In the vibrant and diverse culinary landscape of Florida, buffets have long held a special place in the hearts of many diners. Offering an array of choices at a reasonable price, buffets like Golden Panda have become go-to spots for families, groups, and individuals looking to indulge in a variety of dishes in one sitting. However, the recent closure of the popular Golden Panda buffet has stirred a mix of emotions among its loyal patrons.
Golden Panda, known for its affordable Chinese buffet priced at just $9.99, was a cherished establishment in Zephyrhills, Florida. Despite lacking a robust online presence, it garnered positive reviews for its decent selection and welcoming atmosphere. Customers appreciated the value, quality of food, and the kid-friendly environment, with one reviewer noting the cleanliness of the old building and the pleasant demeanor of the staff.
The turning point for Golden Panda came after a state inspection conducted on January 23, 2024, by The Tallahassee Democrat’s database. The inspection revealed a total of 20 violations, ranging from basic issues like an employee’s failure to wear a hair net and standing water in the kitchen to more severe concerns such as the discovery of 90 live cockroaches under a workstation. High-priority violations also included the operation of the establishment following the issuance of an Emergency Order of Suspension of License, signaling significant health and safety concerns.