Panda Express Hours: Opening & Closing Times (2026 Guide)
Finding the correct Panda Express hours before visiting a restaurant can save time and help you plan your meal better. Most Panda Express locations follow a similar schedule, but opening and closing times may change depending on the store location, mall hours, airport operations, holidays, and local conditions.

In this guide, you will find the latest Panda Express opening hours, closing times, weekend schedules, holiday hours, drive-thru availability, and delivery timings. Whether you are planning lunch, dinner, pickup, or delivery, this information helps you know when your nearest Panda Express is available.
Because restaurant hours can vary by location, it is always recommended to confirm the exact schedule of your local Panda Express before visiting.
Panda Express Hours Today
If you are planning to visit Panda Express today, most locations follow a similar schedule, but exact opening and closing times can vary depending on the restaurant location, city, and store type.
Most standalone Panda Express restaurants typically open around 10:30 AM and close between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM. Locations inside shopping malls, airports, and universities may follow different operating schedules based on their surrounding facilities.
Before visiting, it is best to check the hours of your local Panda Express because holiday schedules, special events, and location policies can affect normal operating times.
Typical Panda Express Hours Today
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
These are general operating hours for many Panda Express locations and may change depending on the specific restaurant.
How To Check If Panda Express Is Open Right Now
To find the exact status of a nearby Panda Express location:
- Check the official Panda Express store locator
- Use the Panda Express mobile app
- Search your nearest restaurant on Google Maps
- Call the restaurant directly for holiday or special hours
Checking ahead is especially useful for mall locations, airport restaurants, and stores with different closing schedules.
Panda Express Regular Weekly Hours
Most Panda Express locations follow a consistent weekly schedule, with many standalone restaurants opening in the late morning and closing in the evening. However, hours can differ depending on the store location, including restaurants inside malls, airports, universities, and other high-traffic areas.
The table below shows the typical Panda Express hours by day.
Panda Express Hours Monday to Sunday
| Day | Opening Time | Closing Time |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 10:30 AM | 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:30 AM | 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 11:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
What Time Does Panda Express Open?
Most standalone Panda Express restaurants open at around 10:30 AM from Monday through Saturday. Sunday hours are often slightly different, with many locations opening around 11:00 AM.
Customers should keep in mind that:
- Mall locations may open according to mall operating hours.
- Airport locations may have different schedules.
- University locations may adjust hours during holidays or school breaks.
What Time Does Panda Express Close?
Most Panda Express restaurants close between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM.
Typical closing schedule:
- Monday–Thursday: Around 9:30 PM
- Friday–Saturday: Around 10:00 PM
- Sunday: Around 9:00 PM
Some drive-thru locations may operate slightly later than the dining area.
Are Panda Express Hours The Same Everywhere?
No, Panda Express hours can vary by location. Factors that can change operating times include:
- Restaurant type
- Local regulations
- Shopping mall schedules
- Airport operating hours
- Holidays
- Seasonal changes
For the most accurate hours, customers should check their specific Panda Express location before visiting.
Panda Express Opening Hours
Knowing the Panda Express opening hours helps you plan your visit before heading out for lunch, dinner, or pickup. Most Panda Express restaurants open late morning because the brand mainly serves lunch and dinner menu items rather than breakfast.
While many locations open around 10:30 AM, the exact opening time can change depending on the type of restaurant and its location.

What Time Does Panda Express Open?
Most regular Panda Express restaurants typically open at:
Opening Time: 10:30 AM
On Sundays, some locations may open later:
Sunday Opening Time: Around 11:00 AM
However, opening times can vary based on the restaurant format.
Panda Express Opening Hours By Location Type
| Location Type | Typical Opening Time |
|---|---|
| Standalone Restaurant | 10:30 AM |
| Strip Mall Location | 10:30 AM |
| Shopping Mall Food Court | Around 11:00 AM |
| Airport Location | Varies (Some open earlier) |
Standalone Panda Express Locations
Standalone restaurants usually follow the most consistent schedule. Most locations open around 10:30 AM and begin preparing lunch service shortly after opening.
- • Regular dining hours
- • Drive-thru service
- • Mobile pickup options
Panda Express Mall Hours
Panda Express restaurants located inside shopping malls may follow the mall’s operating schedule instead of standard restaurant hours.
- • Open later in the morning
- • Close earlier than standalone stores
- • Adjust hours during holidays or special events
Panda Express Airport Hours
Airport Panda Express locations often have different schedules because they depend on airport operations and passenger traffic.
- • Open earlier than normal restaurants
- • Close later based on flight schedules
- • Follow terminal operating hours
Does Panda Express Serve Breakfast?
No, Panda Express generally does not offer a breakfast menu. Most locations focus on lunch and dinner service, which is why restaurants usually open in the late morning.
Best Time To Visit Panda Express
For fresh food and shorter waiting times, consider visiting:
Shorter Wait & Fresh Food
- • Before lunch rush: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- • Afternoon hours: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- • Early dinner: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Peak Busy Times
- • Lunch: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- • Dinner: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Panda Express Closing Hours
Knowing the Panda Express closing hours helps you plan your visit and avoid arriving after the restaurant has stopped taking orders. Most Panda Express locations close in the evening, but exact closing times can vary depending on the restaurant type, location, and local operating rules.
Most standalone Panda Express restaurants typically close between 9:30 PM and 10:00 PM. Friday and Saturday locations often stay open slightly later compared with weekdays.
What Time Does Panda Express Close?
Typical Panda Express closing times:
| Day | Typical Closing Time |
|---|---|
| Monday | 9:30 PM |
| Tuesday | 9:30 PM |
| Wednesday | 9:30 PM |
| Thursday | 9:30 PM |
| Friday | 10:00 PM |
| Saturday | 10:00 PM |
| Sunday | 9:00 PM |
These hours represent common schedules, but individual restaurants may close earlier or later depending on their location.
Does Panda Express Close Earlier on Sunday?
Yes, many Panda Express restaurants have shorter Sunday hours.
Typical Sunday schedule:
Opening Time: 11:00 AM
Closing Time: 9:00 PM
Sunday hours can be different for locations inside malls, airports, and shopping centers.
Does Panda Express Drive-Thru Close Later?
Some Panda Express locations with drive-thru service may remain open slightly longer than the dining room.
| Service Type | Closing Time |
|---|---|
| Dining Room | Around 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
| Drive-Thru | May close slightly later |
Drive-thru availability depends on whether the specific restaurant offers this service and local operating hours.
What Happens If You Arrive Near Closing Time?
If you visit Panda Express shortly before closing:
- Some menu items may have limited availability.
- Kitchen preparation may begin slowing down.
- Mobile ordering may stop before the official closing time.
For the best experience, arriving at least 15–30 minutes before closing is recommended.
How To Check Panda Express Closing Time Near You
The most accurate way to check closing hours is:
- Use the Panda Express store locator
- Check the Panda Express mobile app
- View the restaurant listing on Google Maps
- Call your local restaurant
This is especially important during holidays or for mall and airport locations where schedules may differ.
Panda Express Weekend Hours
Weekend hours at Panda Express are slightly different from regular weekday schedules. Fridays and Saturdays are usually the busiest days because more customers visit for lunch, dinner, takeout, and family meals. Because of higher demand, many locations keep their service available later in the evening.
However, weekend hours can still vary depending on the restaurant location, including mall, airport, and standalone stores.
Panda Express Friday Hours
Friday is usually one of the longer operating days for many Panda Express restaurants.
Day: Friday
Opening: 10:30 AM
Closing: 10:00 PM
Many standalone locations extend their hours on Friday evenings to serve customers during the dinner rush.
Panda Express Saturday Hours
Saturday hours are similar to Friday, with many restaurants staying open until around 10:00 PM.
Day: Saturday
Opening: 10:30 AM
Closing: 10:00 PM
Saturday is often one of the busiest days of the week, especially during evening dining hours.
Panda Express Sunday Hours
Sunday schedules are usually shorter compared with Friday and Saturday.
Day: Sunday
Opening: 11:00 AM
Closing: 9:00 PM
Many locations open later and close earlier on Sunday, although exact hours depend on the store location.
Best Time To Visit Panda Express On Weekends
If you want faster service and shorter wait times, consider visiting during less busy periods:
Less Busy Times:
- • Before lunch: 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM
- • Afternoon: 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM
- • Early evening: 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM
Busiest Times:
- • Lunch rush: 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM
- • Dinner rush: 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM
Do Panda Express Hours Change On Weekends?
Yes, weekend hours can change depending on:
- Store location
- Shopping mall schedule
- Airport operating hours
- Local events
- Holidays
For the most accurate weekend schedule, check the specific Panda Express location before visiting.
Panda Express Holiday Hours
Panda Express holiday hours can be different from regular operating schedules. While many restaurants remain open on most holidays, some locations may have reduced hours or close completely depending on the holiday, store type, and local management decisions.
Before visiting Panda Express on a holiday, it is recommended to confirm the hours of your local restaurant because mall, airport, and standalone locations may follow different schedules.
Panda Express Holiday Hours 2026
| Holiday | Operating Status | Typical Schedule |
|---|---|---|
| New Year’s Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Martin Luther King Jr. Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Valentine’s Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Easter Sunday | Open | Reduced Hours May Apply |
| Memorial Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Independence Day (July 4) | Open | Regular Hours |
| Labor Day | Open | Regular Hours |
| Halloween | Open | Regular Hours |
| Thanksgiving Day | Closed | Most Locations Closed |
| Christmas Eve | Open | Reduced Hours |
| Christmas Day | Closed | Most Locations Closed |
| New Year’s Eve | Open | Regular or Reduced Hours |
Is Panda Express Open on Thanksgiving?
Most Panda Express locations are closed on Thanksgiving Day. This allows employees to spend the holiday with their families. However, holiday schedules may vary by location, so checking your nearest restaurant before visiting is recommended.
Is Panda Express Open on Christmas?
Most Panda Express restaurants are closed on Christmas Day. On Christmas Eve, many locations remain open but may operate with reduced hours and close earlier than normal.
Is Panda Express Open on New Year’s Day?
Many Panda Express locations are open on New Year’s Day and typically follow their regular operating schedule. Some restaurants may have adjusted hours depending on location.
Do Panda Express Holiday Hours Change By Location?
Yes, holiday hours can vary because of:
- Shopping mall schedules
- Airport operating rules
- Local regulations
- Franchise/location decisions
- Seasonal changes
For the most accurate holiday schedule, check the specific restaurant location before traveling.
How To Check Panda Express Holiday Hours
You can confirm holiday hours through:
- Panda Express store locator
- Panda Express mobile app
- Google Maps listing
- Direct restaurant phone number
Checking ahead helps avoid arriving when a location is closed or operating on a limited schedule.
Panda Express Lunch & Dinner Hours
Panda Express lunch and dinner hours follow the restaurant’s regular operating schedule because most locations serve the same menu throughout the day. Unlike traditional restaurants with separate lunch and dinner menus, Panda Express usually offers its full menu from opening until closing.
Most locations begin lunch service shortly after opening, with the busiest lunch period typically occurring around midday. Dinner hours are usually the busiest time of the evening when customers visit for takeout, dine-in meals, and family orders.

Panda Express Lunch Hours
Panda Express lunch service usually starts when the restaurant opens.
| Service | Time |
|---|---|
| Lunch Starts | Around 10:30 AM |
| Peak Lunch Time | 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM |
Lunch is often the busiest period for locations near:
- Office buildings
- Shopping centers
- Business districts
- College campuses
During peak lunch hours, popular menu items may have higher demand because many customers visit during their work or school breaks.
Panda Express Dinner Hours
Dinner service continues after lunch and remains available until the restaurant closes.
| Service | Time |
|---|---|
| Dinner Starts | Around 4:00 PM |
| Peak Dinner Time | 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Closing Time | 9:30 PM – 10:00 PM |
Dinner is usually the busiest evening period, especially on Fridays and weekends.
Best Time To Visit Panda Express
If you want fresh food and shorter waiting times, consider visiting during non-peak hours.
Less Busy Times:
- • 10:30 AM – 11:30 AM (before lunch rush)
- • 2:00 PM – 4:30 PM (afternoon hours)
- • 5:00 PM – 6:00 PM (before dinner rush)
Busiest Times:
- • 12:00 PM – 1:30 PM (lunch rush)
- • 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM (dinner rush)
Does Panda Express Have Different Lunch And Dinner Menus?
No, Panda Express generally serves the same menu items throughout the day. Customers can order popular entrees, sides, appetizers, and meal combinations during both lunch and dinner hours.
Menu availability may vary depending on: Restaurant location, Ingredient availability, Local operating conditions.
Does Panda Express Serve Food Until Closing Time?
Most locations continue serving food until closing, but customers arriving very close to closing time may experience:
- Limited availability of some menu items
- Longer preparation times for certain dishes
- Earlier cutoff times for delivery orders
For the best selection, visiting earlier in the operating hours is recommended.
Panda Express Drive-Thru Hours & Pickup Availability
Many Panda Express drive-thru locations provide a convenient way to order food without entering the restaurant. Drive-thru availability is usually offered at standalone locations and often follows the restaurant’s regular operating schedule, although some drive-thru windows may remain open slightly longer than the dining area.
Drive-thru hours can vary depending on the location, store type, and local operating policies.

What Time Does Panda Express Drive-Thru Open?
Most Panda Express drive-thru locations open when the restaurant begins daily operations.
| Day | Opening Time |
|---|---|
| Monday – Saturday | Around 10:30 AM |
| Sunday | Around 11:00 AM |
Some locations may have different opening times depending on local conditions.
What Time Does Panda Express Drive-Thru Close?
Drive-thru closing times are usually similar to restaurant closing hours, but some locations may continue serving drive-thru customers slightly later.
| Day | Typical Drive-Thru Closing Time |
|---|---|
| Monday – Thursday | Around 10:00 PM |
| Friday – Saturday | Around 10:30 PM |
| Sunday | Around 9:00 PM |
Drive-thru hours depend on whether the specific Panda Express location offers this service.
Panda Express Curbside Pickup Hours
Some Panda Express locations offer curbside pickup through online ordering or the mobile app.
Typical curbside pickup availability:
- Starts: Around restaurant opening time
- Ends: Before or around closing time
Curbside service may stop earlier than the restaurant closing time to allow staff to complete final orders.
Does Every Panda Express Have A Drive-Thru?
No, not every Panda Express location has a drive-thru.
Drive-thru availability is more common at:
- Standalone restaurants
- Suburban locations
- Highway locations
Locations that may not have drive-thru service include:
- Shopping mall food courts
- Airport locations
- Some urban locations
Panda Express Drive-Thru vs Dining Room Hours
| Service Type | Typical Schedule |
|---|---|
| Dining Room | 10:30 AM – 9:30/10:00 PM |
| Drive-Thru | May stay open slightly later |
| Curbside Pickup | Usually follows restaurant hours |
Tips For Faster Panda Express Pickup
To save time:
- Order through the Panda Express app before arriving.
- Avoid peak lunch and dinner rush periods.
- Check your location’s pickup availability before ordering.
- Confirm closing times on weekends and holidays.
Panda Express Delivery Hours & Online Ordering Times
Panda Express delivery hours usually follow the restaurant’s normal operating schedule, but online ordering may stop before the official closing time. Delivery availability depends on the location, delivery platform, driver availability, and how much time is needed to prepare and complete the order.
Most customers can place delivery orders during regular business hours, but it is recommended to order earlier during busy periods to avoid delays or unavailable delivery slots.
What Time Does Panda Express Delivery Start?
Panda Express delivery usually becomes available shortly after the restaurant opens.
| Service | Starting Time |
|---|---|
| Official Panda Express App/Website | Around 10:30 AM |
| Third-Party Delivery Apps | Around 10:45 AM |
Delivery start times may vary depending on the restaurant location and delivery partner availability.
What Time Does Panda Express Delivery End?
Delivery ordering usually ends before the restaurant closes to give staff and delivery drivers enough time to prepare final orders.
| Delivery Method | Order Cutoff |
|---|---|
| Panda Express App/Website | 30–45 minutes before closing |
| Third-Party Apps | Up to 1 hour before closing |
Does Panda Express Deliver Late At Night?
Some Panda Express locations offer evening delivery, but late-night availability depends on:
- Restaurant closing time
- Delivery driver availability
- Location
- Third-party delivery service hours
Locations in busy areas may offer delivery later than smaller or mall-based restaurants.
Panda Express Online Ordering Hours
Online ordering is generally available during restaurant operating hours. Customers can order through:
- Panda Express website
- Panda Express mobile app
- Delivery partners
Online ordering may close earlier than the physical restaurant, especially near closing time.
Why Is Panda Express Delivery Showing Closed?
Sometimes delivery apps may show a Panda Express location as unavailable even when the restaurant is still open. Common reasons include:
- Delivery cutoff has passed
- No drivers are available
- The restaurant is handling high order volume
- Certain menu items are unavailable
- The location has stopped accepting online orders
Tips For Faster Panda Express Delivery
To receive your order smoothly:
- Place orders before peak dinner hours.
- Order earlier on weekends.
- Confirm the restaurant location before checkout.
- Check estimated delivery time before submitting your order.
Does Panda Express Offer Pickup Instead Of Delivery?
Yes, many Panda Express locations offer pickup options through online ordering. Pickup can be faster than delivery because customers collect the order directly from the restaurant.
Why Panda Express Hours Change By Location
Although many Panda Express locations follow a similar schedule, opening and closing times are not identical everywhere. Restaurant hours can change depending on the type of location, local regulations, customer traffic, and the operating environment.
Understanding why hours vary can help you find more accurate information before visiting your nearest Panda Express.
Factors That Affect Panda Express Hours
Shopping Mall Locations
Panda Express restaurants located inside shopping malls usually follow the mall’s operating hours instead of the standard standalone restaurant schedule.
Mall locations may:
- Open later than regular restaurants
- Close earlier in the evening
- Adjust hours during holidays
- Follow special mall events or seasonal schedules
Airport Locations
Airport Panda Express restaurants often operate differently because they depend on airport activity and passenger schedules.
Airport locations may:
- Open earlier than standard restaurants
- Stay open later based on terminal operations
- Follow airport security and facility hours
University & Campus Locations
Panda Express restaurants located near universities or inside campus facilities may change their schedules based on:
- Academic semesters
- Student activity levels
- School holidays
- Campus operating hours
During breaks or summer periods, some locations may have reduced hours.
Standalone Panda Express Restaurants
Standalone locations usually have the most consistent operating hours.
These locations often offer:
- Regular dining hours
- Drive-thru service
- Mobile pickup options
- Longer evening availability
Drive-thru locations may operate later than restaurants located inside malls or food courts.
Do Panda Express Hours Change During Holidays?
Yes, holiday schedules can be different from normal operating hours. Changes may happen because of:
- Employee holiday schedules
- Reduced customer demand
- Mall or airport holiday policies
- Local management decisions
It is always recommended to check your specific location before visiting during major holidays.
Why Checking Local Hours Matters
Searching for general Panda Express hours gives an estimated schedule, but your nearest restaurant may have different times.
For the most accurate information, check:
- Official Panda Express location finder
- Panda Express mobile app
- Google Maps
- Direct restaurant phone number
This ensures you get the correct opening time, closing time, and service availability for your location.
How To Find Panda Express Hours Near You
Finding the correct Panda Express hours near you is important because restaurant schedules can vary by location. While general opening and closing times provide a good estimate, your nearest Panda Express may have different hours based on its location type, local conditions, and operating schedule.
The easiest way to get accurate hours is to check the specific Panda Express restaurant you plan to visit.
Ways To Check Panda Express Hours Near You
1. Use The Panda Express Location Finder
The Panda Express location finder is one of the most reliable ways to check:
- Restaurant address
- Opening hours
- Closing hours
- Drive-thru availability
- Pickup options
- Contact details
Search for your city, state, or ZIP code to find nearby restaurants and their current schedules.
2. Check Google Maps
Google Maps is another quick way to find local Panda Express hours. You can check:
- Today’s opening status
- Closing time
- Busy hours
- Customer updates
- Restaurant directions
Always check recent updates because hours can change during holidays or special events.
3. Use The Panda Express Mobile App
The Panda Express app allows customers to:
- Find nearby locations
- View restaurant hours
- Place pickup orders
- Check available services
It can be useful when you want to order food and confirm whether your nearest location is currently accepting orders.
4. Call The Restaurant Directly
Calling the restaurant is the best option when you need confirmation about:
- Holiday hours
- Temporary closures
- Special schedules
- Delivery availability
- Drive-thru hours
A team member can provide the most current information for that specific location.
Why Local Panda Express Hours Are Different
Your nearest Panda Express hours may differ because of:
- Restaurant location
- Mall or airport schedules
- Local events
- Holidays
- Seasonal changes
- Store operating policies
For example, a standalone restaurant may stay open later than a Panda Express inside a shopping mall.
Tips Before Visiting Panda Express
Before heading to a Panda Express location:
- ✅ Check today’s hours
- ✅ Confirm the restaurant is open
- ✅ Check if drive-thru is available
- ✅ Review holiday schedules
- ✅ Order online if pickup is available
This helps avoid unnecessary waiting and ensures a smoother visit.
Frequently Asked Questions About Panda Express Hours
1. What time does Panda Express open?
2. What time does Panda Express close?
3. What are Panda Express hours today?
4. Is Panda Express open on Sunday?
5. Is Panda Express open on Saturday?
6. Is Panda Express open on holidays?
7. Is Panda Express open on Thanksgiving?
8. Is Panda Express open on Christmas Day?
9. Does Panda Express have different hours on Christmas Eve?
10. What time does Panda Express lunch start?
11. What time does Panda Express stop serving food?
12. Does Panda Express drive-thru stay open later?
13. What time does Panda Express delivery close?
14. Does Panda Express have the same hours everywhere?
15. How can I find Panda Express hours near me?
16. Does Panda Express open early in the morning?
17. Does Panda Express close earlier on Sunday?
18. Are Panda Express mall locations open at the same time?
19. Why are Panda Express hours different near me?
20. Can Panda Express hours change without notice?
Final Thoughts
Finding the correct Panda Express hours before visiting can make your dining experience easier and more convenient. While many locations follow a similar schedule, opening times, closing times, and available services can vary depending on the restaurant location, store type, and local operating conditions.
Whether you are planning a lunch visit, dinner order, drive-thru pickup, or delivery, checking the latest hours helps you avoid unnecessary waiting and ensures that your nearest Panda Express is available when you need it.
For the most accurate information, always confirm your local restaurant’s schedule before visiting, especially during weekends, holidays, or special events. Understanding Panda Express opening hours and closing hours allows you to plan your meal around a time that works best for you.