Panda Express — Restaurant in California

We go to a class in Elk Grove and often stop here for dinner before our one-hour drive home. They close at 9:30PM yet when we arrive about 8:30PM, just about every dish on display is empty. They try to get you to order from those, but they're never what we want and they actually look kind of dried out and nasty. They end up having to make everything up fresh for us, and all of the other people also showing up for dinner. That's great for all of us because our food is hot and fresh, but it's clear they're trying to close up early. I understand about food waste, but come on now! This has happened about 6 times over the past year; every time we have gone in. There are always at least 10-15 more people that come in after us so I don't understand why they keep doing this. I've heard people say "don't bother to cook something, I'll pick from what's still here" which is unfortunate.

Last time in, we tried to sit down at a table and were told we couldn't because someone had already cleaned that section; they were now mopping the floor too! The table we chose was the one directly opposite the cash register. They also had pulled both of the tea containers so you could only choose soft drinks.

Once we get the food though, it's amazing as usual! Just wish they'd stop trying to close up early and making everyone uncomfortable. Yet we keep...

the portions were small and I was told I had to wait several minutes for food (even though they had plenty in stock) but because the food was for a phone order. I was on my 30 minute lunch break ordering for myself and my coworker. the drive to this location and back to my place of work was almost my lunch break. but to be told to wait several minutes when they were told I am on a time limit due to a lunch break was completely a slap in the face. I feel they didn't appreciate my service and I WILL NOT be back nor recommend this location (unless according to the employee *IF YOU CALL IN) Seems they take care or their phone orders better than the ones who come in and spend their hard earned money at their location. I will take my money somewhere else who values me...

I am a panda express lover and my mom and I often schedule our lunch dates and our lunch appts with customers at panda. Our usual panda has been super disappointing lately and we decided to stop at this one which was close by. We were so excited to see a familiar face from our usual spot. The food was just as amazing and fresh as it used to be where we used to go, and the employees were so polite. We will be going here from now on. Vanessa was super sweet and even recognized us when she saw us, it made us feel so appreciated. I will be going here...