Panda Express to open in Turlock with new store design. See what makes it different

Panda Express may not be new to Turlock, but the fast-food chain’s updated store design is.

Called “Panda Home,” the new model incorporates design elements inspired by traditional Chinese architecture and traditions with modern motifs that tell the unique story of Panda Express, according to a news release from the company.

The newest Turlock location, at 199 W. Canal Drive, will have its grand opening Tuesday. The first 88 guests will receive a free Panda Express T-shirt.

“Panda recognizes consumer habits have changed over the last three years, and to meet the needs of guests’ evolved lifestyles, the updated store design creates efficiencies for operators and diners to accommodate the increased demand for online ordering and drive-thru channels,” the release says.

The store’s hours are Sunday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 10 p.m. (drive-thru open until 10:30 p.m.), and Friday through Saturday from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. (drive-thru open until 11 p.m.).

Panda Express is hiring service and kitchen team associates. Wages start at $21 per hour for all front-of-house hires and $22 per hour for all back-of-house hires.

Applications are accepted online or in the store once it opens.

Elsewhere in Turlock

Hummus Republic, a Mediterranean health food chain, is filling the last vacant spot in the Warrior Crossing shopping center.

The chain restaurant’s menu features build-your-own options including wraps, pitas and bowls. Customers can choose a base (garbanzo bans, couscous, etc.), up to three hummus and spread options, a protein, unlimited toppings and a dressing.

There is no indication of when the 1207 W. Monte Vista Ave. location will open, and a routine opening inspection that was attempted by the Stanislaus County Environmental Resources Department on April 4 was canceled by the requesting party.

Modesto also will get a Hummus Republic at some point, according to the restaurant’s website .