Located in the heart of Stratford, Panda House has become a celebrated destination for lovers of authentic Chinese cuisine. The menu at Panda House Stratford offers a vibrant mix of traditional and contemporary dishes, carefully crafted to satisfy a wide range of palates.
Whether you’re visiting for a quick lunch or a leisurely dinner, the menu promises a culinary journey through the rich flavors and textures of Chinese cooking. From delicate dim sum to hearty main courses, every dish is prepared with fresh ingredients and a passion for quality that shines through in every bite.
What sets Panda House apart is its commitment to balancing authenticity with innovation. The menu caters not only to those seeking classic favorites but also to adventurous diners eager to explore lesser-known regional specialties.
The atmosphere complements the food perfectly, creating a welcoming environment where the aromas, tastes, and presentation come together to offer a memorable dining experience. Whether dining solo, with family, or friends, the Panda House Stratford menu invites you to indulge in a feast that celebrates tradition, freshness, and the artistry of Chinese cuisine.
Appetizers and Starters
The appetizer section at Panda House Stratford serves as a gateway to the meal, offering a variety of small plates designed to awaken the palate. These starters range from crispy fried delights to delicately steamed bites, all embodying the rich textures and bold flavors typical of Chinese cuisine.
They are perfect for sharing or as a light introduction before the main courses arrive.
Among the most popular starters are the crispy spring rolls and the classic prawn toast. The spring rolls are filled with a savory mixture of vegetables and minced pork, wrapped in a golden, crunchy shell.
Prawn toast, on the other hand, provides a delightful contrast with its soft, creamy center and crispy exterior, often accompanied by a sweet chili dipping sauce that enhances its flavor.
- Spring Rolls: Crispy pastry filled with seasoned vegetables and pork
- Prawn Toast: Toast topped with minced prawns, fried to perfection
- Salt and Pepper Squid: Lightly battered squid seasoned with salt and pepper
- Steamed Dumplings: Delicate dumplings filled with pork or vegetables
Signature Starter: Salt and Pepper Squid
The salt and pepper squid at Panda House is a standout dish in the appetizer category. The squid is expertly battered and fried until crisp, then tossed with a fragrant blend of salt, pepper, and finely chopped chili peppers.
This combination creates a perfect balance of heat and savoriness that excites the taste buds without overwhelming them.
“The salt and pepper squid is a must-try — crispy, flavorful, and perfectly seasoned every time.” – Local Food Critic
This dish pairs wonderfully with a cold beverage and is often the first to disappear from the table during group meals. Its texture and seasoning showcase the chef’s skill in balancing simple ingredients to create a memorable starter.
Dim Sum Delicacies
Dim sum holds a special place on the Panda House Stratford menu, offering a variety of bite-sized options that are both flavorful and visually appealing. These dishes are traditionally served in small steamer baskets or on small plates, making them ideal for sharing and sampling multiple varieties.
Dim sum at Panda House encompasses a broad spectrum of fillings and cooking styles, from steamed dumplings bursting with juicy pork and shrimp to baked buns filled with sweet custard. Each item is crafted with attention to detail, ensuring a perfect harmony between texture and taste.
- Har Gow: Steamed prawn dumplings with translucent wrappers
- Siu Mai: Open-topped pork and shrimp dumplings
- Char Siu Bao: Soft buns filled with sweet barbecued pork
- Egg Custard Tarts: Flaky pastry filled with smooth egg custard
Steamed vs. Baked Dim Sum
| Dim Sum Style | Texture | Popular Items |
| Steamed | Soft, tender, moist | Har Gow, Siu Mai |
| Baked | Flaky, crisp, golden | Char Siu Bao, Egg Custard Tarts |
Understanding the difference in cooking methods enhances the dim sum experience, allowing diners to appreciate the subtle nuances in texture and flavor that each method brings. Panda House excels in both, making it a perfect place to explore this beloved Chinese tradition.
Main Courses: Classic Chinese Favorites
The main course offerings at Panda House Stratford are a celebration of well-known Chinese dishes prepared with authentic techniques and fresh ingredients. These dishes provide hearty, satisfying options that appeal to both traditionalists and those new to Chinese cuisine alike.
Signature dishes such as Kung Pao Chicken and Beef with Black Bean Sauce highlight the menu’s commitment to bold flavors and balanced seasoning. Each main course is served with steamed jasmine rice or fried rice, providing a perfect accompaniment to the rich sauces and tender meats.
- Kung Pao Chicken: Spicy stir-fried chicken with peanuts and chili peppers
- Beef with Black Bean Sauce: Tender beef strips cooked in savory fermented black bean sauce
- Sweet and Sour Pork: Crispy pork pieces tossed in a tangy sauce with pineapple
- Vegetable Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with fresh vegetables
Exploring Regional Flavors
Panda House’s menu reflects the diversity of Chinese cuisine by incorporating dishes from different regions such as Sichuan, Cantonese, and Shanghai styles. The Sichuan dishes bring a characteristic spiciness and bold seasoning, while Cantonese dishes emphasize freshness and subtlety.
“Panda House’s main courses capture the essence of regional Chinese cooking, making every bite a unique experience.” – Culinary Enthusiast
Whether you prefer the fiery heat of Sichuan peppercorns or the light, fragrant flavors of Cantonese stir-fries, there is something to delight every palate. The chefs take care to preserve the authenticity of each dish, ensuring that diners receive an experience that is both genuine and delicious.
Seafood Selections
Seafood plays a prominent role at Panda House Stratford, with a dedicated section on the menu that highlights the freshest catches and most popular preparations. From delicate steamed fish to richly flavored prawn dishes, the seafood selections offer a balance of lightness and depth.
One of the standout dishes is the Steamed Sea Bass with Ginger and Spring Onion, a classic Cantonese preparation that emphasizes the natural sweetness of the fish. The menu also features crispy salt and pepper prawns, which provide a textural contrast and a burst of flavor.
- Steamed Sea Bass: Fresh fish steamed with ginger and spring onions
- Salt and Pepper Prawns: Deep-fried prawns seasoned with salt and pepper
- Crab Fried Rice: Wok-fried rice with fresh crab meat and egg
- Sichuan Spicy Fish: Fish fillets cooked in a spicy chili oil sauce
Nutritional Benefits of Seafood
| Dish | Calories (per serving) | Key Nutrients |
| Steamed Sea Bass | 220 | Omega-3, Protein, Vitamin D |
| Salt and Pepper Prawns | 320 | Protein, Selenium, Vitamin B12 |
| Crab Fried Rice | 450 | Protein, Zinc, Carbohydrates |
Choosing seafood at Panda House not only indulges the senses but also offers a nutritious option for those mindful of their diet. The preparation methods focus on enhancing flavor without unnecessary heaviness, making these dishes both tasty and wholesome.
Vegetarian and Vegan Options
Panda House Stratford thoughtfully includes a variety of vegetarian and vegan dishes that showcase the versatility of Chinese cuisine. These options are designed to satisfy plant-based diets without compromising on flavor or texture.
From hearty tofu stir-fries to vegetable-packed noodle dishes, the menu provides a rich selection for diners seeking meat-free options. The use of fresh, seasonal vegetables combined with traditional sauces ensures each dish is vibrant and full of character.
- Mapo Tofu (Vegan): Silken tofu in a spicy chili and bean sauce
- Vegetable Spring Rolls: Crispy rolls filled with mixed vegetables
- Stir-Fried Mixed Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables cooked with garlic and soy sauce
- Vegetable Fried Rice: Fried rice with peas, carrots, and spring onions
Plant-Based Protein Choices
Tofu, mushrooms, and a variety of legumes are prominently featured in the vegetarian and vegan dishes. These ingredients are not only nutritious but also absorb the rich flavors of the sauces, making the dishes satisfying and complex.
“The vegetarian options at Panda House prove that plant-based eating can be both delicious and exciting.” – Local Vegan Blogger
Whether you are a committed vegan or simply looking to reduce meat consumption, Panda House’s menu offers diverse choices that celebrate the depth of Chinese vegetable cuisine. The kitchen is also happy to accommodate dietary restrictions upon request, ensuring a pleasant dining experience for all.
Noodle and Rice Specialties
The noodle and rice section of the menu reflects the staples of Chinese dining, offering a variety of comforting and flavorful dishes. These items are perfect as either main courses or accompaniments, providing a satisfying base for the meal.
From classic chow mein to fragrant egg fried rice, the dishes are prepared with skill and attention to authentic flavors. Panda House uses high-quality rice and noodles, ensuring a perfect texture and taste every time.
- Chicken Chow Mein: Stir-fried noodles with chicken and vegetables
- Yangzhou Fried Rice: Fried rice with shrimp, pork, and vegetables
- Beef Lo Mein: Soft noodles tossed with tender beef strips
- Vegetable Fried Rice: A vegetarian favorite with a medley of fresh vegetables
Comparing Popular Rice Dishes
| Dish | Main Ingredients | Flavor Profile |
| Yangzhou Fried Rice | Shrimp, pork, peas, egg | Savory, slightly sweet, umami-rich |
| Vegetable Fried Rice | Carrots, peas, spring onions | Light, fresh, mildly seasoned |
| Egg Fried Rice | Egg, spring onions | Simple, comforting, slightly oily |
These dishes offer a range of flavors and textures that complement the rest of the menu. Whether you prefer the protein-rich Yangzhou fried rice or the lighter vegetable fried rice, the quality of ingredients and cooking methods shine through consistently.
Desserts and Refreshments
To round off the meal, Panda House Stratford offers a selection of traditional Chinese desserts and refreshing beverages. These sweet treats provide a perfect conclusion to a flavorful dining experience and reflect the delicate balance of sweetness and texture found in Chinese sweets.
The dessert menu includes items like mango pudding and sesame balls, both of which are beloved for their unique textures and subtle sweetness. The beverage options feature classic teas and soft drinks to complement the meal without overpowering the palate.
- Mango Pudding: Smooth, creamy pudding made with fresh mango
- Sesame Balls: Deep-fried glutinous rice balls with sweet red bean filling
- Green Tea: Fragrant and cleansing, perfect for digestion
- Chrysanthemum Tea: Floral and refreshing herbal tea
Popular Dessert Pairings
“A cup of warm green tea alongside the mango pudding is the perfect way to end a meal at Panda House.” – Frequent Diner
The desserts at Panda House are designed to be light and refreshing, providing a gentle sweetness that complements the often rich and savory flavors of the main courses. The careful balance of ingredients ensures that diners leave with both satisfaction and a desire to return.
Conclusion
The Panda House Stratford menu offers an impressive array of dishes that cater to a wide variety of tastes and preferences. From starters that awaken the appetite to hearty mains and delicate desserts, every item is thoughtfully prepared with an emphasis on authenticity and quality.
The diverse offerings reflect the rich culinary heritage of China while inviting diners to explore new flavors and textures in a welcoming atmosphere.
Whether you are a fan of spicy Sichuan dishes, Cantonese dim sum, or fresh seafood, Panda House provides a well-rounded dining experience that stands out in Stratford’s vibrant food scene. The menu’s balance between traditional favorites and innovative creations ensures that every visit feels fresh and exciting.
With attentive service and a commitment to culinary excellence, Panda House Stratford remains a top choice for those seeking genuine Chinese cuisine in a comfortable and inviting setting.
In essence, the menu is a celebration of Chinese gastronomy, inviting guests to savor every dish with appreciation for the skill and passion behind it. Whether dining alone or with a group, the Panda House Stratford menu promises a memorable meal that delights the senses and honors the rich traditions of Chinese cooking.
