New Panda Express opens in Clovis with celebration, flavor, and community spirit

The first guests at the new Panda Express in Clovis receive a special gift! (Photo by Steven Sanchez, Clovis Roundup)

May 20, 2025 — The unmistakable aroma of Orange Chicken and Beijing Beef drifted through the air Friday morning as Panda Express officially opened its newest location at 288 W. Shaw Avenue, marking a vibrant new chapter in Clovis’s culinary and community scene.

The grand opening drew a crowd of enthusiastic residents eager to welcome the popular American Chinese restaurant chain to town. Guests began lining up early for a chance to be among the first 88 people to receive a limited-edition Panda Express t-shirt. At 9 a.m., the ribbon was cut, confetti flew, and the doors opened to cheers and smiles.

Clovis Mayor Vong Mouanoutoua joined members of the Clovis Chamber of Commerce to mark the moment with a formal ribbon-cutting and the presentation of a certificate of recognition from the California State Senate—an official nod to Panda Express’s impact not only as a business but as a positive force in communities across California.

The new Clovis location features Panda’s latest “Panda Home” restaurant design, a modern yet culturally grounded atmosphere that celebrates the brand’s roots. Inside, visitors are greeted by vibrant Chinatown signage, red lanterns, and a striking moon gate portal—elements inspired by traditional Chinese architecture and fused with Panda’s signature hospitality and warmth. The restaurant also includes a drive-thru for added convenience.

Beyond the delicious food that has made Panda Express a household name, the company is known for its commitment to community involvement. Through the Panda Cares Foundation, the brand supports youth education, health initiatives, and disaster relief efforts nationwide. In Fresno County alone, Panda Express locations have contributed to school programs, local nonprofits, and community events over the years.

Panda Express began in 1983, founded by Andrew and Peggy Cherng as a bold vision to bring authentic American Chinese cuisine to a broader audience. Over the decades, it has become the largest Asian dining concept in the U.S., with a loyal following drawn to its high-quality ingredients, bold flavors, and commitment to service.

Friday’s celebration also included a special appearance by Pei Pei, the brand’s popular panda mascot, who posed for photos and brought smiles to guests young and old.

With a warm welcome from city leaders and an excited turnout from the community, Panda Express is already making itself at home in Clovis. Whether you’re craving a hot plate of Chow Mein or looking for a fast, flavorful lunch, this new location promises to deliver on all fronts—taste, tradition, and community connection.

As the ribbon is cut and the woks start sizzling, one thing is clear: Panda Express has found a home in Clovis, and Clovis is hungry for more.