Like so many national food chains, Panda Express is pretty much the same all over. That said, either you like them or do not.
Here in Scottsdale, we have many alternatives to Panda Express.
You have The Red Door, Ling and Louie, PF Chang's, Jade Palace, Pei Wei (similar in many ways to Panda Express), George & Sons, to name just a few; or even Flo's which is across the street from this location. So, the choices are pretty much endless.
The key, I believe in seeking out Panda Express is convenience and time. Sit down restaurants involve time. Both in travel, but also ordering and waiting for the food to be prepared and served. Yes, I know most of these restaurants have takeout. What Chinese restaurant doesn't have takeout? But here, you come in, point at a few items behind the glass, pay and you're on your way. -- and their prices are very reasonable.
If you have a limited lunch hour, or in reality a half hour, then Panda Express becomes a very reasonable alternative for those of us who eat at our desks.
In the end, the food is universally good -- not NYC Chinatown Five stars good, but fast food Chinese Three Stars, "A-Okay" good.
Enjoy!