Known for its classic Orange Chicken and more, a popular fast-casual Asian restaurant is opening its latest Northeast Florida restaurant in St. Augustine.
Panda Express debuts Tuesday, Oct. 27 at 3337 International Golf Parkway, in Bailey's Plaza — an outparcel of World Commerce Center off of Interstate 95.
The free-standing restaurant featuring double drive-thru lanes is the third in St. Johns County, joining Panda Express locations at 1934 U.S. 1 S. in St. Augustine and 575 Beachwalk Shore Drive in Saint Johns, according to Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation online records.
"Our entire Panda team is grateful to be joining the St. Augustine community while providing new jobs and supporting local organizations through various
fundraising opportunities," Jose Alvarenga, Panda Express area coach of operations, said in a news release announcing the opening. "We hope to be a lasting part of the community and welcome all guests into our doors to try our American Chinese favorites and discover their own."
Panda Express lists 146 restaurant throughout Florida including at least 11 in Jacksonville, two in Clay County and one in Nassau County, the company's website shows.
Iconic Chinese-American cuisine
The Rosemead, Calif-based restaurant chain offers customer favorities including the original Orange Chicken as well as a spicy version, Broccoli Beef and award-winning Honey Walnut Shrimp.
Other popular dishes include bowls featuring Cantonese BBQ Brisket, Mushroom Chicken, Beijing Beef, Super Greens and Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. Classic offerings include fried rice, egg rolls and chow mein, the online menu shows.
Family-owned and operated since 1983, Panda Express is the largest Asian dining concept in the United States. Panda Express is led by co-founders and co-CEOs Andrew and Peggy Cherng
The brand has more than 2,500 locations and has introduced American Chinese cuisine to 11 international countries, according to the news release.
Construction of the 2,614-square-foot St. Augustine restaurant was estimated at $1 million, according to a March 11 St. Johns County building permit.
Panda Express is open from 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Saturday and 10:30 a.m. to 9:30 p.m. Sunday.
Teresa Stepzinski is the dining reporter for the Times-Union. Follow her on X, formerly known as Twitter, @TeresaStepz or reach her via email at tstepzinski@jacksonville.com.
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This article originally appeared on Florida Times-Union: Panda Express opens new restaurant at World Commerce Center
