Soft Chinese pop music plays in the background and flower decals are sprinkled across the calm color of the walls, leading to the bar in the back. Modern wooden shelves of East Asian influence hang behind the front counter and the bar. Decorations are sparse instead of cluttered, all in all making for a very tidy look.
An extensive menu has everything fans of the cuisine could want, even simple chicken wings. This also includes a hibachi section serving fried rice and grilled vegetables along with the guest's choice of meat (or lack thereof). For adults, there is a small selection of domestic and imported beer, even some sake and wine.
Appetizers start things up with popular choices such as Crab Rangoon and egg rolls. Lucky Panda's entrees have all the classics, like fried rice, lo mein, and chop suey. There are also plenty of other favorites to choose from, including sweet and sour dishes or General Tso's chicken. Almost every dish has a vegetarian version, and there is even a section for healthier meals.
The menu continues on with even more options like delicious chow mai fun, a delightful rice noodle dish seasoned with pepper and vegetables, plus chef specialties and lunch specials. Before each meal is served, a small plate of wontons with sweet and sour dipping sauce is set on the table for the party to nibble on.
Though the interior of the restaurant is lovely and great for family and friends to have a meal together, many patrons take advantage of Lucky Panda's take-out. The restaurant's website not only has a full menu but the ability to place orders online, with a spot for substitutions or notes as needed.
The team in the kitchen works swiftly to make sure food comes out within a decent waiting time and also piping hot. Many regulars who ordered take-out will still come in to pick up their food earlier than necessary simply so they can talk with the owner and chef who are frequently out on the floor.
No meal at a Chinese restaurant is complete without a fortune cookie and of course Lucky Panda is happy to provide them. So for visitors and locals on the north end in need of some extra fortune, visiting Lucky Panda is a good place to start.