Panda Express offers fast, casual dining specializing in American-style Chinese cuisine with health-conscious choices. Guests enjoy quick service, a variety of popular dishes like Orange Chicken and Kung Pao, and convenient options for dine-in, takeout, and delivery.
What to Expect:
🍊 Signature Orange Chicken and classic entrees
🌿 Health-conscious and small plate options
🚗 Dine-in, takeout, delivery, and outdoor seating
👨👩👧 Family-friendly with kids' menu and accessible facilities
Important Information:
Accessible wheelchair entrance, restrooms, and parking available
Free parking in plaza and street parking nearby
Open daily except Thursday; no reservations accepted
Casual dress code, clean environment but focus on fast service
Enjoy a quick, familiar meal with reliable quality in vibrant Santa Barbara.
Haley's Pick 🍽️
You probably know her as @milehighandhungry. Each week, Haley shares the one place she’s obsessed with right now. From hidden gems to hot new openings, if she picks it, it’s worth the hype.
Haley's Review of Riot BBQ
Riot BBQ on South Delaware feels like a backyard cookout run by a Top Chef, because it is. Chef Manny Barella and pitmaster Patrick Klaiber have teamed up to blend Monterrey flavors with Texas-style smoke, and the results are seriously craveable.
The brisket steals the show: tender, deeply smoky, and finished with Barella’s bold spice rub. Get it solo or wrapped in buttery Raquelita tortillas. The pulled pork brings heat with ancho, guajillo, and morita chiles, and the al pastor ribs are sticky, sweet, and slightly charred in all the right ways.
Even the sides are insanely good! Think crunchy pepita-macha slaw and banana pudding served in a jar that tastes just like childhood (but better). Every bite feels intentional.
It’s barbecue with heart, history, and just the right amount of heat. Riot BBQ isn’t just a meal, it’s a moment worth lining up for.
– Haley @milehighandhungry
📍 Local Insights
🍊 Popular Orange Chicken: The Orange Chicken is a fan-favorite—order early to avoid reduced freshness late in the day.
🕰 Best Off-Peak Times: Late mornings before lunch rush and mid-afternoon offer quicker service and less crowded seating.
🚗 Parking Ease: Free parking in La Cumbre Plaza and nearby streets makes visiting hassle-free.
👨👩👧 Family Friendly Options: The kids’ menu and high chairs ensure a comfortable experience for families dining with children.
Review Sentiment
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Based on the 50 most recent Google reviews
Panda Express is praised for convenient and fast American Chinese food with good portion sizes and popular items like Orange Chicken. Guests appreciate the clean facilities and family-friendly atmosphere, but some highlight inconsistent food quality, occasional poor service, and concerns about freshness at busy times.
Last updated on
January 9th, 2026
From The preserve
Standout Dishes
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The Selection
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Angler’s Offerings
What You'll Find
Orange Chicken, Kung Pao Chicken, Teriyaki Chicken, Chow Mein, Fried Rice, Honey Walnut Shrimp, Beijing Beef, Spring Rolls, Fortune Cookies, Rice Bowls, Combo Plates
Accessibility
Wheelchair accessible entrance, parking lot, restroom, and seating available. The location provides accommodations ensuring accessibility for guests with mobility needs.
