Mandarin Express

Mandarin Express is a Chinese restaurant located within Crabtree Valley Mall at 4325 Glenwood Ave in Raleigh, North Carolina. Operating under the platform category of Chinese Restaurant, Mandarin Express has recently transitioned and is now known as Pei Wei Express. This introduction aims to provide local users with a detailed overview of what to expect based on recent customer feedback, keeping in mind this significant change in branding and potentially operational structure.

One enthusiastic review describes Mandarin Express as the "best fast food at Crabtree mall," indicating its定位 within the food court or a similar fast-service setting within the mall. The reviewer, a frequent patron with their fiancé, speaks highly of the establishment and specifically recommends the sesame chicken, bourbon chicken, and orange chicken as their go-to favorites. This suggests that these particular dishes are popular and well-regarded by at least one segment of their customer base. The positive sentiment extends to the owner, who is described as "phenomenal," highlighting a potential strength in customer interaction and management.

However, another recent review notes the name change to Pei Wei Express and expresses initial hesitation due to a past negative experience with a Pei Wei location over a decade prior. This indicates that while the physical location might be the same as the former Mandarin Express, the operational standards, menu, and potentially even some of the staff might have been influenced by the Pei Wei brand. The reviewer observed that the setup of Pei Wei Express appears to be similar to other fast-food Chinese chains like Panda Express, suggesting a cafeteria-style service where customers can select items from a displayed range of dishes.

In terms of food, this reviewer opted for a 2-item combo, choosing fried rice, Thai coconut chicken, and Mongolian chicken. They reported that everything tasted "as expected," which could be interpreted as meeting a baseline level of satisfaction for typical fast-food Chinese cuisine. This suggests that while not exceptional, the food was palatable and aligned with general expectations for such establishments. The affordability of the meal was also highlighted, with the 2-item combo costing $10.66. This price point likely contributes to its appeal as a convenient and budget-friendly option within the mall's dining choices.

The reviewer did express one specific disappointment with the hot mustard, noting that it "just wasn't good." This is a minor point but indicates that certain condiments or side items might not meet all customers' preferences. Despite this, the overall experience was positive enough for the reviewer to state that they "would go back," suggesting that the convenience, price, and general taste of the food outweighed the minor drawbacks.

Considering these two recent reviews, Mandarin Express, now Pei Wei Express, seems to function as a fast-food style Chinese restaurant within Crabtree Valley Mall. Its environment is likely that of a typical food court or quick-service eatery, focused on efficiency and convenience for shoppers. The service, at least in the past under the Mandarin Express name, has been praised for the owner's positive interactions. Under the new branding, the service seems to be adequate, facilitating a quick and easy ordering process.

A key feature of this establishment is its fast-food model, catering to shoppers looking for a quick and affordable meal. The availability of combo meals, as mentioned by one reviewer, is typical of such setups, allowing customers to sample a variety of dishes at a set price. The recommendations for sesame chicken, bourbon chicken, and orange chicken suggest that these are signature or popular items that might be worth trying. The subsequent reviewer's choice of Thai coconut chicken and Mongolian chicken indicates a broader range of options is also available.

Given the transition to Pei Wei Express, it is reasonable to assume that the menu might have been updated or standardized to align with Pei Wei's offerings. Local users familiar with Pei Wei from other locations might have a general idea of what to expect. For those unfamiliar, it typically involves a selection of wok-cooked dishes, rice and noodle options, and various appetizers and sides, all served in a quick-service format.

Currently, no specific promotional information for Mandarin Express (or Pei Wei Express at this location) is available in the provided text. Mall food court establishments often have their own limited-time offers or daily specials, which might be advertised at the location itself. Local users interested in any promotions or the most up-to-date menu should visit the restaurant within Crabtree Valley Mall or contact them directly at the provided phone numbers: (919) 787-7127 or +1 919-787-7127. It's also possible that Pei Wei Express might have a national website or social media presence where promotions are advertised, although this would need to be verified separately.

In conclusion, Mandarin Express, now operating as Pei Wei Express within Crabtree Valley Mall in Raleigh, offers a fast-food style Chinese dining experience. It appears to be a convenient and affordable option for shoppers looking for a quick meal. While one long-time patron under the former name highly recommends specific dishes like sesame, bourbon, and orange chicken and praises the owner, a more recent experience under the Pei Wei branding suggests a standard fast-food quality with some dishes meeting expectations while others, like the hot mustard, might fall short for some. The transition to Pei Wei Express likely brings a standardized menu and operational style associated with that brand. Local users seeking a quick and affordable Chinese meal while at Crabtree Mall might find Pei Wei Express a suitable option, keeping in mind it operates within the fast-food paradigm.