Panda Express Introduce
The culinary landscape of Phoenix, Arizona, embraces a wide spectrum of dining options, and for those seeking a quick, familiar, and flavor-packed American-Chinese meal, the Panda Express on East Thomas Road is a perennial favorite. This location serves as a go-to spot for locals, college students, and families looking for comfort food with rapid service. Panda Express is well-known for pioneering the fast-casual American-Chinese concept, offering a steam-table display of fresh entrees and sides that allows customers to build their perfect meal quickly.
The menu is designed for flexibility and value, featuring iconic dishes that have become staples in the American diet, such as the globally recognized Original Orange Chicken. Whether you are grabbing a solo dinner, fueling up during a busy workday lunch, or providing a meal for a large group, Panda Express provides customizable options to fit any appetite and budget. The dining experience is casual and straightforward, catering to a dynamic, on-the-move crowd while still providing a comfortable spot for a seated meal. The focus remains on delivering bold, satisfying flavors in a swift and efficient manner, making it a reliable choice in the local Phoenix fast-casual scene.
The atmosphere is typically described as casual and family-friendly, welcoming guests of all ages, and it is a popular destination for tourists exploring the area as well as local groups. It’s important for local users to note that due to its popularity, especially during peak meal times, the location is known to occasionally experience a wait, highlighting its high demand for quick service and popular dishes.
The Panda Express location is strategically situated on a major corridor in Phoenix, offering excellent access to residents in the surrounding neighborhoods and those commuting through the central part of the city. The precise address for this convenient dining spot is:
3923 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA.
As a modern, high-volume establishment, this Panda Express location places a strong emphasis on accessibility and convenience for all patrons. This includes robust amenities designed to accommodate individuals with mobility needs, making it a comfortable and welcoming place for the entire community. Key accessibility features include:
- Wheelchair accessible entrance for easy access to the restaurant interior.
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot with designated spots close to the entrance.
- Wheelchair accessible restroom facilities.
- Wheelchair accessible seating options within the dining area.
Parking is readily available, offering a free parking lot on-site, which significantly eases the experience for drivers looking to quickly grab their meal. Additional free street parking is also typically available nearby, providing multiple options for convenience.
To serve the diverse needs of the busy Arizona populace, Panda Express on East Thomas Road provides a comprehensive suite of dining and convenience services. These options ensure that guests can enjoy their American-Chinese favorites however they choose, whether on-site or at home.
- Dine-in: Guests can enjoy their meal in the casual, well-lit seating area, perfect for a quick break or a relaxed meal with friends and family.
- Takeout: Speedy counter service allows for efficient takeaway orders, ideal for those on a tight schedule or heading home after work.
- Delivery: Partnered with various delivery services, the restaurant offers the convenience of having your meal brought directly to your location.
- Catering: Large-scale meal solutions are available, perfect for office events, parties, or family gatherings, accommodating group sizes with Family Feasts and party trays.
- Kids' Menu and Amenities: A menu specifically designed for children is offered, alongside amenities like high chairs to cater to families with young kids.
- Payment Flexibility: Accepts major Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and NFC Mobile Payments, ensuring a quick and modern checkout experience.
Panda Express’s enduring popularity stems from its commitment to offering a variety of familiar and appealing dishes that are both comforting and served quickly. The menu structure is built around customization, allowing guests to control their meal's side and entree choices across different sizes.
- Customizable Meal Sizes: Choose from the 'Bowl' (1 Side, 1 Entree), the 'Plate' (1 Side, 2 Entrees), or the 'Bigger Plate' (1 Side, 3 Entrees), ensuring a perfect portion size for any appetite.
- Signature Entrees: The restaurant’s main draw includes crowd-pleasers such as The Original Orange Chicken, a sweet and spicy crispy chicken dish, and other popular choices like Black Pepper Angus Steak (available for a small upcharge), Beijing Beef, and Honey Sesame Chicken Breast.
- Flexible Sides: Customize the base of your meal by choosing from staples like Chow Mein, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice, or the healthier option of Super Greens. Guests can mix and match with half or full portions of sides.
- Family-Sized Options: The 'Family Feast' is a highly valued option for Phoenix families, offering multiple large sides and entrees to feed a group easily and economically.
- Appetizer Favorites: Enhance your meal with popular small plates such as the savory Veggie Spring Rolls or the sweet and creamy Cream Cheese Rangoons.
- Emphasis on Freshness: The open steam-table display is a highlight, allowing guests to view the fresh preparation and quality of the entrees before making their selection.
To place an order for pick-up, confirm current offerings, or inquire about catering services for your next Phoenix event, you can easily contact the East Thomas Road location using the details provided below.
- Address: 3923 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
- Phone: (602) 306-2300
- Mobile Phone: +1 602-306-2300
- Service Type: Chinese Restaurant (Fast Casual American-Chinese)
Choosing Panda Express on East Thomas Road is an excellent decision for Phoenix locals who prioritize speed, familiarity, and a high degree of menu customization. The real value lies in its ability to cater efficiently to various needs—from a solo, budget-friendly meal via the 'Bowl' to a complete family dinner with the 'Family Feast.' The legendary Orange Chicken is undoubtedly a must-try for new patrons, but the flexibility of combining half and half sides (like Chow Mein and Fried Rice) and mixing different entrees allows for endless variety.
It is important to acknowledge that, like any high-volume fast-casual venue, service quality and order accuracy, particularly with online and mobile orders, can occasionally be inconsistent, as noted in customer feedback. However, for a quick, comfort-food fix, the restaurant's commitment to preparing food that is generally hot and fresh—as highlighted by positive diner experiences—makes it a reliable part of the local dining rotation. For busy Phoenix residents looking for a satisfying meal of American-Chinese classics served with exceptional speed, the convenience, value, and celebrated flavor profile of Panda Express make it a consistently popular choice. The ease of access, ample parking, and family-friendly environment further solidify its position as a top quick-service option in the area.
Panda Express Menu
Plate
- Build Your Own Plate - 2 Half Sides $9.80
Choose any 2 half sides and 2 entrees. Choose a first half side: Half Super Greens, Half Chow Mein, Half White Steamed Rice, Half Fried Rice, Half Brown Steamed Rice. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Build Your Own Plate - 1 Full Side $9.80
Choose any 1 full side and 2 entrees. Choose a full side: Super Greens, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice, Chow Mein. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken, Beijing Beef
Bigger Plate
- Build Your Own Bigger Plate - 2 Half Sides $11.60
Choose any 2 half sides and 3 entrees. Choose a first half side: Half Super Greens, Half Chow Mein, Half White Steamed Rice, Half Fried Rice, Half Brown Steamed Rice. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
- Build Your Own Bigger Plate - 1 Full Side $11.60
Choose any 1 full side and 3 entrees. Choose a full side: Super Greens, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice, Chow Mein. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Kung Pao Chicken, Grilled Teriyaki Chicken
Bowl
- Build Your Own Bowl - 2 Half Sides $8.00
Choose any 2 half sides and 1 entree. Choose a first half side: Half Super Greens, Half Chow Mein, Half White Steamed Rice, Half Fried Rice, Half Brown Steamed Rice. Choose an entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Chicken Egg Roll, Mushroom Chicken
- Build Your Own Bowl - 1 Full Side $8.00
Choose any 1 full side and 1 entree. Choose a full side: Super Greens, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice, Chow Mein. Choose an entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$1.50, Super Greens, Chicken Egg Roll, Mushroom Chicken
Family Feast
Choose a first half side: Half Super Greens, Half Chow Mein, Half White Steamed Rice, Half Fried Rice, Half Brown Steamed Rice. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$4.55, Super Greens, Beijing Beef, Chicken Egg Roll, Veggie Spring Roll
- Family Feast - 4 Half Sides $43.45
Choose any 4 large half sides and 3 large entrees
- Family Feast - 2 Full Sides $43.45
Choose any 2 large full sides and 3 large entrees. Choose a full side: Super Greens, Fried Rice, White Steamed Rice, Brown Steamed Rice, Chow Mein. Choose a first entree: Honey Sesame Chicken Breast, Black Pepper Angus Steak +$4.55, Super Greens, Beijing Beef, Chicken Egg Roll
Appetizers
- Veggie Spring Rolls (2)
Veggie Spring Rolls are prepared with a mixture of cabbage, celery, carrots, green onions and Chinese noodles wrapped in a thin wonton wrapper and cooked to a golden brown
- Cream Cheese Rangoons (3)
Cream Cheese Rangoons are prepared with a crisp wonton wrapper filled with a mixture of soft cream cheese and green onions, served with a side of sweet and sour sauce for dipping
Panda Express Details
Service options
- Delivery
- Takeout
- Dine-in
Popular for
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Solo dining
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
- Wheelchair accessible seating
Offerings
- Comfort food
- Quick bite
- Small plates
Dining options
- Lunch
- Dinner
- Catering
- Seating
- Table service
Amenities
- Restroom
Atmosphere
- Casual
Crowd
- College students
- Family-friendly
- Groups
- Tourists
Planning
- Usually a wait
- Accepts reservations
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Good for kids
- High chairs
- Kids' menu
Parking
- Free parking lot
- Free street parking
- Parking
Panda Express Photos










Panda Express Location
Panda Express
3923 E Thomas Rd, Phoenix, AZ 85018, USA
Panda Express Reviews
orange chickencashierentreechow meinbroccoliwalnutdrive thrureceiptteriyaki saucerude
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1Had the wok fried shrimp, honey walnut shrimp, and Kung po chicken. Half and half on the rice and lo mein. The food was was hot and fresh. Great and fast service. Always believe in the fortune cookie 88.
July 04 · Jerrod BonacciWarning DO NOT order online. The staff could not even get my orders right. 30 minutes after placing my order I got a text saying “order was ready” and after waiting an additional 15 minutes, they let it sit there while they were completing other orders without letting me know my full order was ready. That was 45 minutes after I placed my online order.This location seems like all kids working with no proper management. I ordered 3 big plates, whoever fulfilled my order needs to find another job. The picture attached is what we got for our 3rd entree (in a small box) in one of our 3 big plate meals, it was not even filled to the top.
June 29 · Cole RCPlaced an online order for myself and when I went to pick it up they informed me they didn’t have my cream cheese rangoons. I took that in stride I understand if you are an hour within close you might be out of some things. Didn’t love that I have to call some support number to get the refund but then I get home and find that’s far from the only problem here. For $26 the order should have been at least somewhat correct! You gave me kung pao in my plate but none of the orange chicken I ordered and the bowl which clearly says wok fired shrimp has kung pao in it. Do better guys this is pure incompetence and laziness. Will be getting a full refund from the support number and will not be returning to this location as they seem to lack any will to care.
June 23 · James Rizzo**** Manager was listening and taking care of the customer needs - dish that I like wasn't available at the time he had the cook make it fresh. Super busy night but, staff was still smiling and moving the line quickly. 9/27 8:00pm* Very disappointed from the visit last night.. what a difference it makes when the manager cares for their customers and hands on helping the staff.. but, not this time.. after paying my bill I waited 20 minutes for the cook to make my dish while my rice and cheese rangoons getting cold in the same box on the back counter waiting. Finally, when my dish was ready set in the back counter I had to tell the server to please complete my order. She put one side dish in the box and handed to me, i show her my receipt and told her I paid for two side dish plate. She fixed the plate with attitude. I had my 8 yrs old grandson with me waiting and that time his food got cold waiting also. Poor service and quality not happy visit. 10/2 7:30pm
October 03 · Bahar PerryI only order here because I'm hungry and love Panda but to pay money at prices these days and NOT GET MY FULL PORTION really socks. Do better 40th street Panda!
September 26 · Joshua Martin
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