Gardens Mall Dining That Delivers - P.F. Chang's Asian Flair
Tucked away in Palm Beach Gardens' premier open-air shopping destination The Gardens Mall is a P.F. Chang's location that stands out from the rest of this popular pan-Asian chain. Beyond boasting the brand's signature made-to-order Chinese fare and cocktails in a modern yet inviting atmosphere, this outpost channels the surrounding high-end ambiance into a dining experience bursting with warmth and flair.
As soon as I walked through the entrance beneath the trademark horse statue, the blended smells of wok-seared entrees and exotic spices promised a tantalizing culinary journey. The trendy bar area caught my eye, but for this visit I was focused on the main dining room - with its dark woods, fabrics in rich golds and crimsons, and pops of colorful Chinese artworks.
P.F. Chang's History of Authentic Asian Cuisine
Before delving into the Palm Beach Gardens location's unique offerings, let's take a quick look at how the P.F. Chang's brand transformed Chinese food in America since its founding in 1993. Dedicated to using high-quality ingredients to craft made-from-scratch dishes, P.F. Chang's popularity has steadily risen from its first restaurant in Scottsdale, AZ across hundreds of locations today.
While staying true to culinary tradition, each outpost also reflects local flair - much like what I discovered at The Gardens Mall in dishes, drinks and ambiance.
Diverse Shareables and Entrees Satisfying Every Craving
Whether in the mood for lunch with friends or a family dinner, P.F. Chang's extensive menu ensures everyone's tastes are covered. For starters don't miss Chang's Chicken Lettuce Wraps, with well-seasoned chicken sauteed with mushrooms and water chestnuts served alongside cool, crisp lettuce cups and sweet and spicy sauce for wrapping and dipping.
Dumplings are another classic way to kick things off. The Pork Xiao Long Bao with a piping hot pork and crabmeat filling encased in delicate dough definitely did not disappoint. Seafood lovers can dive into lightly fried Lobster and Ginger Dumplings or wok-charred Bamboo Floored Australian Barramundi.
House Specialties Spotlighting Authentic Chinese Techniques
It was hard to choose from all the house specialties, but I finally settled on the Chang's Spicy Chicken. This dish highlights P.F. Chang's mastery over the wok, perfectly searing plump chicken morsels coated in a sweet, slightly spicy glaze along with toasted garlic, cabbage and red chili peppers. For a contrast of flavors and textures, I added an order of Shanghai-style Noodle and Lobster Glass Noodles.
The Mongolian Beef, Kung Pao Chicken and lemon-accented Chicken Lemon Sauce also beckoned - so I already have ideas for my next visit! Those wanting to skip meat altogether have plenty of full-flavored vegetarian and vegan options as well, like Vegetable Lo Mein or Eggplant Garlic Sauce.
Cocktail Bar Offering Unique Asian Fusion Libations
While the food shined at Palm Beach Garden's P.F. Chang's, the drinks menu also enticed. The cocktail list isn't one typically found at other locations. Clever concoctions like the Lychee Red Snapper, Nectar Mint Drop or Lady Mei's Melon Mixer incorporate Asian flavors into refreshing coolers.
I ultimately chose The Ancient Spice - a fittingly fiery mix of Avion Silver tequila, Mathilde orange liqueur, ginger, cayenne pepper and lime juice. If planning a late afternoon or pre-dinner drink, P.F Chang's also offers a daily Happy Hour from 3-7pm featuring food and drinks specials like $3 lettuce wraps, $5 dumplings and $7 signature cocktails.
Upscale Yet Family-Friendly Atmosphere
Despite its prime position in Palm Beach County's top shopping destination, P.F Chang's welcoming service and flexible menu make it family-friendly. Kids can choose from a range of stir-fries, rice bowls and chicken dishes to suit their preference and parents can enjoy a cocktail or glass of wine.
Groups looking for a unique dining option before a mall crawl will also appreciate the spacious, artfully designed dining room and lounge - whether indulging in happy hour bites or a full multi-course dinner.
What sets this P.F. Chang's apart from other outposts in South Florida and nationwide? Here are a few of my top takeaways after my satisfying inaugural visit:
- Part of one of Palm Beach County's top shopping/dining destinations - The Gardens Mall
- Inventive Asian fusion cocktails you won't find on most P.F Chang's menus
- Intimate yet lively ambiance blending modern and classic Chinese decor
- Attentive yet unintrusive service catering to all guests' needs
Craving an Asian cuisine fix with a side of warmth and flair? Add P.F. Chang's at The Gardens Mall in Palm Beach Gardens to the top of your must-try list. Just be ready to spend hours immersed in the complementary flavors of Chinese cooking tradition and modern culinary creativity.