Panda West Chinese Seafood Restaurant

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The closest Chinatown to Syracuse University may be 246 miles away in New York City, but you can sample a taste of Chinatown with a quick jaunt to Marshall Street

At Panda West Chinese Seafood Restaurant, the staff strives to appease the appetites of SU students by bringing the diverse delicacies of Asian cuisine to the outskirts of campus, going as far as strategically placing the slogan “We Bring Chinatown to You” on its take-out menu. 

Located between Pita El Saha and Pita Pit, Panda West may appear to be an afterthought for those walking on Marshall Street. But don’t be fooled because the restaurant’s prices and provisions can compete with the best of the block. The restaurant offers an assortment of choices, from traditional options such as wonton soup and General Tso’s Chicken to unconventional American dishes like chicken fingers and BBQ ribs.

When to Go: Lunch time is highly recommended, primarily so you can take advantage of the lunch specials. From 11 a.m. – 3 p.m. on Monday - Saturday, Panda West offers discounted prices for its most popular plates. But if you’re looking for a classy and quiet dinner date, then weekend nights will be your best bet. Panda West is open 11 a.m. – 10 p.m., Monday – Thursday; 11 a.m. – 11 p.m., Friday – Saturday; and 12 p.m. – 10 p.m. on Sunday. Bottom Line: If you’re looking for bang for your buck, then come for lunch. 

On Tap: Alcohol is not available. Bottom Line: Embrace a new cultural experience and sip on some hot, Chinese tea. 

Blue Plate Special: As long as you stick to the lunch hours, most meals, which include side options of soup and rice, will be covered by the specials and will cost a little less than $6. The only exceptions are the six house specials – Sesame Chicken, General Tso’s Chicken, Mala Chicken, Tangerine Beef, Triple Delight, and House Special Bean Curd – which are priced at $7.25. Bottom Line: A low cost and filling lunch awaits you six days a week.

The Scene: The dining area is nice and chic. The tables appear to be too small to cram more than three people, so if you come through with a large group, don’t be surprised if you experience an uncomfortable violation of your personal space. Bottom Line: Limit what you bring and wear light clothes, but always remember to keep it classy. 

The Crew: All the employees are friendly and accommodating. They enjoy catering to customers that are interested in learning about Chinese food and culture. Bottom Line: Don’t be ashamed to ask anyone what Moo Goo Gai Pan is. 

The Crowd: It’s not your average Chinese restaurant, so expect to see groups of culturally-savvy customers embrace the eating experience. With that said, a majority of the customers will still be comprised of poor college students hoping to take advantage of the lunch specials. Bottom Line: If you offer students a deal for food, they will come. 

The Deets: (All credit cards accepted). Hopefully, after after cracking open your fortune cookie and reading an uplifting message, you’ll leave Panda West with a smile on your face and a satisfied stomach. Bottom Line: My fortune cookie message sums it up: You will be rewarded for a great decision in the near future. 

Reviewed by: Didier Morais

Location

135 Marshall Street
Syracuse, NY 13210
(315) 474-7777

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Panda West serves the fish

Panda West serves the fish whole, with all the bones and head. This is the original style so you get the full flavor from all the parts of the fish. Delicious.

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