Panda Express to Open on Harbison Boulevard
The new Columbia restaurant location will hold a grand opening ceremony featuring a ribbon cutting on October 28, 2026.
Updated on Oct. 27, 2026 in Openings & Closings
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Panda Express will celebrate the grand opening of its newest restaurant in Columbia at 225 Harbison Blvd on October 28, 2026. This site marks the fourth location for the chain within the Midlands area.
Why it matters
The expansion brings the chain's signature menu to a high-traffic retail corridor near Columbiana Station and the Columbiana Mall. This opening continues the brand's growth as it operates more than 2,500 locations across 11 countries.
This site is the fourth Panda Express in the Midlands area, adding to a global network that spans more than 2,500 locations in 11 countries. The restaurant will operate daily from 10:30 a.m. to 10 p.m., with extended hours until 11 p.m. on Thursdays.
The players
Panda Express
Founded in 1983 as a family-owned operation, this fast-casual restaurant chain specializes in American Chinese cuisine.
The details
The grand opening ceremony is scheduled to begin with a ribbon cutting at 9:30 a.m. Customers who purchase a plate or Bigger Plate at the new Harbison Boulevard restaurant will receive a complimentary Pei Pei blind box.
Timeline
October 28, 2026: The new restaurant will hold its grand opening ceremony.
9:30 a.m.: The official ribbon cutting ceremony will take place.
Market Landscape
The opening of this location aligns with the continued commercial development of the Harbison Boulevard retail hub in Columbia. By securing a spot near the Columbiana Mall and Columbiana Station, the company capitalizes on the existing high-traffic retail environment.
Local diners visiting the new location can participate in a grand opening promotion featuring blind box gifts with specific meal purchases. The restaurant provides a new option for those shopping or working near the Columbiana Mall and Harbison Boulevard.
The takeaway
This expansion provides residents and shoppers in the Midlands area with additional dining access near major retail landmarks. Visitors should plan to arrive for the 9:30 a.m. ribbon cutting if they wish to attend the grand opening festivities.
Further reading
For more on local retail growth, visit the Openings & Closings section.
Source note: This article includes information reported by Post and Courier.
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