Panda Express — Restaurant in Oʻahu

We went to this location on our way home tonight. Came in about 8:15pm and they close at 9pm. The store was very clean. The selection of sides were not as large as going during a normal time (which I expected bc of the time). The employee, Carmen (I believe she’s a manager) asked if we wanted samples, gave them to the kids and also let us know that fried rice was currently being made. She then asked if we were ready to order. A few dishes we normally order was empty on the line and Carmen asked how many orders of that food (string bean chicken and super greens) we wanted and had the cook make the appropriate amount. I did not expect this at all! I’ve never experienced such great customer service from any panda location! I have had the employees at a few other locations tell me that whatever was out on the line was all that would be served (even if it looked like It has been sitting for a while and I accepted it and understood because they were close to closing time). But not here! They were friendly and had excellent customer service. My son even mentioned that their fried rice is good and has lots of flavor. We normally go to the mililani location bc it’s closer but he hates how they make their rice. The past couple times it has had no flavor! We will definitely be going back to Waipio. The staff are friendly, the inside is clean with a large seating area and the customer service was exceptional. The only complaint is the parking lot is small and can get hectic as certain times but tonight it...

The restaurant is located in a strip mall. Parking and traffic flow can sometimes be a problem. There is a Starbucks with a drive thru which sometimes backs up to entrance of the parking lot. Frustrating and annoying if you are wanting to enter the parking lot. The employees are always cheerful and accommodating. For someone like me, who is looking for healthier options, Panda Express fits the bill. I am able to choose steamed vegetables as my "starch/side" option, and they have several main dish options that are designated as "smart wok" selections. Their smart wok selections are lower in calories than their other dishes, and many times they include yummy vegetables. Since I need a starch to offset the main dish they also allow you to "half" your starch/side option. I chose white rice (but you can also choose brown rice), and the steamed vegetables. A good alternative when I am tired of eating salads and grilled chicken sandwiches...

Great customer service, tho app can be glitchy and doesn't always offer the same options as the store. High turnover + smaller pre-cooked batches = fresher food. It's consistently Panda otherwise, though. You know what you're getting when you order here.

1 large, clean unisex bathroom, though no changing table options. Ample seating, room for strollers, and frequently cleaned when we've been. Better for groups than other Pandas in area.

Free parking, though spaces can be tight and because Costco is nearby, the parking lot can be a little MadMax at times.

The staff here are nice, although some language barriers at times. Fresh veg and reasonable prices, with better seating options than other Panda Expresses...