friendly options and customizable sides means Panda Express can accommodate all ages and tastes within a group, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings as well as friend meetups. The consistent quality and fresh, made-to-order meals guarantee that everyone leaves satisfied, which enhances the overall positive experience at group events.
What makes Panda Express locations convenient and accessible for group gatherings?
Panda Express’s extensive footprint with over 2,400 locations across North America and Asia ensures that no matter where your friends are, there’s likely a nearby spot to convene. The strategic placement of restaurants in high-traffic, easily accessible venues like shopping mall food courts, airports, amusement parks, military bases, and universities means that it’s easy to plan a meetup without worrying about complicated logistics. Many locations offer ample seating areas that accommodate groups comfortably, so they can eat together and socialize without feeling cramped. The chain’s combination of standalone restaurants and food court outlets means you can pick a setting best suited to your meetup’s vibe—whether relaxed and casual or more active and on the go. Furthermore, Panda Express provides services like online ordering, catering, and takeout, giving groups flexible options in how they enjoy their meal. Convenience is further enhanced by the restaurant’s efficient service model that minimizes wait times, making it a practical choice for friends or family on tight schedules.
Why should you consider Panda Express for your next casual event?
Choosing Panda Express for your next casual meetup or group event guarantees a blend of familiar cuisine, efficient service, and a welcoming environment. The family-owned business’s dedication to high-quality ingredients and freshly prepared meals means every visit feels thoughtful and satisfying. Its broad menu variety can cater to diverse dietary and taste preferences, which is often essential for group harmony during social gatherings. Because many locations are nestled in vibrant commercial and entertainment centers, a meal at Panda Express can be part of a larger outing, such as a shopping trip, movie night, or local exploration. The relaxed atmosphere and quick service mean that no matter how big or small your group is, the experience remains flexible and low-stress. Finally, by supporting a company with strong community involvement and ethical values, your gathering also connects to a larger purpose, providing a subtle but meaningful backdrop to your enjoyable time with friends or family. This combination makes Panda Express more than just a place to eat—it’s a convenient, tasty, and comfortable destination for connecting with those who matter most.