Wednesday, 
August 6, 2025

Bites and Sights

Munch on tasty snacks after you visit Denny Sanford Panda Ridge 

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yun chuan the giant panda eating bamboo

Connecting with giant pandas as they climb, lounge, and chow down on bamboo really works up an appetite. You might not be hungry for fresh leaves, shoots, and stems like Xin Bao and Yun Chuan, so we’ve got you covered with endless dining possibilities.

Exploring Panda Ridge really works up an appetite, and there's plenty of options to choose from that will satisfy every craving. 

When you emerge from the lush, leafy forest of the San Diego Zoo's Panda Ridge, you’ll find options that cater to your every craving. Just as you exit the habitat, you’ll spot Panda Pagoda where you can refill your popcorn bucket and grab other snacks like a dipped frozen banana and mango sticky rice to fuel your adventures. Or visit the nearby Bamboo Bar for craft beers, specialty cocktails, and light snacks that will tempt your taste buds. Each location has its own handcrafted menu items, so there's something for everyone to enjoy.

Hua Mei Café has mouthwatering offerings inspired by Asian cuisine. 

If you need heartier fare, indulge in delectable flavors at Hua Mei Café, offering Asian cuisine-inspired dishes, including orange chicken, Szechuan beef, lo mein noodles, and Asian sesame chicken salad. To follow it up with a sweet treat, wander over to Hua Mei Cones for their ultimate lineup of ice cream sundaes, cookies, and churros. They’re perfect for a sunny day, cozy afternoon, fun evening, or to take with you.

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food offerings from Albert's with waterfall in the background

Albert's pairs a serene ambiance with gourmet creations and classic dishes alike. 

Want to continue your day’s adventure beyond Asian Passage? Head up the elevator or take the stairs where even more deliciousness awaits. In the heart of the Zoo, Albert’s is a full-service restaurant and bar that pairs a relaxing ambiance—soothing waterfall included—with gourmet creations and classic dishes alike. The cheesy garlic bread and citrus chicken wings can’t be beat, plus you can kick off your weekend with Albert’s signature brunch. 

You can also keep it casual with grab-and-go sandwiches, salads, and wraps from Treetops Bistro, then round out your meal with drinks and desserts at Treetops Canteen

Giant pandas' diets are made up of 99% bamboo. See if you can spot the bears munching on it next time you stop by Panda Ridge. 

Whatever you’re in the mood for, prepare for an unforgettable experience filled with wonder, exploration, and lots of flavor on your next visit to the Zoo. Discover Panda Ridge, savor our culinary delights, and know that with your visit, you’re making a difference for wildlife across the globe. We can’t wait to see you soon!

 

Learn more how your visits are saving, protecting, and caring for these dynamic bears and other wildlife through our Asia Conservation Hub.

Offerings subject to change, hours and availability may vary.