Panda Inn

Nestled in the heart of Pasadena at 3488 E Foothill Blvd, Panda Inn stands as a culinary landmark where tradition meets innovation. Founded in 1973 by Andrew Cherng, Peggy Cherng, and Master Chef Ming-Tsai Cherng, this Mandarin restaurant has spent over five decades redefining American Chinese cuisine. What began as a family endeavor to introduce Southern California to the bold flavors of Sichuan and Mandarin cooking has evolved into a beloved institution, recently revitalized after a two-year renovation that honors its heritage while embracing modern dining expectations.

The Cherng family’s journey reflects the quintessential American dream. Andrew Cherng, a Baker University alumnus, and his father Ming-Tsai—a seasoned chef from Yangzhou, China—crafted a menu that broke from the Cantonese-dominated scene of the 1970s. Dishes like their signature Sichuan-style spicy noodles and Mandarin-inspired entrees became a gateway for diners seeking authentic yet approachable flavors. Today, the restaurant’s informal yet inviting atmosphere caters to everything from casual dinners to catered events, with a full-service bar complementing its diverse offerings.

Panda Inn’s story is inseparable from the rise of its parent company, Panda Restaurant Group, which later launched the globally recognized Panda Express chain. However, the original Pasadena location remains a testament to the family’s roots. As Andrew Cherng recalls, the early years were a “wonderful training” in perseverance, where each guest’s satisfaction became the cornerstone of their philosophy. This ethos still permeates the dining experience, whether through handcrafted dumplings, wok-tossed specialties, or personalized catering services tailored to Southern California’s vibrant communities.

The 2024 reopening marked a new chapter, blending nostalgic elements—like recipes passed down from Ming-Tsai—with contemporary design touches. Located minutes from Old Pasadena, the restaurant continues to serve as a bridge between cultures, offering dishes that balance heat, sweetness, and umami in true Mandarin tradition. For those seeking a taste of history paired with culinary creativity, Panda Inn’s phone number—+1 626-793-7300—remains a portal to a legacy built on family, flavor, and the enduring appeal of shared meals.

Beyond its menu, Panda Inn thrives as a community hub. Its role as a caterer for local events underscores its adaptability, while the bar’s curated selection of wines and craft cocktails reflects California’s diverse palate. The recent renovations have preserved the intimate charm that regulars cherish, with updated interiors that nod to mid-century modern aesthetics. This duality—honoring the past while innovating for the future—positions Panda Inn not just as a restaurant, but as a cultural touchstone where every dish tells a story of migration, reinvention, and the universal language of good food.

From its humble beginnings as a neighborhood eatery to its current status as a Southern California staple, Panda Inn’s journey mirrors the evolution of American Chinese cuisine itself. It’s a place where first-time visitors and lifelong patrons alike can savor the results of five decades of refinement, all within the walls of a Pasadena address that has become synonymous with culinary excellence. Whether through a steaming bowl of dan dan noodles or a meticulously planned catering menu, the restaurant continues to write its story—one plate at a time.