Panda Express - Hilo (E Makaala St)
About
Flavor on the Go in Hilo
Positioned conveniently near the bustling commercial hubs of Hilo, this spot serves as a reliable pitstop for those craving familiar American Chinese flavors. Whether you are finishing up a grocery run or heading toward the university district, the aroma of sizzling woks and sweet-and-sour glaze greets you the moment you step through the doors.
Signature Staples and Quick Bites
The kitchen is synonymous with the Original Orange Chicken, a dish that balances a crisp, fried exterior with a zesty, citrus-infused sauce. It is a reliable favorite that hits the spot every time. If you prefer something with a bit more heat, the Kung Pao Chicken offers a crunch of peanuts and a subtle kick from dried chilies. Pair these with their classic chow mein or steamed vegetables for a satisfying, fast-casual meal that doesn't require a long wait.
The Atmosphere
The space is bright and functional, designed for efficiency. You will find that it caters perfectly to students, busy families, and locals grabbing a quick lunch break. While the dining area is straightforward, the service moves with a rapid pace, ensuring you can get back to your day in East Hawaii without delay. A minor heads-up for those visiting during peak hours: the parking lot can get quite busy given its proximity to other popular Hilo retailers, so patience is a virtue when pulling in. It is a straightforward, no-fuss environment where the focus remains entirely on getting your plate loaded with your favorite quick-fix comfort food.
Photos
Location
368 E Makaala St, Hilo, Hawaii, 96720-5161
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Reviews
Showing 10 of 31 community reviewsMaribeth PiliGoogle Maps
Recently
I love the Hot Potato Wedges!
Ka'olino DeKneefGoogle Maps
Recently
best fried chicken ever hands down
Susan AnackerGoogle Maps
Recently
Will not let customers use rest room. Don’t shop here
Garris HartGoogle Maps
Recently
The hurricane sauce potato wedges are fire, I recommend that everyone try them when stopping I this fine establishment, mahalo and much love and Aloha to all who read this...
Salaia SemaiaGoogle Maps
Recently
Worse experience ever.... Y'all really need to train your workers more on customer service. Their faces says everything, so rude. Not even a Hello, how you doing? Nothing. They can't even offer if you wanted a bag, nothing..Pls retrain your employees to learn how to service people..
Kalleigh Chapman-JelfGoogle Maps
Recently
The machine wasn’t working for my little sisters card so I used Apple Pay and it still wasn’t working. Atleast she had let us attempt it 10 times but she kept saying “ omg what did you do to my card reader” implying that we broke it. It was not very professional of her to be honest. Didn’t wanna make a big deal out of it but not very good customer service. I’ve been in that situation before as a cashier and in high stress and still didn’t try to say the customer broke my stuff.
Elmer SolisGoogle Maps
Recently
It’s been a few times that I have stopped by this Minitstop and I can’t buy what I came to buy because they don’t have the “correct piece of chicken”. I’m not sure if this is just a stupid policy or the employees just don’t care, but instead of offering to substitute a piece of chicken they rather not make a sale. I went in today for some chicken, but because they had no drumsticks and one of the 3 pieces that comes in that combo is a drumstick, they wouldn’t substitute for another piece. They just rather not make a sale. 🤯 As a business owner myself this makes absolutely no sense. A few months ago when I asked the girl at the laupahoehoe store if I can just pay the difference she said she could only sell me an a la cart piece. Meaning that not only was she not going to give me a full order, she wanted to charge me for whatever other piece I got. Either take the partial meal or pay for it 🤦♂️ Your store has so much potential located where it’s at. Love the chicken!!! Don’t change that please lol
A DominicGoogle Maps
Recently
For the amount of crispy, fried, and spicy entrees, and other gas station food, not to mention massive assortment of drinks it’s pretty low key cruel not to have a restroom like every successful pit stop that makes all of their profit on the patronage of snacks and drinks.
MonaLisa AnnGoogle Maps
Recently
I literally just go there for possibly some drinks and some of the potato wedges. They are literally the best potato wedges that you’ve ever had. At least they are for me. I would definitely recommend this place. Definitely always hot and fresh!
Jennifer BraudwayGoogle Maps
Recently
Worst gas station. No bathroom for customers. Gas and food is grossly over priced compared to nearby gas stations. Rude customer service. Had to ask for a bag for my items. I had more than 5 items. Do not stop here.
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