Knowing what you’ll spend before you order makes your Panda Express visit much smoother. The Panda Express menu prices are straightforward, but they can vary slightly by location and time of day. This guide breaks down every cost, combo, and value option so you can plan your meal without surprises.
Panda Express is a popular fast-food chain known for its American-Chinese cuisine. Their menu focuses on entrees, sides, and combos. Prices are generally affordable, making it a go-to for lunch or dinner.
Let’s look at the current pricing structure. Keep in mind that these are average prices. Your local store may have small differences due to regional costs or promotions.
Panda Express Menu Prices Overview
Panda Express menu prices are divided into a few main categories. You have individual entrees, sides, and combo meals. The combos offer the best value for most customers.
Here is a quick look at the typical price ranges:
- Individual Entrees: $4.50 – $6.50
- Sides (Rice, Chow Mein, Veggies): $2.50 – $4.00
- Combo Meals: $7.00 – $10.00
- Family Meals: $20.00 – $35.00
- Kids Meals: $5.00 – $6.00
- Drinks: $2.00 – $3.00
These prices can shift during peak hours or at airport locations. Always check the board at your store for exact numbers.
Individual Entree Prices
If you want just one item, you can order an individual entree. This is a single serving of your chosen dish. It comes with a side of rice or chow mein if you ask, but that’s often extra.
Popular entrees include:
- Orange Chicken: $5.50
- Beijing Beef: $6.00
- Kung Pao Chicken: $5.50
- Broccoli Beef: $5.50
- Honey Walnut Shrimp: $6.50
- Teriyaki Chicken: $5.00
- Mushroom Chicken: $5.00
- SweetFire Chicken Breast: $5.50
- Black Pepper Angus Steak: $6.50
These prices are for the entree only. You will need to add a side separately if you want a full meal.
Side Dish Prices
Sides are the base of your meal. You can choose from several options. The most common are fried rice, chow mein, and steamed rice.
- Fried Rice: $3.50
- Chow Mein: $3.50
- Steamed Rice: $2.50
- Super Greens: $3.00
- White Steamed Rice: $2.50
- Brown Steamed Rice: $2.50
Super Greens are a healthier option. They are a mix of broccoli, kale, and cabbage. They cost a bit more than regular rice.
Combo Meal Prices
Combo meals are the most popular way to order. They combine entrees and a side for a single price. You get more food for less money compared to buying separately.
There are three main combo sizes:
- Plate: One entree and one side. Price: $7.50 – $8.50
- Bigger Plate: Two entrees and one side. Price: $8.50 – $9.50
- Family Meal: Three large entrees and two large sides. Price: $25.00 – $35.00
The Plate is good for a light lunch. The Bigger Plate is perfect for a hearty dinner. The Family Meal feeds three to four people.
For example, a Bigger Plate with Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef plus fried rice costs about $9.00. That is a great deal for two proteins.
Kids Meal Prices
Kids meals are designed for children under 12. They come with a smaller portion of an entree, a side, a drink, and a toy or treat.
- Kids Meal: $5.50 – $6.00
Entree options for kids include:
- Orange Chicken
- Chicken Teriyaki
- Broccoli Beef
Side options are usually steamed rice or chow mein. The drink is a small soda or water.
Appetizer And Drink Prices
Panda Express also sells appetizers and drinks. These are add-ons to your meal.
- Chicken Egg Roll (2 pieces): $2.50
- Veggie Spring Roll (2 pieces): $2.00
- Cream Cheese Rangoon (4 pieces): $3.00
- Chicken Potstickers (5 pieces): $3.50
- Fortune Cookies: $0.50 each
- Soft Drinks: $2.00 – $2.50
- Bottled Water: $1.50
- Iced Tea: $2.00
- Orange Juice: $2.50
These prices can add up quickly. If you want a full meal, stick with a combo.
Family Meal Prices
Family meals are for groups. They offer the best per-person value. You get three large entrees and two large sides.
Typical family meal prices:
- Family Meal (3 entrees, 2 sides): $25.00 – $35.00
- Family Meal with appetizers: $30.00 – $40.00
This feeds about four people. It is a good option for parties or busy weeknights.
Panda Express Menu Prices By Location
Prices are not the same everywhere. Stores in high-cost areas like New York or California charge more. Stores in smaller towns may be cheaper.
Here are some examples:
- New York City: Plate $8.50, Bigger Plate $9.50
- Los Angeles: Plate $8.00, Bigger Plate $9.00
- Chicago: Plate $7.50, Bigger Plate $8.50
- Houston: Plate $7.00, Bigger Plate $8.00
Airport and mall locations also have higher prices. You might pay $1.00 to $2.00 more at these places.
How To Save Money On Panda Express Menu Prices
You can lower your bill with a few simple tricks. Here are some tips:
- Order a Plate instead of two separate items. A Plate with one entree and one side is cheaper than buying them separately.
- Skip the drinks. Water is free. Soda adds $2.00 to your meal.
- Use the app. Panda Express has a rewards program. You earn points for free food.
- Look for coupons. Check online or in mailers for BOGO deals.
- Share a Family Meal. If you are with friends, split the cost. It is cheaper per person.
- Avoid appetizers. They are tasty but not necessary. Stick to the main meal.
These steps can save you $2.00 to $5.00 per visit.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Catering
If you are feeding a large group, catering is an option. Panda Express offers catering trays.
- Small Tray (serves 4-6): $30.00 – $40.00
- Large Tray (serves 8-12): $50.00 – $70.00
You can choose from popular entrees like Orange Chicken and Fried Rice. Catering orders need to be placed 24 hours in advance.
Panda Express Menu Prices Vs Competitors
How does Panda Express compare to other fast-food chains? Here is a quick comparison:
- Panda Express: Plate $7.50 – $8.50
- Pei Wei: Bowl $9.00 – $11.00
- PF Chang’s: Lunch combo $12.00 – $15.00
- Local Chinese takeout: Combo $8.00 – $12.00
Panda Express is generally cheaper than sit-down restaurants. It is similar in price to other fast-food chains.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Dietary Needs
If you have dietary restrictions, some items are better than others. Panda Express offers nutritional info online.
For low-calorie options:
- Super Greens side: 90 calories
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken: 300 calories
- Broccoli Beef: 150 calories
For gluten-free options (check with your store):
- Steamed Rice
- Super Greens
- Grilled Teriyaki Chicken (no sauce)
For vegetarian options:
- Eggplant Tofu (if available)
- Super Greens
- Fried Rice (contains egg)
Always ask the staff about ingredients if you have allergies.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Delivery
Delivery prices are higher than in-store. Apps like DoorDash, Uber Eats, and Grubhub add fees.
Typical delivery costs:
- Plate: $9.00 – $11.00 (after fees)
- Bigger Plate: $10.00 – $12.00
- Family Meal: $30.00 – $40.00
Delivery fees are usually $2.00 to $5.00. Tips are extra. Ordering directly from the Panda Express app may have lower fees.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Breakfast
Panda Express does not serve breakfast. Most locations open at 10:30 AM or 11:00 AM. Lunch and dinner are the only meal times.
Some stores have limited hours on weekends. Check your local store’s schedule.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Holidays
Holiday prices are usually the same as regular prices. However, some stores may have special promotions. For example, a free entree with purchase on Chinese New Year.
Thanksgiving and Christmas hours may be reduced. Call ahead to confirm.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Students
Some locations offer student discounts. You need a valid student ID. The discount is usually 10% off your order.
Not all stores participate. Ask at the counter if they have a student deal.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Military
Military discounts are available at some locations. Show your military ID. The discount is often 10% off.
Again, this varies by store. It is worth asking.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Seniors
Senior discounts are rare at Panda Express. Some stores may offer a small discount for customers over 65. Check with your local store.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Large Orders
If you are ordering for a group, call ahead. Large orders may qualify for a discount. You can also use the catering menu.
For orders over $50, some stores offer free delivery. Ask about this when you call.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Customization
You can customize your meal. For example, ask for extra sauce or no sauce. This does not usually change the price.
Adding extra protein costs extra. For example, adding a third entree to a Bigger Plate costs $2.00 to $3.00 more.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Online Orders
Online orders through the Panda Express website or app have the same prices as in-store. You can pay with a credit card or gift card.
Some online orders have a small service fee. This is usually $0.50 to $1.00.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Gift Cards
Gift cards are available in any amount. They can be used at any location. You can buy them online or in-store.
There is no fee for gift cards. They are a good way to budget your spending.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Loyalty Program
The Panda Rewards program is free to join. You earn 10 points for every dollar spent. When you reach 150 points, you get a free entree.
You also get a free birthday reward. This is usually a free entree or side.
Joining the program is a good way to save over time.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Limited Time Offers
Panda Express often has limited time items. These are seasonal or promotional dishes. They usually cost the same as regular entrees.
Examples include:
- Firecracker Chicken
- Honey Walnut Shrimp (sometimes limited)
- Black Pepper Chicken
These items may be slightly more expensive if they use premium ingredients.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Value Menu
Panda Express does not have a dedicated value menu. However, the Plate combo is the cheapest option for a full meal.
Some stores have a “Mini Meal” option. This is a smaller portion for around $5.00. Check if your store offers this.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Kids Vs Adults
Kids meals are cheaper than adult meals. But the portions are smaller. If you have a small appetite, a kids meal might be enough.
Adults can order kids meals, but some stores may limit it to children under 12.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Drinks
Drinks are not included in combo meals. You have to buy them separately. Water is free if you ask for a cup.
Soda prices are standard for fast food. A large soda costs about $2.50.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Desserts
Panda Express has limited dessert options. The main one is fortune cookies. They are very cheap, around $0.50 each.
Some stores sell chocolate chip cookies. These cost about $1.00 each.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Sauces
Sauces are free with your meal. You can ask for as many as you want. Common sauces include:
- Sweet Chili
- Soy Sauce
- Hot Mustard
- Plum Sauce
- Chili Sauce
If you want extra sauce packets for later, they are usually free.
Panda Express Menu Prices For To-Go Orders
To-go orders have the same prices as dine-in. You do not pay extra for packaging. However, you may want to tip if you order for pickup.
To-go orders are a good way to avoid delivery fees.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Dine-In
Dine-in prices are the same as to-go. You get a tray and eat in the restaurant. There is no service charge.
Some locations have self-service drink stations. You can refill your soda for free.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Drive-Thru
Drive-thru prices are the same as in-store. You can order from your car. It is convenient for quick meals.
Drive-thru wait times can be long during peak hours. Plan accordingly.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Catering Events
For large events, you can order catering trays. Prices start at $30.00 for a small tray. You need to order at least 24 hours in advance.
Catering is a good option for office lunches or parties.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Special Occasions
Panda Express does not have special occasion pricing. Birthdays and holidays are the same as regular days. Use the rewards program for birthday freebies.
Panda Express Menu Prices For Allergens
If you have allergies, check the allergen menu online. Some items contain soy, gluten, or dairy. The staff can help you choose safe options.
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