Panda Express

Panda Express, a well-recognized name in the Chinese Restaurant category, has a location situated at 13465 Camino Canada #103 in El Cajon, CA. While generally known for its quick-service American Chinese cuisine, recent feedback from local customers regarding this specific branch raises some concerns that potential diners may want to consider.

One customer reported an experience where, despite encountering nice employees, the serving portions were perceived as stingy. This individual specifically ordered the honey walnut shrimp and felt they received what appeared to be the "remnants" of the dish. They paid $21 for a cub meal and a bowl, and the shrimp they received was described as barely there, falling apart, and tasting old. This feedback points to potential issues with both portion control and the freshness and quality of certain menu items, which can significantly impact the value and enjoyment of the meal for customers.

Another local reviewer expressed a strong negative sentiment about their recent experiences at this Panda Express location, stating that while it "use to be good," the quality has drastically declined in the past month. A key complaint was the observation of "half empty containers," suggesting that the amount of food being served, even for standard menu items, might be significantly less than expected. This perception of reduced portions is further exacerbated by the reviewer's feeling that the food is "way too expensive" for the quantity received. They specifically mentioned that their order, consisting of rice/chow mein, orange chicken, and broccoli beef, weighed less than a pound (15.6 oz) and cost approximately $12, which they deemed "insane." This detailed feedback underscores a significant concern regarding the value proposition offered at this particular location.

The same dissatisfied customer went on to express their intention to avoid this Panda Express for at least six months, and would completely stop eating there if the situation does not improve. This strong statement highlights the severity of their negative experience and suggests that the issues they encountered are not minor or easily overlooked. It indicates a significant drop in the standards they previously associated with this establishment.

Considering these recent reviews, it appears that local users considering dining at or ordering from the Panda Express on Camino Canada in El Cajon should be aware of potential issues related to serving sizes and food quality. The feedback suggests that portions might be smaller than expected, and there are concerns about the freshness and taste of certain items, such as the honey walnut shrimp. The perceived high cost relative to the quantity and quality of food received is also a significant point of concern for at least one recent customer.

While Panda Express as a brand typically offers a range of popular American Chinese dishes, including their signature orange chicken, various chow mein and fried rice options, and other entrees, the local experience at this specific El Cajon location seems to be currently marred by issues that are negatively impacting customer satisfaction. The positive mention of friendly employees by one reviewer is a silver lining, but it does not outweigh the significant concerns raised about the food itself.

For local residents in the 92021 zip code of El Cajon, these recent experiences suggest a potential decline in the quality and value offered at this particular Panda Express. While individual experiences can vary, the consistency of the negative feedback regarding stingy portions and subpar food quality, particularly the honey walnut shrimp, warrants caution. It might be prudent for potential customers to consider these recent reviews when making their dining decisions and perhaps explore other options within the Chinese Restaurant category in the area to ensure a more satisfactory meal experience.

In conclusion, the recent feedback for the Panda Express located on Camino Canada in El Cajon, CA, paints a concerning picture regarding portion sizes and food quality. Local users might want to weigh these recent experiences against their own expectations and consider whether the potential for smaller servings and issues with food freshness aligns with their dining preferences. The hope expressed by one reviewer for improvement in the coming months suggests that the situation might be subject to change, but as of the latest feedback, caution appears to be warranted.