China Panda Garden

1788 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92021, United States
+1 619-588-8098
$$$ Chinese restaurant
(356 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Welcome to China Panda Garden, a cozy haven for lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine located conveniently at 1788 E Main St, El Cajon, CA 92021. Whether you're craving a quick meal or a cozy dining experience, this gem has all your culinary needs covered. With a phone number at +1 619-588-8098, reaching out to inquire about specials or make reservations is just a call away.

China Panda Garden specializes in classic Chinese dishes that evoke the rich flavors and traditions of this beloved cuisine. As you step into the restaurant, the warm, inviting atmosphere draws you in, accentuated by friendly staff who make every visit feel personalized. The attention to detail is evident, from the flavors that dance on your palate to the genuine hospitality offered by the restaurant owner and family.

Among the myriad of delicious options, you cannot miss the Crispy Beef—a fan favorite that brings customers back time and again. Several reviews highlight how it stands out as possibly the best someone has ever tasted. For instance, one satisfied patron reflects on the joy of savoring a perfectly textured crispy beef that is rarely found elsewhere. Another delightful dish to consider is the Curry Chicken, which one visitor described as “cooked with love.” Each bite of their decadent General Tao’s Chicken or Kung Pao Chicken promises to be an explosion of flavors, making you reminisce about your most cherished meals.

The menu at China Panda Garden extends generously beyond the classics, boasting delectable appetizers like Fried Shrimps and Crab Ragoon, to mouth-watering fried rice selections at reasonable prices. The air is often perfumed with the savory scents of Mandarin Fried Rice or the tangy aroma of Sweet & Sour Chicken as it wafts through the dining area. It's no wonder customers praise the freshness and quality of the ingredients they serve, with some noting how the flavors reflect true culinary artistry.

Reviewers consistently commend the quick and efficient service despite having a small dining area—that's a great tip if you plan on visiting with a larger group! Don't forget to call ahead to ensure seating arrangements can accommodate your party. Diners rave about returning for to-go orders as well, as taking home delicious leftovers extends the experience beyond the restaurant's doors.

Overall, China Panda Garden serves as a solid local gem that not only provides mouth-watering, satisfying meals but also creates fond memories with every visit. So, whether you’re a local resident or just passing through El Cajon, make sure to satisfy your cravings at China Panda Garden. You won’t just eat; you’ll eat well, and leave with a smile!

Accessibility
Has wheelchair-accessible car park
Has wheelchair-accessible entrance
Has wheelchair-accessible toilet
Does not have assistive hearing loop
Service options
Offers takeaway
Serves dine-in
No delivery
Highlights
Has fast service
Has great tea selection
Popular for
Popular for lunch
Popular for dinner
Good for solo dining
Offerings
Serves alcohol
Serves beer
Serves healthy options
Quick bite
Serves small plates
Serves vegetarian dishes
Serves wine
Dining options
Serves lunch
Serves dinner
Has seating
Amenities
Has gender-neutral toilets
Has toilet
Atmosphere
Casual
Cosy
Crowd
Good for groups
Planning
Reservations required
Accepts reservations
Payments
Accepts credit cards
Accepts debit cards
Credit cards
Parking
Free of charge street parking
Free parking lot
Plenty of parking
Openings Hours
Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

,

05:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Wednesday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

,

05:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Thursday

05:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Friday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

,

05:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Saturday

11:00 AM - 02:00 PM

,

05:00 PM - 08:30 PM

Sunday

Closed

356 Reviews
John Petterson

16 Aug 2025

I had curry chicken and it was delicious, plenty of food and you can tell the food was cooked with love. Very nice staff, I'll be back for more food!

Alice Blonskij

20 Jul 2025

I was in the mood for crispy beef, coming from Imperial Valley, I used to cross to Mexicali where they had the best Chinese food but I decided to find all the restaurants that had crispy beef and looked at the reviews and this place won. The food was fresh and delicious and d the reviews and the restaurant did not disappoint. There was only one waitress so she was busy to give attention but she was sweet and she did a good job.

Grace Berg

05 Jul 2025

Easily the best Chinese food I've ever had. Crispy beef, curry beef, usuals like Kung Pao, Orange chicken all amazing and worth a repeat. Smaller dining room so call ahead with big parties if you want to sit together. We do both dine in and take out but it's amazing food everytime. Owner and fam is super friendly.

Mike Mikha

18 Jun 2025

Solid local gem hidden in the shopping center. First time trying it and it was really good. We got the beef and broccoli, and the chicken lo mein and they were both excellent full of flavor and very tasty. The service was good and quick for to go orders. I would recommend ordering ahead of time now.

mariah tartaglia

14 Jun 2025

It's a very casual and small eatery we checked out the reviews for. ISO Crispy Beef. We were delighted it's quite possibly the best I ever had. Nothing disappoints me more than soggy Beef when it says Crispy, which has become the norm in most Chinese restaurants IF it's on the menu. My sister ordered a side of Mandarin Noodles which were also delicious. I'm sad I live on the other side of our country and can't be a regular.

Matthew McMullen

06 Jun 2025

Love this place. Friendly place. Cindy always taken time to chat with all customers, which makes for a more personalized experience. Food always great.

brian mcclimans

28 May 2025

Used to eat there often when visiting El Cajon. Loved loved loved Crispy Beef. Have since moved to Illinois. Can't find anything like it. Is there another name it might have? Can't find a recipe to even try to make it. Yes, Crispy Beef here is the must order item. Of course, all the food is great and it ranks amongst my favorite Chinese restaurants. If I could only find (or make) some Crispy Beef.

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