#20: Panda Express

In 1973, Chinese immigrants Andrew and Ming Tsai Cherng introduced authentic Chinese flavors to Pasadena, California, with the opening of Panda Inn. Their sit-down restaurant quickly became a local favorite, but a new opportunity emerged in 1983 when the Glendale Galleria invited them to bring their dishes to the fast-food scene.

Thus, Panda Express was born, offering bold, flavorful Chinese cuisine in a quick-service format. What started as a family-run restaurant soon became a nationwide sensation, proving that quality ingredients and time-honored recipes could thrive in the fast-paced world of mall dining and beyond.