Panda Express

AsianOwner Verified

About

Sitting at the corner of Garnet and Ingraham at 1656 Garnet Ave in the 92109, this Panda Express is the Pacific Beach outpost of the American-Chinese fast-casual chain founded in 1983 by Andrew and Peggy Cherng. The location earned a perfect 100-out-of-100 health department score and carries a 3.7-star Google rating across 222 reviews, with staff members Brandon, Juan, and longtime employee Fiamma earning repeat shout-outs from regulars for generous portions and fast counter service. The menu features the brand's signature Orange Chicken alongside Wok Smart entrees that clock in at 300 calories or less, including Kung Pao Chicken, Broccoli Beef, and Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. Bowl, plate, and bigger plate combos pair any entree with fried rice, chow mein, or steamed white rice, and family-sized meals for five make group orders simple. The dining room offers wheelchair-accessible seating, high chairs, and a kids' menu, and an outdoor patio welcomes guests with dogs. Shoppers heading to Staples down the block for office supplies can swing through for a quick lunch on the way. Delivery runs through DoorDash, Uber Eats, and the Panda Express app, and the store keeps extended hours daily—doors open by 9:30 a.m. and stay open as late as 10:30 p.m. Catering platters are available for office events and parties. Diners who prefer a sit-down Asian experience can continue east on Garnet to PB Sushi for hand-rolled nigiri and sake. The location shares a parking lot with neighboring retailers on Garnet, making access straightforward even during peak beach-traffic hours.