If you’re in Portland, Maine, and craving Chinese food, Panda Garden is a local favorite. But with a menu that spans dozens of items, from classic lo mein to chef’s specials, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. This guide breaks down the Panda Garden menu, highlights the best dishes, and gives you practical tips to avoid common ordering mistakes. Whether you’re a first-timer or a regular, you’ll leave knowing exactly what to order.
Understanding the Panda Garden Menu Structure
Panda Garden’s menu is divided into clear sections: Appetizers, Soups, Fried Rice, Lo Mein, Chow Mein, Chop Suey, Egg Foo Young, Sweet & Sour, Vegetable Dishes, Chicken Dishes, Beef Dishes, Pork Dishes, Seafood Dishes, and Chef’s Specials. Each section offers multiple choices, but some are more popular than others. For example, the Chef’s Specials (like General Tso’s Chicken or Sesame Beef) are crowd-pleasers because they’re made fresh and have bold flavors. Avoid the “Combo Plates” if you’re hungry—they come with an egg roll and fried rice but often skimp on the main protein. Instead, order a la carte and add a side of pork fried rice for about $2 more.
Must-Try Dishes: Real Customer Favorites
Based on local reviews and our own taste tests, these dishes stand out:
- General Tso’s Chicken – Crispy, not too sweet, with a slight heat. Ask for extra sauce on the side to control the spice.
- Shrimp with Lobster Sauce – The sauce is creamy and savory, loaded with shrimp. Avoid the “Shrimp with Garlic Sauce” if you don’t like heavy garlic.
- Egg Foo Young – A fluffy omelette packed with bean sprouts and pork. Get the gravy on the side to keep it crispy.
- Vegetable Lo Mein – A solid choice for vegetarians. The noodles are chewy and not greasy. Add chicken or beef for extra protein.
One common mistake: ordering “Moo Shu Pork” expecting a wrap. It comes with thin pancakes, but you have to assemble it yourself. If you’re in a hurry, skip it.
How to Order Online for the Best Experience
Ordering online at Panda Garden (via their website or Grubhub) is easy, but there are pitfalls. First, always check the “Special Instructions” box. For example, if you want your General Tso’s extra spicy, write “add chili flakes.” Second, avoid peak hours (Friday 6–8 PM) – your food may sit under a heat lamp. Order for pickup 15 minutes early to get it fresh. Third, don’t forget to add a container of duck sauce and hot mustard; they’re free but often forgotten. Pro tip: The lunch specials (11 AM–3 PM) are a great deal – you get an entree, fried rice, and an egg roll for under $10.
Common Ordering Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Many first-timers make these errors:
- Overordering appetizers – The Crab Rangoon are tasty, but 6 pieces are enough for two people. The egg rolls are large and filling.
- Ignoring the “Spicy” indicator – Panda Garden’s “spicy” dishes are mild by American standards. If you want heat, ask for “extra spicy” or add chili oil at home.
- Choosing combo plates – As mentioned, they’re smaller portions. For the same price, order a la carte and get more food.
- Not checking the menu for dietary restrictions – Most dishes contain soy sauce (gluten). If you’re gluten-free, ask for steamed rice and no soy sauce. The staff is accommodating.
FAQ About Panda Garden in Portland, Maine
Q: Does Panda Garden offer delivery?
A: Yes, through Grubhub and DoorDash. Minimum order of $15 applies.
Q: What are the most popular dishes?
A: General Tso’s Chicken, Sesame Beef, and Shrimp with Lobster Sauce top the list.
Q: Is there a vegetarian menu?
A: Yes, look for “Vegetable Delight” or any dish marked with a “V.” You can also substitute tofu in many dishes.
Q: Can I customize the spice level?
A: Absolutely. Just ask for “mild,” “medium,” or “hot.” They’ll adjust accordingly.
Q: What are the hours?
A: Monday–Saturday 11 AM–9:30 PM, Sunday 12 PM–9 PM. Lunch specials end at 3 PM.
Final Tips for a Great Panda Garden Experience
Before you order, decide if you want dine-in or takeout. Dine-in gives you fresh, hot food, but the seating is limited. Takeout is faster, but check your order before leaving—missing items happen. Also, save leftovers: the portions are generous, and many dishes taste even better the next day. If you’re new, start with the Chef’s Specials—they’re the safest bet. And remember, the staff is friendly; don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations. Enjoy your meal!