Panda Express
$ • Fast Food, Chinese
Hours:
2121 Mission St, Santa Cruz
(831) 466-0816
About Panda Express
Customers' Favorites
Panda Express Reviews
Ratings
Menu
Hours
| Monday | 10AM - 10PM |
| Tuesday | 10AM - 10PM |
| Wednesday | 10AM - 10PM |
| Thursday | 10AM - 10PM |
| Friday | 9:30AM - 10PM |
| Saturday | 10:30AM - 9:30PM |
| Sunday | 10:30AM - 9:30PM |
Panda Express offers budget-friendly meals, but some dishes fall short. The orange chicken lacks spice and can be tough, while the fried rice is more steamed than fried. Despite this, the staff is friendly and the food is fresh. A highlight is the sweetfire chicken, a must-try dish according to one reviewer. The location near Safeway is convenient, with quick service and a clean environment. While some items like the beef broccoli are praised for their flavor, other dishes like the orange chicken leave more to be desired. The restaurant is also situated close to Highway 1 and UCSC, making it perfect for students or those needing a quick bite before traveling north. Customers say the food is always good, and prices are typical of Panda Express locations. The staff are friendly, and parking is ample. However, online ordering can lead to long wait times, even when the food is marked ready, which can be frustrating. One customer enjoyed the Walnut Shrimp, despite it being a little stale, and found service quick at 7 PM, although they were disappointed not to receive a fortune cookie. Overall, Panda Express remains a decent option for a quick meal, though some experiences indicate room for improvement in timing and consistency.