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"Opening on February 6, this new Panda Express sister concept in Pasadena emphasizes vegetable-forward, healthier fast-casual dishes while retaining signature items in reimagined formats. Highlights include an orange chicken salad and an ’rrito that substitutes a scallion pancake for a tortilla-like wrapper; wok-seared garlic kale; cabbage and broccoli; glazed carrots and Brussels sprouts; an Asian vegetable crudité; and a quinoa fried rice aimed at nutrition-conscious diners. The Pasadena location — the fourth Southern California outlet after Westwood, Hacienda Heights, and Monterey Park — is being used as a testing ground to see which dishes might be applied to other Panda Express restaurants. The interior is modern with neon signs and a tea-parlor vibe, and the beverage lineup features pearl milk teas, fruit teas, lemonades, smoothies, and sparkling yogurt drinks. Located in the same building as one of the chain’s original Panda Express sites from over 20 years ago, it will be open 10 a.m.–10 p.m. Monday through Saturday and 11 a.m.–9:30 p.m. on Sundays." - Mona Holmes