They do not have the Spicy Korean at this location. I came in wanting to try something new. I issued get Pad Thai or Lo Mein, which I've always loved, but unfortunately they apparently don't and haven't (I was informed) has the Spicy Korean on the menu for a long time. The cash register, though I had to ask her and she didn't immediately recommend something comparable to the menu item they didn't not have, recommended the Kung Pao or the Pei Wei Spicy. I got the Kung Pao and an order of Crab Wontons. We'll see how this goes.
(4)
T A.
I can't say there is much on the menu here that isn't overpriced and cheap tasting "food". Now they are offering "sushi" which is laughable...extremely small and terrible. I wish this place would close down so a legit restaurant could take it's place.
(1)
Sal R.
Loved the food! I had the Pad Thai mmmmmm really good! I would definitely recommend this place to all my friends
(5)
C K.
I had the lettuce wraps on Wednesday and got food poisoning!! Need I say more!!
(1)
Youri L.
Never been a huge fan of the chain despite any friends who love it. Decided to order some take out at 7pm knowing there is a possibly long line and sure enough I arrive to find one. I go the register, it's now 7:20 give my name and I'm told there is no record of my order. Seriously? I'm now in line waiting another 15-20 minutes for their incompetence. Decent food perhaps it good service definitely not.
(2)
George H.
The entire chain has gone down. When they first introduced this concept- the food has flavor, ingredients were fresh & flavorful, and the staff was friendly. Nowadays, the Dan Dan noodle bowl taste like ramen noodles with a flavorless sauce and fried chicken. Even the paper napkins have been downgraded to cheap quality. Avoid this restaurant & chain at all costs!
(1)
Cindy S.
Do you enjoy cutting the roof of your mouth on burnt spring rolls? Slicing into my delicate palate is typically a cherished experience that lasts for days as I run my tongue over the loose flaps of skin left behind by the sharp edges of over-toasted sandwich bread; today my adoration for mouth injuries seems to be on a hiatus. My fickle love affair with Pei Wei ended the moment I discovered they discontinued the green coconut curry dish, however, I do occasionally break down for some tofu Pad Thai and the occasional crab won ton. The location on 7th Ave and McDowell is conveniently located and has become a place where I make emergency dining decisions. A mere month ago a friend of mine and I dined in for a business meeting and the service was so horrible and inconsistent with the menu description that the manager, Anthony, gave us a $10 gift card credit to use the next time we came in in addition to a comp of the dish in question. I appreciate that the management was willing to save a couple of potential repeat customers, kudos for that. Anthony, if you are still managing this location; please stop doing so many lines of cocaine during your break. Perhaps drinking on the job and soliciting young, impressionable cashiers is not the best use of your time. Whatever it is that you are doing Mr. or Ms. manager of Pei Wei Downtown Phoenix, please stop it at once and focus on the piss poor quality of food that you are cranking out on the regular. My Pad Thai was soggy, overcooked and flavorless. Unless they have recently updated their recipes, I would wager to say that this was sent back by an in-house patron and re-heated for my enjoyment. The potstickers were blackened around the edges and cooked to the point where the insides had shriveled to the size of a nickel. No matter how hungry I get, I will never in all of my days spend another dime in this establishment. Kthxbai xo
(1)
Amy S.
These guys are so amazing! I call and order for a group of 33 people and ask that the food be ready in a hour. Pei wei doesn't flinch a bit! "Absolutely!" They say..... Fantastic service! Delicious food! Amazing customer service! Thank you!
(5)
Angela P.
Worst service ever. In a group of 6 the first person to order received her food long after the rest of us. And the order was wrong.
(1)
Jose R.
Love pei wei but this particular locations lacks in service. They always seem Short staffed, food is slow to Come out and portions are smaller than other locations. Management really needs to step it up.
(2)
Alecia R.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Pei Wei, but this particular location, not so much. My friend and I ordered the chicken pad Thai, and chicken lettuce wraps. The chicken lettuce wraps were good, but the pad Thai was way too spicy for my liking. I've had the chicken pad Thai dozens of time from Pei Wei, and it has never been that spicy. When I told the ladies up front about it, they looked so annoyed and acted like I was wrong and dumb for even saying that. They came over and told us that the sauce is pre-made and always tastes that way so there was nothing they could do about it, when I know for a fact it doesn't ever taste like that. They offered to get us a side of rice or something but it didn't seem like they really meant it so we declined. If I go to Pei Wei again, I'll definitely go to a different one. Also, the soda machines were out of every flavor I wanted, they should work on changing things when they run out.
(2)
Lynnie N.
Definitely not authentic but if you're looking for authenticity, any chain restaurant isn't the way to go. Here's what I recommend getting: -Dynamite Chicken -Lettuce Wraps -Pad Thai (get tofu!) Don't get: -their sushi -their Kung pao chicken The flavors at Pei Wei are always good!
(4)
Sheena M.
After waiting on the phone as "caller number one" for almost 10 mins, I decided to drive in while still on hold...After getting parked and in line the casket FINALLY picked up my call. I ordered my food only to get home and it was WRONG. Avoid this location at all cost, I can't believe they screwed up my meal after all that.
(1)
Andrew K.
Tried something new today... first a Roast Pork Egg roll and then Spicy Korean Chicken. Now perhaps I am a bit of a Chinese (Asian) food snob being from NY NY however one thing you can take to the bank is this... DO NOT GET THE ROAST PORK EGG ROLL. Hands down the weakest by far I have ever had! So surprising as I have never known Pei Wei to have anything terrible and this my friends was terrible. OK, now the Spicy Korean Chicken. Really just OK. While beautiful looking and presented, flavor wise... just mediocre. Left feeling that something was missing... like perhaps a tinge more sweetness. While tonight's meal will by no means preclude me from coming back, I certainly learned tonight what Not to order.
(2)
Stephanie B.
I will never come back to this Pei Wei. I hope the lackluster food was just at the particular location because I would dislike to ex out an entire franchise. I've only been to Pei Wei once and that was years ago. The order process is already kinda weird so when I was ready to order, the girl asked me if I was dining in or ordering to go. I said to go and she says "well this is the dine in line but it's ok"...did she really need to tell me? There was no one else in the line so I wasn't holding anyone up AND she worked both lines so what the hell does it matter? The food from a scale to 1 to 10 was a 0. I've never ate food with no taste. The chicken was dry, the noodles had absolutely no seasoning. There was only so much soy sauce I could put, I mean I had to salvage the one pack that they gave me. Cheapness. If I wanted noodles with no taste, I could have boiled my own for free. Lesson learned. You guys will never get my business again!
Salty lattice wrap and kungpao beef. average food that tastes like a $6 buffet food quality.
(2)
Justin B.
This has nothing to do with the food , the only reason that this review is so-so is because of the parking lot . How the Hell can you combine a 20 car parking lot with a starbucks,a bar upstairs , and a very popular main stream resteraunt ??? Its stupid parking in this parking lot at 10-1 pm ...
(3)
Natalie L.
Thai chicken lettuce wraps are my favorite! I also always get their Thai dynamite sauce with beef or chicken with some white rice! YUM! I know the place is packed during lunch and service is a little slow so I usually go in the afternoon! the guy who delivers my food is so nice!
(5)
Juan E.
I just went here tonight and was disappointed that this particular location has the Spicy Korean dish off of their menu. I've been to other Pei Wei locations before and absolutely love the Steamed Spicy Korean Steak on brown rice. Because of that, I went for with something new. Tonight, I had Steamed Honey Seared Steak on brown rice. I chose this dish, because I like garlic sauce, scallions, and red bell peppers that it comes with. I never had rice sticks or had honey mixed with the sauce before. So I was curious how this dish would taste. It was pretty good. The service was spot on and quick. I would go here again, but next time would ask if they have the Spicy Korean dish still available. Next time, I would change it up by getting Steamed Spicy Korean Chicken on brown rice. I'll update with what the experience was.
(4)
Gabriel L.
I hadn't been here in a very long time so when my spouse suggested it I was pretty amped because the pei Wei I remember was always tasteful and satisfying. I walked in and I saw they served sushi so I thought I'd try it. God no. It tasted worse than the frys brand with that imitation crab. I sent it back and asked for a side of chicken, the manager looked annoyed but took it back anyway. A few minutes after receiving my chicken, I dropped a drink accidentally. My fault, yes, but when I went to ask the server for a towel, he actually gave me one and made me clean the table up myself. I then went to ask for a second one because the floor was still wet, which is when another employee stepped in and starting cleaning it. I then went to ask for boxes for our food because that visit was pretty horrible. Instead of going to get my boxes, the kid that made me clean up the drink went to tell the "manager" I spilled a drink and she threw her hands up in the air as if the world had ended. I'm sure this isn't the first or last time someone spills a drink lady. Learn some customer service skills. So I sat there, and waited and waited and waited for my boxes. I stopped him and asked him where my boxes were, "oh sorry I forgot." Maybe you wouldn't have forgotten if you weren't busy gossiping. So in conclusion, the sushi is disgusting, like I literally had to spit it out after trying to force myself to eat it and the service was horrible. The manager should rethink customer service at a restaurant with her attitude.
(2)
E Paul L.
Stop in at Pei Wei for lunch or dinner. ALWAYS TASTY, CLEAN and REPUTABLE. I prefer their McDowell and 7th Ave location. Cashew Chicken is SUPERB.
(4)
Mark G.
Fast service and friendly staff. The staff is always smiling and food always arrives fast!
(5)
Alejandra B.
Omg this place is awesome to just get out of the house and have some Asian food (with the kids too!) In Arizona is almost always hot, but I looove coming here at night and sitting outside. The only thing that's bad is the parking, but there's not much they can do about it. The good thing is that people are always coming and going so just give it a min and something will pop up. But 80% of the time there's plenty of parking space in the evening. Definitely recommend this location to anyone in Phoenix!
(5)
Patty O.
Expensive chain restaurant. If you're in the mood for stir fry, there are worse options. They have a neat spin on some things. I've been a few times and they've had good service and been clean every time. I'll be back.
(4)
Katherine C.
I haven't been to this location before, but I didn't think twice before placing my Pick-Up order because of all the great experiences and food I've had at other locations. Yikes -- it did NOT turn out as I expected!! I ordered two Vietnamese chicken rolls and 1/2 order of sushi rolls (it had mango in it, but I can't remember the name for some reason). This location doesn't take online orders, and the wait time on the phone was about 15 minutes. My order was ready for pick-up on time (but warning, parking is hard around the lunch hour). I grabbed my bag of food, headed back to the office, and was surprised when I opened the box of Vietnamese rolls. One of the rolls was split down the middle and falling apart. Bummer. I used a fork to eat it, and opaque liquid dripped off the pieces that I forked up. Gross. I then noticed that, instead of peanut sauce, they gave me sesame ginger vinaigrette that is meant for a salad (I think). What!? The second roll was falling apart from excessive liquid, too. But, what was worse, was the FISHY taste when I bit into it. THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE CHICKEN! I dug through the roll to find that it was made with what appeared to be a white fish. It flaked like fish, looked like fish, and tasted like fish. Dear G-d, I hope it was fish. Now I'm totally grossed out and will NOT eat from this location again. I gave this review two stars instead of one because I think every place deserves a second chance (sometimes crap happens).... I just can't get this fishy taste out of my mouth, and I'm too freaked out to eat there again.
(2)
Brad H.
I don't know what's going on with the management of this location, but it seems to be going downhill quickly. We stopped in last night for what should have been a quick bite on our way to the theater. However, what would have been a quick bite turned into a long time waiting for our food. And it wasn't just us, everyone around us was commenting on how long it was taking for food to come out of the kitchen. Now, since it's open, I could that there were plenty of people back there so I'm not sure why it took so long, but it certainly did. Now, if you're going to compete in the fast, casual, restaurant market, you need to nail the fast part. When this Pei Wei was new, maybe they could get away with it, seeing as the only nearby competition was the (now gone) My Florist Cafe, but now that there is a Habit Burger, Chipotle, Pot Belly Sandwiches, and On a Roll within walking distance the management of Pei Wei need to get their act together. Also, the last time we were at this location, they completely screwed up our order and brought us the wrong dishes. Get it together Pei Wei!
(2)
Katelyn S.
Just ordered the small Thai Dynamite with chicken and my plate came with 5 lumps of meat. After spending $7 I figured I would at least get a decent meal. A small shouldn't automatically mean meager.
(1)
Gina H.
We came in 2 minutes before closing and they helped us with a smile! They didn't even try and kick us out after 40 minutes. Good was great, fast and fresh. Would come here again because they where so nice to still serve us.
(5)
+TheGeneralofHope +.
My dining experience today was fabulous! The Asian-fusion menu was fun and colorful to choose from. The parking was tight but the meal was worth it. Service was great and efficient. The food is worthy and cost about as much as Applebee's. I will return - Solid!
(5)
Jennifer S.
When you walk in, they take your order right away and they give you a number. Then you get to choose where you want to sit. They have booths and tables and a really neat drink machine where you can mix your drinks easily using a high-technology type of drink dispenser. As an Asian, this place is not your typical Asian food. It's very Americanized Asian food and is a favorite of my friends who are not Asian. I don't enjoy the noodle dishes, but I did enjoy the new "Korean Steak Lettuce Wrap". It was very salty, but full of flavor. If you like very flavorful food and you want to eat a little healthier... well kind of try, try out this dish. Overall, not my favorite place, but it's good. BTW, be careful when parking. This place can be a challenge when trying to find a parking spot as it gets superful due to the complex sharing it with starbucks. I would go during off hours and if you go during popular hours, look twice when backing out.
(3)
Michael K.
This place is back to being a normal Pei Wei for those who are concerned. With that said, I'm not really sure what niche Pei Wei occupies. If I want Asian fast food, I'd rather get Panda Express which is simultaneously cheaper, tastier, and healthier. If I'm willing to spend more is rather just go to a normal Asian restaurant. I was never a fan of Pei Wei in Tucson but decided to give this location a shot since I had a coupon for a free meal. I got a cup of the Thai wonton soup, which was fairly tasty but for 1.99 it looked like enough to fill maybe a tea cup. For an entree I tried the spicy Korean with shrimp and white rice. The whole meal was basically a flavorless morass. Two stars for good customer service and fortune cookies but would not go back on my own.
(2)
Jorge M.
What happened to Pei Wei they used to bring the food to your table at the same time and this is the second time that the food trickles down. My partner is half way done and I'm not served yet. Their customer service is down big time :(
(2)
Aimee H.
I am conflicted between two and four stars, so logically I went with three. I do love me some Pei Wei, for several reasons. They are usually very conveniently located, you can order online, everything is yummy, they are very consistent (what you had tasted last week will be the same the next), and their quality is very good. They even have some options for reducing the calories on your favorite entrees. That being said I am clearly a fan, however this location has let me down a few times. Nothing major, you just might want to double check your bag before leaving with your take out. I requested some soy sauce and sweet and sour sauce to go with my food, he assured me they were in the bag, I took his word for it, went on my way and was very disappointed when I got home, mouth watering from the smell that enveloped my car, and saw NO sauce, of either flavor. I was out out of soy sauce at home, so my rice was a little sad. I am not a huge fan of their sweet and sour sauce anyhow, so that wasn't a huge let down. My faves are the lettuce wraps (DUH!), crab wontons (very crabby, fake krab but whatev), honey seared chicken (sweet), Mongolian beef (green onions are great), and Jon likes the sweet and sour chicken (good veggies).
(3)
Marcella C.
Last night we ate at this pei Wei. We got there kinda late and when we went to order they were out of the sushi rolls that we wanted. We went ahead and ordered what they had and a meal. The manager brought part of our food out and apologized again for being out of what we had ordered as well. Asked us what else we would like on the house. The food was excellent as always and the management was more then accommodating. We will defiantly be going back
(4)
Joseph C.
Have tried this place 3 times now. The food is drowned in sauce, chicken is tough and vegetables are either undercooked or way overcooked (broccoli). Don't waste your money. Certainly nothing like PF Changs in taste. Go to Blue Fin for fast great Asian food nearby.
(1)
Ryan L.
Good food, but the parking situation is horrible. Try to avoid lunch time during the work week, but if you need your fix during the rush it's best to call ahead or place your order online.
(3)
Joe X.
Ok it is getting better but needs some work. They run out of stuff way too often. The food is consistent quality though.
(4)
Alejandro L.
Terrible service. They lost my order and took 30 minutes to remake it. Do not waste your time coming to this poorly run establishment.
(1)
Amanda S.
We eat at Pei Wei quite frequently and this location was, by far, the worst. We went fairly late on a Saturday night so, while they were busy, they weren't THAT busy. We waited over 15 minutes for our food - which they brought out separately. My husband's arrived. Then mine. Then my niece's. These were not spaced out by 1 minute - we're talking 3-5 minutes. That is a long time for food to sit and get cold if you are being polite and waiting for others to eat. I ordered the diner select honey seared chicken like I *always* do. When it arrived, I counted my chicken pieces. That's right - there were so few I counted them. I had exactly 5 little chicken morsels (about the size of a piece of popcorn chicken) for my $6.50 + drink dinner. I think I could have done better at Panda, thanks, and your quality isn't THAT much better that I would turn my nose up at Panda to eat your 5 chicken bites. DH was okay with his steak - although in my opinion there wasn't enough of that either. Overall we'll keep going to Pei Wei, but the 7th Avenue location is off our list.
(1)
Michael F.
I give Pei Wei thumbs up because the dishes are good for a chain. Because of my social circle, I've eaten here a lot in the past year. I feel that the dishes here are healthy and well presented. Pretty much everything can be made with just tofu and vegetables. However be sure to ask since some dishes are not complete vegetarian, they are cooked in oysters sauce. I love the fact that they have Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Thai food here, but where is Filipino? It would be great if they add Vegetarian Adobo or Pancit Noodles. Those can be made vegetarian or even vegan. I think the staff here is very nice, the food is reasonably priced and the establishment is clean. You know another good thing about this particular location? You can pick up the free wi-fi from Starbucks next door.
(5)
Andrew F.
This used to be a 5 star location. My wife and I would eat at this restaurant or pick up from it almost once a week. The last couple months have been a different story, however. Food quality has dropped, wait times have been crazy, and now they don't pick up the phone. I ordered online once, and it took over 45 minutes to get an order that was only supped to take 10 minutes. After waiting in the store for 30 minutes, I located my bag of food sitting in the corner and had to ask the employee to hand it to me (food was very cold). The lady working the counter was also very rude. Another time, I also spent 12 minutes on hold, even though the phone system told me I was the next call to be answered. I have been really let down by this location. You also can't seem to trust their gluten free food anymore, as my wife has been having problems after eating their food.
(2)
Laura G.
BOMB this place is my spot, you get a lot of food for your money. the vietnamise chicken salad rolls are so bomb. love the chill music. and the interior its pretty cool and chill also. i come here like every other week. BOMB!
(5)
Richard R.
Like it's big brother PF Chang's, Pei Wei really isn't anything special. I'm always perplexed by the way a lot people rave about it. I eat at this location once in a great while because it's very close to work. I can order food online, and the amount of time it takes to get to my car and drive over is exacly the time it's supposed to be ready. But the truth about all these chain Asian places is that pretty much every meal tastes similar, and nothing is all that great. Overall, it feels like a slightly higher quality version of fast food. I ordered the Orange Peel Chicken. It has a little bit of a kick from chili peppers, but to label it as "spicy" on the menu is a joke. The sauce was okay, but like I said earlier, nothing spectacular. Like most chains, it kind of has that "out of box" taste. I'll give Pei Wei credit for good prices and portion sizes. I also love that brown rice is an option. The online ordering is also convenient and easy. The people who work at the take out counter are quick and friendly (although they never put napkins in the bag unless you ask, that should be standard). Pei Wei is the definition of A-OK, but if I'm looking for more than a quick meal, there's too many good local Asian restaurants that are worth checking out first.
(3)
Leonilo W.
Pei Wei Combo! Need I say more? :)
(4)
Amanda P.
Its the fast food version of PF Changs
(3)
Daniel G.
Food was brought to table very quickly, staff was friendly and efficient, and my kung pao chicken was piping hot and enjoyable. Not top notch in the flavor department, but far from bad. Also, Pei Wei's has the coolest soda fountain around, with about 2 bazillion soda flavors. The place is clean, and the restrooms are well-kept. And despite all the complaining about parking space, at 6 pm tonite (a Saturday) there was a couple of open parking spaces. And this is probably the safest restaurant in the city of Phoenix - there was 8 uniformed Phoenix Police Officers (and god knows how many detectives!) in the dining room this evening.
(4)
Kurdy S.
If you are in the working vicinity of 7th Ave & McDowell Rd and have a craving for cheap and tasty ASIAN, this is the spot to grab lunch during M-F. First off, it is faaaar from being authentic Asian. The menu comprise of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai inspiration. For a full meal with drink, the average cost is $9-10. The 'Noodle and Rice Bowls' is going to be your bang for your buck dishes. My favorites are Pad Thai and Fried Rice. Very tasty! No matter how big my appetite is, I always end up boxing it later, but it'll make a great snack later!! :) My other favorite is the Mongolian Beef! Very tasty!! The keyword is TASTY! not Authentic, but TASTY! If you are not familiar, most dishes come with WHITE or BROWN rice. The flavor and ultimate concept is to please the general taste bud who adores Chinese and Japanese food without the exotic ingredients. Simple Asian packed with TASTY flavors! If you seek authentic Chinese or Japanese, then you need to Yelp else where! That is the only caveat! ;-) Also, this particular location is ALWAYS packed during lunch time. ALWAYS! So expect a line between 11am and 12pm. Parking is going to be very scarce too during this peak time!
(4)
Kelvin H.
Ordered online and my food was ready, hot, and delicious. Cute girl behind the counter was very sweet and efficient. Love Pei Wei every now and then they are a bit pricy for the amount of "protein" to rice equation. Other then that. Its Fabulosity.
(3)
Nora V.
This Pei Wei is consistant with it's orders being correct & clean. My one wish is that the parking lot it shares with Starbucks & Sidebar were about 15 cars larger. I don't see that happening but a girl can wish can't she?
(3)
David L.
This location is visually seductive. Their version of the vegetable spring rolls, hot & sour soup. Mandarin kung pao and fried Rice are successes, no question about it. The Vegi rolls are bright, aromatic, spicy, sweet. An impressive cold appetizer. The hot & sour authentic soup is essentially an ancient doctor's curative healing magic combined with taste. Mandarin kung pao a super familiar dish that delivers if you eat the peppers. And the fried rice, a basic godsend. My expectations are met.
(4)
Jay G.
I occasionally order take- out from this one, so I will address the McDowell location specifically. The parking lot is completely too small for the volume of lunch and dinner business they generate. It's in a bad part of Phoenix, so I don't recommend parking down one of the neighborhood streets. However, if you need a Phoenix cop, this place is swarming with them like flies. One day I counted (5) patrol units in the parking lot. The food is good however, and they are amenable to changing menu items to suit your palate. Though a bit overpriced for what is essentially "fast food" it's still tastes better than other Chinese take-out joints.
Pei Wei helped to prevent me from making a total ass of myself last night after a day of drinking off and on since noon. We found ourselves at SideBar and I was mixing drinks. Not the smartest thing to do after taking it light for eating lunch. But, I'm prone to making bad decisions so rarely surprise myself. I ordered the crab-stuffed wontons and edimame, took that back upstairs and both helped take the edge out of my hunger pangs. Enough to have another cocktail!
(4)
Dee T.
I have eaten at other Pei Wei locations and have been satisfied. However last nights purchase of four entrees was very disappointing. The Dan Dan steak entree was so overcooked I think they mixed up our order with the nursing home order, you couldn't eve bite the noodles, they just mushed in your mouth. The teriyaki chicken was also overcooked, totally dried out and without any sauce on the meat or veggies. To top off the insult, only 2 fortune cookies came with our order of 4 entrees, is the economy so bad we are sharing fortune cookies now?
(1)
Evan B.
Yes this is a chain created by Paul Flemming, however the food is decent, there are many vegetarian choices and this location adds a bit of local flavor to the chain's formula. On my last visit I opted the the yellow curry Thai noodles with tofu. First i would like to say is that the Tofu at Pei Wei is some of the best, it is firm and has a skin with a different texture than the bulk of it. The noodles were standard floppy wide rice noodles with with some veggies. the sauce did lack the punch you would get from a genuine Thai place however. Some other nice things about this chain include: *Order at the counter format: save on the tip *Self serve fountain drinks: Faster refills impress the date by getting them for her * Many condiments: Spice the meal to taste. *All you can eat fortune cookies: Don like your fortune? Try another! Parking here can be a bit of a challenge, but you can park on the next residential block south of here. There also is only one menu, so lunch prices can be a bit steep, crossing the $10 line.
(3)
Jane S.
This place can never get an online or over the phone order right! I don't know if its because they can't read or they don't care!
(1)
Inday C.
First time here and what a big disappointment! I like Pei Wei, been to several branches but this is one that I will not go back to. Our order was taken efficiently but when the food came, the beef dish we ordered was super salty! So we hailed a server and told her that the dish was too salty. All she could say was, do you want to have the dish changed? So we decided to have only one order replaced since we were halfway through eating the other order which came with the fried rice (that we liked) we would changed just one order of the same dish. We had ordered two. So she took one dish away and also removed the other dish. Maybe we had a communicated breakdown (she could barely speak English), but she replaced only one dish. So why did she take the other dish away too???? She had an angry face and was not happy at all! Guess my complaint is, we paid for a dish, it got taken away and there was no offer to refund us??? Yes, one order was replaced, which was still too salty but we decided to just let it go. That's all I have to say about that...
(2)
Phyllis K.
This is my very mostest favorite Pei Wei! Food is THE BEST. I don't know why, but this particular location makes the BEST Pei Wei food. Perhaps it's the incredible volume of business that they turn everyday~ they've truly got the magic touch. I am a regular there for lunch, at least once a week. It is almost always crazy busy. They are efficient and friendly. The food is always prepared well. You THINK a chopped chicken salad is the same here as at other Pei Wei's? NOT SO, my friend! THIS one knows just how long to poach it, debone and deskin it, and the proper dice. It is always a sublime salad experience. Whatever your favorite PeiWei dish is, it will be prepared better at this location. Parking here can be a bear, but there is a lot across the street for overflow traffic- southeast corner of 7th Av and McDowell. Go. But go after 1pm, when I'm gone.
(5)
Amy B.
I was kinda hungry, and on my way out for NYE, and decided to pick up some dinner to keep the stomach quiet. I decided on pei wei, and enjoyed my experience. I guess its supposed to be a low key version of PF changs, and the food and decor was just as nice as the PF changs resturants. Service was quick, location was clean, dinner was tasty. I got the sweet and sour chicken, and the servings were huge! I was expecting some kind of comprimise on serving size, for whatever reason, but clearly this was not the case. I enjoyed my experience here, and would probably return if I was in the area and looking for a reliable place to eat.
(4)
Phoenix N.
I eat at this location pretty frequently, but usually get take-out rather than dine in. This time we dined in. The parking there continues to be a nightmare. Not sure why they chose this location but if you don't go super early or super late, you will play hell trying to park. The food we ordered was tasty like always and the serving was good sized. HOWEVER, a manager or someone in a position of authority, really needs to walk the dining area and move the high school crowd outside who are only having a soda. We sat at a table close to them and the profanity they were spewing was outrageous and they were quite loud. I looked around many times, hoping a staff member would notice and re-direct them, but to no avail. I actually saw one couple who sat down by them move to the other side of the dining room. I'm sure it was because of the X-rated filth coming out of their mouths. It was like a low rent version of the cast of "GLEE" without manners or boundaries. It was enough that we ate quickly and left. I would have enjoyed staying longer and maybe even having another glass of wine, but not with that crowd ruining the experience. This place is nice and can really be a good dining experience, but someone really needs to monitor the high school kids. If I had brought my grandchildren along, I would have certainly sought out a manager and demanded they be made to leave. Not cool Pei Wei. Somebody needs to step it up in that department.
(3)
Michael J.
I generally avoid any type of chain but decided to make an exception and was glad I did. The Thai coconut curry was exceptionally good, I was really surprised. Think I will have to make an exception to my rule and come back here again.
(4)
Amy D.
"Hi, may I take your order?" blah blah blah I order Then, I feel like they should have said: "Would you like some food to go with that sodium?" Gross. Couldn't even eat it.
(2)
Amy Z.
I love the food here but its getting harder and harder to find a parking spot. They share a small parking lot with starbucks and a place upstairs called The Side Bar. I highly recommend you never go here after 5pm if you want dinner because you will NEVER find a parking spot. I would suggest going to one of their other locations in the valley.
(2)
Ceejay Y.
gotta try the carmel chicken just once, its bomb! I don't have any major complaints but the interior was really big and spacious, I was sort of surprised by this. The amount of food you get for the price is good , I don't think it was price unreasonably at all. Oh props for their drink machines they have over 107 different flavors of beverages. LOL 4 STARS
(4)
Sammy G.
I love this Pei-Wei location. I've been coming here since they opened about 4 years ago. Great renovation of an old building makes for a great atmosphere. Service is pretty good; especially the sisters who work the floor and have been there since Day 1...very sweet women and always take care of all your needs...leave 'em a buck or two, they work hard! Yeah, parking is a pain if you eat right at high noon or between 5 and 7pm. I often stop on my way home from the gym and pick up take away food; much easier. Everything I have tried on the menu is just great. Really love their Thai Chicken and their Thai Coconut Curry ... my fave main dishes. All 3 salads are great, and the Chopped Chicken Salad is actually way healthy when I'm watching my diet. They just came out with some small plates; my man tried the chicken lemongrass salad small plate last night and it was really awesome. They have a good test kitchen to come up with this stuff. And I know it makes me sound like an idiot, but the really cool Coke dispensing machine is the bomb. I usually just have the Lemonade Lite, but wow...6 flavors! haha. good stuff.
(5)
Christine J.
I know it's greasy. I also know that whenever I eat it, I get a feeling in my stomach like I swallowed a rock. Chinese food is supposed to be greasy, but there's often something a little off about Pei Wei. So why the 3 stars? Because they have the most incredible, firm, flavorful tofu ever. It's not a nice dark skin around it and it takes on the flavor of their oh-so-sodium-filled sauces without becoming a soggy mess. It really is tofu perfection. I also appreciate their awesome to-go options (order online or on your mobile browser) and the fact that they notate on their menu (with a leaf) which options are vegetarian. This place isn't the best Chinese ever, but I think it's decent if you're looking for something fast and very vegetarian-friendly.
(3)
Fred M.
I'm not too ashamed to admit that I actually *like* Pei Wei. Of course, this is also my favorite location due to the building they are in. It's a historic adaptave reuse that they really did a great job with. The menu is great because they really offer crowd pleasing food (uninteresting) at pretty fair prices. I spend less on take out here than if I go to China Chili, and the portions are about the same. They also give me the option of having brown rice which is great. Their mongolian beef I'm quite sure is filled with meth or crack or something. It's a very addicting flavor, and helps to make sure you get your years worth of sodium that day.
(4)
Carmelo W.
Parking sucks and birds are fearless if you eat outside. Other than that, its your average pei wei
(3)
Norm R.
Good value, good location, good prices. But whoa!! you guys in the kitchen ... take it easy on the sugar! I do have a sweet tooth, but I prefer to have my sugar in my desserts, not in my entrees! I've eaten here many times, mainly because my swim team comes here often after evening swim practice, and I've ordered different things each time. And almost every dish I ordered seemed to have sugar as one of the main ingredients. I guess they figure that's what the American palate expects in food, even Asian food.
(3)
Matthew V.
Pei Wei is one of my lunch destinations. I usually order Orange Peel Tofu and Vegetables or The Spicey Korean with Tofu. The portions are huge and I usually get brown rice as my choice of rice. Pei Wei is fast. The orders come out of that kitchen very quickly. Their ice tea is excellent. You can choose from Mandarin Orange or Chai. They have sliced oranges and lemons for tea. (A nice touch) Three stars people.
(3)
Ryan G.
A great place to grab a bite if you're out of time and happen to be downtown. Notable dishes which I recommend are the Spicy Korean and Tai Mango Chicken. I mean if you really wanted to try something spicy, healthy and delicious, you wouldn't be gnarling those Big Macs, would you? Plus, Zoe's is just going to take forever and I don't think you want to eat at a greek IKEA. - Time is but an illusion--lunch time, doubly so - Do tai chi or yoga before you find a parking spot - Grab as many fortune cookies as you can without feeling guilty
(4)
Jared S.
Pei Wei makes me sad. Sad because it is literally the ONLY "Chinese" food a downtown resident of the 5th largest city in the country can get for lunch on a lazy hungover Sunday afternoon. :-(
(1)
Jamie F.
Good food for lunch, but I would not eat dinner here. I like the almond chicken, the cashew chicken and broccoli beef. Avoid the white rice. It is not as good for you as the brown, and Pei Wei tends to leave it in the pot too long after it is cooked. Which means my white rice was mushy and crunky at the same time. Bleagh! Fast service from the time of order to the plate-slam on the table. Get in, get full, get out. This place is about 6 blocks north of the 7th Ave. exit from I-10, so it is possibly a rest stop for the through traveler going somewhere else.
(3)
Nathan S.
My brief review in haiku form: Cheap PF Chang's fix. Better than Panda Express You can get beer here. Thank you.
(4)
Erica D.
I love Pei Wei because I love any restaurant that has a #glutenfree menu. However, unlike it's BFF PF Changs, this restaurant has very limited choices for their GF menu. I stick to the sweet and sour chicken. I usually order with extra vegetables and light sauce (the sauce is a bit intense). I also get the edamame. Seriously, I miss the crab wontons more than I miss bread. They JUST started offering #glutenfree soy sauce (tamari) packets! HOORAY PEI WEI! BUT this restaurant gets a 3-star review (honestly a 3.5) because of the AWFUL PARKING LOT. Add 10 minutes to your destination to drive around the small parking lot if you want a close spot - OR - park in the SE corner behind the antique mall and walk over. Also, the patio is great to sit at, but there's a big pigeon problem. They'll attack your food if you let them! I always get to-go here and it's usually pretty decent. Today they a) gave me the wrong meal in my to-go bag and I had to call and ask them to come out and exchange my meal. However, when I got back and opened up the to-go container, they had forgotten the extra vegetables I requested. MAKE SURE you check what you're getting to-go, especially if you are #glutenfree!
(3)
Roger R.
Parking is sometimes rough, but I love this place.
(5)
K. M.
I've been to other locations several times but this was my first and last visit to this location. I always order the Thai Coconut Curry with chicken and rice noodles. I placed my order just like that. The person ringing me up seemed very distracted as she asked me three times if I wanted brown or white rice. I said rice noodles a total of FOUR times. I got my order and brought it back to work for lunch. When I opened it up, the first thing that I noticed was that it was made with regular noodles, not rice noodles. The worst part, though, was that EVERY SINGLE PIECE of chicken was chewy and fatty. Disgusting!! Never going to this location again.
(1)
Lee C.
For the price the food is great value, portions are good and the staff are very pleasant. Great thing is you can finish off your meal with a Starbucks from next door.
(4)
Amy O.
Love this place for lunch! there quick whether its take out or dine in! My fav. are the spring rolls & lettuce wraps!
(4)
Lucas S.
I concur with other reviews in that Pei Wei is overhyped... It's not bad, but it's definitely nothing to write home about. I had the Japanese ramen plate on my most recent visit and it satisfied my hunger, but I would definitely not be inclined to order it again if return. I suppose the appeal of this place to many could be that it is simply accessible in the sense that it's a comfortable establishment and not one that you might be hesitant about entering. So go ahead, try it out and then go find some good Asian food the next time you're in the mood.
(3)
Mike F.
Just grabbed a Togo order from this pei Wei, defiantly the best one I've been too. The building is an old brick spot, located below Side Bar and sharing a wall with Starbucks (heaven on earth perhaps?). Legit city style complete with exposed wood ceiling beams and brick walls. The sode machine is intense though, user be warned. 1 spout, 100+ choice, all touch screen! this aint for your grand pappy!!! Great, fast and friendly service. Line moves quick. Togo has their own door/cashier. Only problem is parking. I come here for Starbucks sometimes and every-time vow never to come back due to parking. Maybe I just need a longer fuse? On second thought, Nope. Improve parking please. Thanks. 4 stars only due to parking being such a pain.
(4)
Libby J.
What the heck?! My fiance and I eat here weekly, this is my neighborhood Pei-Wei and our experiences have been crazy bad lately! :( Last time my fiance ordered Kung Pao Chicken. It came out with no snow peas. My fiance asked about it and the server says, "yeah, we just ran out of them". No extra peanuts, no "can I substitute something else for you?"...nothing. End of discussion, apparently. Tonight we go in about 7:30pm and my fiance was daydreaming a bit after he received his receipt. The cashier informed him, "you can leave now". We receive our usual; his Kung Pao Chicken and my lettuce wraps. His Kung Pao noodles were so overcooked they were like chewing paste. My lettuce wraps tasted fine, but two hours later and I was incapacitated with stomach pains. Just finished expunging the remainder of the wraps, and I am starting to feel okay. And no, it could not have been anything else I ate. Or a virus. They don't come and go so quickly. Next time we are craving Pei-Wei, we will be making the drive to the East Phoenix location.
(1)
arik b.
Just because i feel like doing something different. :P i'm just going to paste some song lyrics that i feel sum up Pei Wei on McDowell... Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here I said the truth is here the truth is here I want more Give me more We want more God damn it I'm back to demand we get more We want more I want more and more and more I want more We need more I want more God damn it I'm back to demand we get more Give me more I want more and more and more [Verse 1:] I stand here naked as the day I was born Face to the dawn and my faith in the song Blood soaking the pages I painted em' on And none of ya'll will take my place when I'm gone I'm the pure raw uncut, who the fuck want what Here to show you sucker ass mutts what's the fucks what Brother Ali vow solemnly not to die while the music is still inside of me It's got to be allowed to breathe Got to let it out enough at least to let the monster flee I want more than what your offering me Songs that make me feel like I'm already free I'm a rebel in my own right Ya'll don't want to write or think or speak a rhyme standing next to me When the game need it I'm exactly what it need Put the soul in the speech, let it go, let it be [Chorus: x2] I want more We need more I want, god damn it I'm back to demand we get more Give me more I want more and more and more I said the truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is [Verse 2:] Not nearly a single solitary soul Still put the kind of passion to the mic that I hold One day it'll have to be pried from my cold dead hand Until then the big man is gold Got one lone reason to go on breathing Climb into the zone of the evening, keep reaching Just to pull more out the core of the deamon The people need to see them pure human being Blood, sweat, love, hate, life, death, joy, pain Little child running wild striped to the raw veins Rugged junkyard dog off the chain, barefoot balls out marching in the rain Sacred war dance suspended in the moment We throw the fuck down like our lives depended on it Jaws of the streets with our heart on our sleeve Throwing shots at the law which is all I believe [Chorus x2] [Verse 3:] Our songs are supposed to be the voice of our soul Not bought and sold, not all controlled Bring a little fire when the world get cold Let me shed a few tears and to me you went gold People need more freedom Children need to hear more truth when ya'll teach em' Damn I want to hear a plan from the dude preaching Got new seeds with true needs and who's leading I truly believe every word I've ever uttered on a drum break Right or wrong, life go on but it wasn't nothing fake I demand you start listening to the crowd If not - we gon burn this bitch to the ground [Chorus x2] I said the truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is the atmosphere is pretty hot here too..exposed brick always makes me Yelp!
(5)
Curt L.
Two stars for a clean place and friendly people. The food was just not very good. The hot and sour soup was bland and thin. The fried dumplings were deep fried, not pan fried; the filling was good but the wrapper was more like an empenada, not a dumpling. The spicy Korean beef was drenched in soy sauce. No other flavor to it. It was so salty I could not eat it. They offered a replacement dish without complaint -- the chicken pad thai was just OK. I wouldn't go back.
(2)
Mike S.
Pretty good. Your average Pei Wei. Parking is a huge pain in the ass here.
(3)
Jason I.
It is what it is. I like this Pei Wei (WARNING) just do not come here between 1115am-1230pm unless you want to wait for the business crowd. Its a favorite location due to being so close to starbucks and right off of 7th ave. Parking is terrible during these hours also. If you do want to come here for lunch during your work day I would suggest try getting here at 11am at least you wont have to wait long. I usually call in and go pick it up if I cant make the 11am window. The food is good. As good as pei wei gets. Its always fresh and the taste and texture is what I would expect. My favorite is probably the curry chicken. I ask for extra spicy. The pot stickers are awesome too they are deep fried though. They have this chilli sauce by the soda fountain that is killer. I love it. Overall I would say not a family friendly place during lunch hours but anytime after the lunch rush is good. Get your Pei Wei on.
(4)
Aba J.
Way too crowded for lunch but they seem to hire very attentive staff so I give this place at least 3 stars. Nice building, nice food but just too crowded, I don't know how it got so famous but apparently it did. Another restaurant is needed on this corner to make some more competition.
(3)
Scott R.
This use to be one of my favorite places for lunch but it has gone considerably down hill since the chain was bought out by a non local investment firm. Service is lackluster at best and thy do not provide a level of service the business use to maintain. Staff act as if they are doing you a favor by being served and are not the least bit friendly. On several occasions, I have been cut off by a staff member who was in a hurry to get somewhere. If you order a combo plate, the bring your entree out with the soup so your entree will be cold by the time you finish the app. Overall, the food quality is about the same. They need to improve their service if they don't wish to lose diners.
(2)
Tiphanie B.
i tried the thai river noodles. they will not replace the love i have for a dan dan noodle bowl. but the thai noodles, they were good. i like this place because it has really opened hours compared to everything else around here. and the food in inconsistent. oh also, the new soda machines are very entertaining. just watch.... this is usually a last resort option (everything else in the area is closed). but it is a good one nonetheless.
(5)
Chris M.
Chicken fried rice Yum. Friendly employees. Could have been cleaner.
(3)
Melissa H.
LEMON PEPPER IS BACK! I don't know when it got re-introduced on the menu, but this seriously made my day. Just for that, I am bumping this Pei Wei up to 4 stars. Quick service even when the line is out the door; friendly service; and delicious lemon pepper chicken. Pei Wei can now officially be added back to our lunch rotation.
(4)
Michael J.
Sunday afternoons at one require more than one cashier. Lined up customers for dine in, and a growing line for pick up and take out. A tad dysfunctional. Wound up @ Tokyo express...
(2)
Thomas S.
Perhaps you know that guy who likes to talk in "quotes". Well, he would definitely be at home at Pei Wei, and especially at this location. Set in Phoenix's "historic district" Pei Wei is supposed to represent a sign of "urban renewal" for the city's core. It's wedged on a very small parcel of land at the southwest corner of McDowell and 7th Avenue. As alluded to it's "parking lot" causes one to draw lots...because there's no guarantee of finding a space if you fancy eating a meal other than breakfast or dinner here. Nevertheless, the restaurant's architecture embodies a bit more "character" than one might be used to Arizona. Free-standing, it favors a "sophisticated" and "historic" look with brick-lined interiors. Inevitably, there will be a prodigious line awaiting you (and your money). This is actually a benefit to you trying to read the "menu' posted on boards along the entry-way. The selections are all "Asian fusion" which defies description probably as much as the term "electability". Don't be fooled, there is little or no guarantee that any person of Asian descent got within miles of providing any contribution to your meal. Nevertheless, the food has been carefully calibrated to appeal to the "fast casual" palette. And adhering to the mantra of "fast casual", you'll find all the service quality of Souplantation. You order your food, you take your number, they give you a table, they drop off your food and they take away your tray. This "forward-looking" and "innovative" human resource strategy doesn't seem to solve the wait for your food, but it probably does keep costs down. The spectre of "gentrification" tends to raise prices...but in this regard Pei Wei still appeals to the rapidly disappearing "middle class". It's not possible to match the "value" of say In-N-Out here, but you can eat for under $10 easily. And even though the company has lost the role of culinary "vanguard" to say, Pinkberry, it's still one of the better options for lunch in the shadow of downtown.
(3)
Michele M.
Nice setup, hard to find a parking spot, and the food, too american to be consider real Asian food especially the Pad Thai, terrible! Need I say more. Other restaurants in the area that are so much better in so many ways.
(2)
Bob B.
I've been to more than a few Pei Wei's to know a bad one when I see it. At least take-out-wise. Maybe they figure that once you're home you can't make a fuss but then there's YELP! (Hi fans) Let's talk portions. Minimal. Miniscule. Micro. Don't expect the same portion you would get sitting down to dine. And don't expect to pay less for it. They cheat you, plain and simple. Let's talk RIce. The worst white rice I've every had in a take-out. Mushy or rock hard lumps. Need I say more? Let's talk Sauce. At this store they consider sauce a garnish. You get more moisture from the soy sauce packet. If they gave you 1/4 the rice, it would be the right amount for the entree sauce they serve up. As it is, what you get will just about color half the rice portion. Finally, accuracy. It is near impossible to get a perfect order from these people. I've tried ordering pork three times and got chicken twice and beef once. The last time I opened it in-store and said "I'd like pork in my Mongolian Pork please." It was chicken. It was a long wait for cold food. This has to be the worst-run Pei Wei in the franchise. Don't pay the premium price - you won't get your money's worth.
(1)
Jon K.
Asian food for white people. Not terrible but very, very bland.
(3)
Maggie H.
I pretty much don't care for any location of Pei Wei, but I'm reviewing this one as my office occassionally orders from this location. I don't totally loathe Pei Wei (hence the two stars), but if I had a choice to eat there I wouldn't. Anytime I have gotten chicken lettuce wraps from here they are always very greasy. Their wonton soup is pretty much broth with a couple of wontons. The blazing noodles are ok, but are a bit too spicy for me. The worst thing about this location is their teeny tiny parking lot. You can rarely ever find a parking space here. You can park around the corner in the neighborhood or across the street at the antique shop. If you plan to eat here on your lunch break from work good luck to you. You're better off getting take out. This place is so packed during the week for lunch you could probably spend your entire lunch hour and more waiting.
(2)
Jonathan K.
After spending a year in Asia, I understand that Pei-Wei is not authentic. It boasts extremely americanized asian food. This is an awesome place if your getting take out or dining alone. I would avoid large groups. Pei-Wei is what I call a Hybrid Restaurant. You order as you walk in, and receive your drink from the cashier. You fill your beverage and have a seat. The waitress brings you your food. You will not get a paper cup. You will eat off of real plates with real utensils. If you need a refill, just ask! Staff is more than happy to help. It is very low maintenance and quick. The management team is superior, the are always available.
(4)
Scott S.
Probably the best all-around every-day restaurant in Phoenix. It offers all 4 points: good food, great price, healthy choices, and fast service. And for those of us who live in downtown Phoenix...We finally have a place that stays open more than 20 hours a week! Thank you God, for giving us Pei Wei! And to all those other establishments in the downtown area that are only open Monday - Friday 11am-3pm, let Pei Wei be an example to you. There are people living down here, and we will come out and eat at restaurants that offer good food at good prices and stay open!!!
(5)
Stephanie P.
If you have an oral fixation that manifests itself in the form of a diet coke addiction, it is worth going to this location for the beverage dispensers alone. I was very impressed by what they got goin on.
(4)
Gregory H.
Hooray! A new place to eat great food! How can you not want that? I had the god fortune to get t watch this diner built from the get go. I have gotten to know the managers and the staff, all of which rock. These guys are doing an amazing job. I had never eaten at a Pei Wei prior to this one opening and have to say I'm now hooked!! I have tried almost everything on the menu and have yet to find something that I didn[t like. The food is always hot and fresh and ready when they tell me it will be. Parking is a bit of a problem, but with Starbucks Coffee literally right next door, it's worth the trouble. This place definately puts yummy in your tummy!!
(5)
seth g.
This place is way beyond average..Chop n Wok or Flo's is a must go. If you have to have Pei Wei eat there and try something with scallops for a change
(2)
Jim M.
This location is on my list! Let me give you a rundown of what happened last week. Keeping in mind I have been to this location many times and have had a great experience. We were hungry, didn't know what to get so we did the old standby and went to Pei Wei. We went in, place our order: -Pei Wei Spicy Chicken Salad -Thai Dynamite Chicken with brown rice -Vietnamese Chicken Salad Rolls. We were handed a buzzer (#8) because we were taking it to-go and were told the order will be about 10 min.... 15 min passed and I thought wow this is taking awhile, but I didn't want to be pushy so we waited, and waited, and waited and at 20 min, I looked at a table of people that placed their order after us. They were enjoying their meal... WHAT THE....?!?!?! So I walked over and said, "excuse me we haven't been buzzed and the people that placed their order after us seem to be enjoying their meal." She looked over at a bag just sitting on the counter (for God knows how long) and laughed and said in a "giggly voice" can I get you chop sticks or forks. I thought to myself, it's not EVEN worth getting mad, just leave... So I said both please, and left. Meanwhile we get to our destination, open our bag to: - Coconut Curry Chicken - a container with a plain salad - a container of chicken that goes in a lettuce wrap - Vietnamese Chicken Salad Rolls(that looked like they were rolled by a waffle cone maker. -and a sack of condiments. WHAT THE.....?!?!?!?! So I am LIVID at this point, but my partner makes the call, because I would probably reach through the phone at this point.... Everything was resolved over the phone. Unfortunately, for us our dinner experience did not meet our expectations on any level... I have been here when this manager was working before. I remember him being extremely helpful, very nice, and really knows his customer service. Unfortunately, I think it was a result of one person that completely ruined my experience. It will be some time before I go to this Pei Wei again.
(1)
Sophie M.
I think it's funny how a lot of people think this place is "healthy". If only they knew... This place is alright. Once you've had a fair share of their menu it all starts to the taste the same. However, it is inexpensive, consistent, and a great place to go if it's a weekday night and you're just looking for a quick, relaxing bite. Also, this location's atmosphere blows all others out of the water. The floors and ceilings are amazing. Come here for dinner, though. Lunch during the week is outrageous, and good luck finding a parking spot in the ridiculously small parking lot Pei Wei and Starbucks share.
(3)
Adam M.
I feel bad for giving this chain location a good review, especially after displacing Emerald Lounge and Wings n Things. That said.... it's down the block from my house, it's tasty and fresh, better than a couple local neighborhood non-chain places, and it's relatively healthy and fast. A good mix.
(4)
Kaisar Nova K.
I swung by here a little while back on super bowl sunday. It was the only Thai place open after 9pm. Nice. They have a nice east asian fusion menu with plenty of spice and brown rice to boot. Prices are spot on. Plenty of room for parking, dining-in and chatting it up. The Pei Wei has my vote.
(4)
van r.
The food is Okay. Not great, not terrible. But I think for what they are charging it should be better than okay. Also the tofu tastes wierd. I think it could use more flavoring. The orange chicken is very spicey, almost too spicey to not even enjoy it. The sweet&sour is good.
(2)
Chris R.
In a hella convenient location nestled next door to a Starbucks, and facing McDowell Rd., you really can't go terribly wrong with this Pei Wei. Of course you have many other opportunities to eat better food in downtown Phoenix, but let's not take away the convenience, location, an early opening time and the fact that a heavy rotation of cops and troopers keep the zombies of 7th Ave at bay. We've all been to Pei-Wei so I won't describe the food, other than to comment that a every dish seems to be getting increasingly saltier with every visit. My spicy korean bowl with tofu and vegetables seemed to be positively drenched with salty goo... perhaps the kindly staff took pity on my tofu-ness and decided to compensate with every tool in their flavor arsenal. Or perhaps I just was feeling salt sensitive. Their salads are consistently flavorful and fresh, though I can't say I've ever encountered anything like them on my travels in Asia. Pei Wei is a successful Arizona invention from the team that started PF Changs so we should be proud of what they get right, and keep them honest on what they get wrong.
(3)
John T.
Was ok. Plenty of flavor but I think I got the wrong dish. My coworkers looked great but mine was a bit disapointing. I would advise against the spicy Korean. Will be back out of curiosity.
(3)
ben h.
I don't even care about authenticity issues. I'd eat a sushi filled with a taco if it was delicious. the food here is just criminally bland.
(1)
Justin H.
This is like a fast food asian type of spot. Its pretty good for what it is. Stopped by here one day because it was close to a golf course that i wanted to play at. Think i had the lemon pepper chicken, it was good.
(3)
Gene G.
My wife and I have gave them two chances. I wish we hadn't. Both times the food tasted...off. I won't hasten to guess the reason of the "offness", but I had to stop eating the food both times for fear of becoming ill.
(2)
Paul B.
This is a nice addition to the neighborhood. They were able to take an existing building and preserve it, featuring the original brickwork and beams. The building is shared with a Starbucks. Pei Wei is no great shakes but there are not a lot of options in an area where everything opens for lunch and then closes at 3. The potstickers are quite good, I like the Pei Wei Spicy Beef. My wife tends to order the lettuce wraps, but has been disappointed with the quality of the lettuce at least once. All of our visits here have been for carryout. They handle phone orders very efficiently. Parking is problematic here. There are a couple of spots reserved for carryout but they are not respected. There have been a couple of times when it looked like I might have to park across 7th Ave in the antique store, but I have been lucky so far.
(3)
Michael L.
The building is very much an improvement for the neighborhood. It looks good but one might have a hard time finding parking during high hours. It did not take long to get our order taken by a gently speaking man. We each ordered a different dish and we all enjoyed that which we ate. I never mind if food fits or not a particular set thought, such as being Asian. If it is good is all that matters to me, it was all very fresh and well presented. So once again I had a very pleasant lunch with friends.
(4)
Thomas S.
With all the mediocore to scathing reviews, I've always said No Way to Pei Wei. I ordered for pick up and had a very friendly, helpful, if not Jeff Spicoli sounding, employee help me with my first ever Pei Wei experience. At 9pm on a Thursday night there was plenty of parking and I found the little Pei Wei place to be 1/4 full and actually a nice looking room. The surly person (manager type) who rung up my order, must have had to much MSG as he was irritable and I must say a bit puffy. But most importantly, after devouring our take out, Rickie and I voted four thumbs up (that's two thumbs for each of us, times two, carry the one...well you get the idea) for three of the four items. So spring rolls, potstickers and Korean beef....you'll soon be hanging with us again soon. Pad Thai? Yea. You're not invited. Unless you can sauce it up a bit and find it in your heart to bring along more tofu and veggies. But I'm not counting on it. Pei Wei? Yes way for this gay! OK!?
(3)
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Address :701 W McDowell Rd,Ste 101
Phoenix, AZ, 85003
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : Beer & Wine Only Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : No Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Drive-Thru : No Caters : Yes
The popularity of Chinese food in America can be adjudicated by the appearance of China Town in many major cities in the United State of America. The popular trend of ordering or opting for Chinese take away food isn't unknown in America. Chinese take away food comes to rescue when you're too tired from work or too exhausted to cook. No one can resist the temptation of eating spicy noodles, shrimp, chicken, beef or pork cooked in the sweet and spicy sauce. The cooking method of authentic Chinese food is a lot different compared to what is served in America.
Generally, Chinese use dark meat small bones and organs to cook dishes but this changes when you are eating American-Chinese fusion food prepared using white boneless meat cooked with broccoli, carrots and onions. Back in China, the food is less spicy and oily as they favor steaming and braising method for cooking the most popular dishes. So, if you have a taste for authentic Chinese food, then try finding a real Chinese restaurant in the city. You can also try the most popular fusion Chinese food like Pecking Duck, Chicken Feet, Hot Pot, Shrimp Dumpling Soup, Mapo Tofu, Wontons, Chop Suey, Egg Rolls and not to forget Fortune Cookies.
There are not many restaurants in America serving authentic Chinese food. A little research on Restaurant Listings directory can help you locate the best Chinese restaurants in the city. Chinese cuisine is continuously evolving, and you can find a variety of dishes categorized as the food for lactose intolerant, gluten intolerant, vegan, vegetarian, and diabetic friendly. So, if you have a group of friends with different taste patterns, save the hassle and visit the nearest Chinese restaurant in your city.
Ryan E.
They do not have the Spicy Korean at this location. I came in wanting to try something new. I issued get Pad Thai or Lo Mein, which I've always loved, but unfortunately they apparently don't and haven't (I was informed) has the Spicy Korean on the menu for a long time. The cash register, though I had to ask her and she didn't immediately recommend something comparable to the menu item they didn't not have, recommended the Kung Pao or the Pei Wei Spicy. I got the Kung Pao and an order of Crab Wontons. We'll see how this goes.
(4)T A.
I can't say there is much on the menu here that isn't overpriced and cheap tasting "food". Now they are offering "sushi" which is laughable...extremely small and terrible. I wish this place would close down so a legit restaurant could take it's place.
(1)Sal R.
Loved the food! I had the Pad Thai mmmmmm really good! I would definitely recommend this place to all my friends
(5)C K.
I had the lettuce wraps on Wednesday and got food poisoning!! Need I say more!!
(1)Youri L.
Never been a huge fan of the chain despite any friends who love it. Decided to order some take out at 7pm knowing there is a possibly long line and sure enough I arrive to find one. I go the register, it's now 7:20 give my name and I'm told there is no record of my order. Seriously? I'm now in line waiting another 15-20 minutes for their incompetence. Decent food perhaps it good service definitely not.
(2)George H.
The entire chain has gone down. When they first introduced this concept- the food has flavor, ingredients were fresh & flavorful, and the staff was friendly. Nowadays, the Dan Dan noodle bowl taste like ramen noodles with a flavorless sauce and fried chicken. Even the paper napkins have been downgraded to cheap quality. Avoid this restaurant & chain at all costs!
(1)Cindy S.
Do you enjoy cutting the roof of your mouth on burnt spring rolls? Slicing into my delicate palate is typically a cherished experience that lasts for days as I run my tongue over the loose flaps of skin left behind by the sharp edges of over-toasted sandwich bread; today my adoration for mouth injuries seems to be on a hiatus. My fickle love affair with Pei Wei ended the moment I discovered they discontinued the green coconut curry dish, however, I do occasionally break down for some tofu Pad Thai and the occasional crab won ton. The location on 7th Ave and McDowell is conveniently located and has become a place where I make emergency dining decisions. A mere month ago a friend of mine and I dined in for a business meeting and the service was so horrible and inconsistent with the menu description that the manager, Anthony, gave us a $10 gift card credit to use the next time we came in in addition to a comp of the dish in question. I appreciate that the management was willing to save a couple of potential repeat customers, kudos for that. Anthony, if you are still managing this location; please stop doing so many lines of cocaine during your break. Perhaps drinking on the job and soliciting young, impressionable cashiers is not the best use of your time. Whatever it is that you are doing Mr. or Ms. manager of Pei Wei Downtown Phoenix, please stop it at once and focus on the piss poor quality of food that you are cranking out on the regular. My Pad Thai was soggy, overcooked and flavorless. Unless they have recently updated their recipes, I would wager to say that this was sent back by an in-house patron and re-heated for my enjoyment. The potstickers were blackened around the edges and cooked to the point where the insides had shriveled to the size of a nickel. No matter how hungry I get, I will never in all of my days spend another dime in this establishment. Kthxbai xo
(1)Amy S.
These guys are so amazing! I call and order for a group of 33 people and ask that the food be ready in a hour. Pei wei doesn't flinch a bit! "Absolutely!" They say..... Fantastic service! Delicious food! Amazing customer service! Thank you!
(5)Angela P.
Worst service ever. In a group of 6 the first person to order received her food long after the rest of us. And the order was wrong.
(1)Jose R.
Love pei wei but this particular locations lacks in service. They always seem Short staffed, food is slow to Come out and portions are smaller than other locations. Management really needs to step it up.
(2)Alecia R.
Don't get me wrong, I LOVE Pei Wei, but this particular location, not so much. My friend and I ordered the chicken pad Thai, and chicken lettuce wraps. The chicken lettuce wraps were good, but the pad Thai was way too spicy for my liking. I've had the chicken pad Thai dozens of time from Pei Wei, and it has never been that spicy. When I told the ladies up front about it, they looked so annoyed and acted like I was wrong and dumb for even saying that. They came over and told us that the sauce is pre-made and always tastes that way so there was nothing they could do about it, when I know for a fact it doesn't ever taste like that. They offered to get us a side of rice or something but it didn't seem like they really meant it so we declined. If I go to Pei Wei again, I'll definitely go to a different one. Also, the soda machines were out of every flavor I wanted, they should work on changing things when they run out.
(2)Lynnie N.
Definitely not authentic but if you're looking for authenticity, any chain restaurant isn't the way to go. Here's what I recommend getting: -Dynamite Chicken -Lettuce Wraps -Pad Thai (get tofu!) Don't get: -their sushi -their Kung pao chicken The flavors at Pei Wei are always good!
(4)Sheena M.
After waiting on the phone as "caller number one" for almost 10 mins, I decided to drive in while still on hold...After getting parked and in line the casket FINALLY picked up my call. I ordered my food only to get home and it was WRONG. Avoid this location at all cost, I can't believe they screwed up my meal after all that.
(1)Andrew K.
Tried something new today... first a Roast Pork Egg roll and then Spicy Korean Chicken. Now perhaps I am a bit of a Chinese (Asian) food snob being from NY NY however one thing you can take to the bank is this... DO NOT GET THE ROAST PORK EGG ROLL. Hands down the weakest by far I have ever had! So surprising as I have never known Pei Wei to have anything terrible and this my friends was terrible. OK, now the Spicy Korean Chicken. Really just OK. While beautiful looking and presented, flavor wise... just mediocre. Left feeling that something was missing... like perhaps a tinge more sweetness. While tonight's meal will by no means preclude me from coming back, I certainly learned tonight what Not to order.
(2)Stephanie B.
I will never come back to this Pei Wei. I hope the lackluster food was just at the particular location because I would dislike to ex out an entire franchise. I've only been to Pei Wei once and that was years ago. The order process is already kinda weird so when I was ready to order, the girl asked me if I was dining in or ordering to go. I said to go and she says "well this is the dine in line but it's ok"...did she really need to tell me? There was no one else in the line so I wasn't holding anyone up AND she worked both lines so what the hell does it matter? The food from a scale to 1 to 10 was a 0. I've never ate food with no taste. The chicken was dry, the noodles had absolutely no seasoning. There was only so much soy sauce I could put, I mean I had to salvage the one pack that they gave me. Cheapness. If I wanted noodles with no taste, I could have boiled my own for free. Lesson learned. You guys will never get my business again!
(1)Victor Z.
I recommend the Wonton Soup and Vietnamese Rolls, they never seem to disappoint. The peanut sauce and sweet chili that comes with rolls is my favorite part. Soup is a bit salty but edible. Bon Appétit y'all!
(2)David S.
Salty lattice wrap and kungpao beef. average food that tastes like a $6 buffet food quality.
(2)Justin B.
This has nothing to do with the food , the only reason that this review is so-so is because of the parking lot . How the Hell can you combine a 20 car parking lot with a starbucks,a bar upstairs , and a very popular main stream resteraunt ??? Its stupid parking in this parking lot at 10-1 pm ...
(3)Natalie L.
Thai chicken lettuce wraps are my favorite! I also always get their Thai dynamite sauce with beef or chicken with some white rice! YUM! I know the place is packed during lunch and service is a little slow so I usually go in the afternoon! the guy who delivers my food is so nice!
(5)Juan E.
I just went here tonight and was disappointed that this particular location has the Spicy Korean dish off of their menu. I've been to other Pei Wei locations before and absolutely love the Steamed Spicy Korean Steak on brown rice. Because of that, I went for with something new. Tonight, I had Steamed Honey Seared Steak on brown rice. I chose this dish, because I like garlic sauce, scallions, and red bell peppers that it comes with. I never had rice sticks or had honey mixed with the sauce before. So I was curious how this dish would taste. It was pretty good. The service was spot on and quick. I would go here again, but next time would ask if they have the Spicy Korean dish still available. Next time, I would change it up by getting Steamed Spicy Korean Chicken on brown rice. I'll update with what the experience was.
(4)Gabriel L.
I hadn't been here in a very long time so when my spouse suggested it I was pretty amped because the pei Wei I remember was always tasteful and satisfying. I walked in and I saw they served sushi so I thought I'd try it. God no. It tasted worse than the frys brand with that imitation crab. I sent it back and asked for a side of chicken, the manager looked annoyed but took it back anyway. A few minutes after receiving my chicken, I dropped a drink accidentally. My fault, yes, but when I went to ask the server for a towel, he actually gave me one and made me clean the table up myself. I then went to ask for a second one because the floor was still wet, which is when another employee stepped in and starting cleaning it. I then went to ask for boxes for our food because that visit was pretty horrible. Instead of going to get my boxes, the kid that made me clean up the drink went to tell the "manager" I spilled a drink and she threw her hands up in the air as if the world had ended. I'm sure this isn't the first or last time someone spills a drink lady. Learn some customer service skills. So I sat there, and waited and waited and waited for my boxes. I stopped him and asked him where my boxes were, "oh sorry I forgot." Maybe you wouldn't have forgotten if you weren't busy gossiping. So in conclusion, the sushi is disgusting, like I literally had to spit it out after trying to force myself to eat it and the service was horrible. The manager should rethink customer service at a restaurant with her attitude.
(2)E Paul L.
Stop in at Pei Wei for lunch or dinner. ALWAYS TASTY, CLEAN and REPUTABLE. I prefer their McDowell and 7th Ave location. Cashew Chicken is SUPERB.
(4)Mark G.
Fast service and friendly staff. The staff is always smiling and food always arrives fast!
(5)Alejandra B.
Omg this place is awesome to just get out of the house and have some Asian food (with the kids too!) In Arizona is almost always hot, but I looove coming here at night and sitting outside. The only thing that's bad is the parking, but there's not much they can do about it. The good thing is that people are always coming and going so just give it a min and something will pop up. But 80% of the time there's plenty of parking space in the evening. Definitely recommend this location to anyone in Phoenix!
(5)Patty O.
Expensive chain restaurant. If you're in the mood for stir fry, there are worse options. They have a neat spin on some things. I've been a few times and they've had good service and been clean every time. I'll be back.
(4)Katherine C.
I haven't been to this location before, but I didn't think twice before placing my Pick-Up order because of all the great experiences and food I've had at other locations. Yikes -- it did NOT turn out as I expected!! I ordered two Vietnamese chicken rolls and 1/2 order of sushi rolls (it had mango in it, but I can't remember the name for some reason). This location doesn't take online orders, and the wait time on the phone was about 15 minutes. My order was ready for pick-up on time (but warning, parking is hard around the lunch hour). I grabbed my bag of food, headed back to the office, and was surprised when I opened the box of Vietnamese rolls. One of the rolls was split down the middle and falling apart. Bummer. I used a fork to eat it, and opaque liquid dripped off the pieces that I forked up. Gross. I then noticed that, instead of peanut sauce, they gave me sesame ginger vinaigrette that is meant for a salad (I think). What!? The second roll was falling apart from excessive liquid, too. But, what was worse, was the FISHY taste when I bit into it. THIS IS SUPPOSED TO BE CHICKEN! I dug through the roll to find that it was made with what appeared to be a white fish. It flaked like fish, looked like fish, and tasted like fish. Dear G-d, I hope it was fish. Now I'm totally grossed out and will NOT eat from this location again. I gave this review two stars instead of one because I think every place deserves a second chance (sometimes crap happens).... I just can't get this fishy taste out of my mouth, and I'm too freaked out to eat there again.
(2)Brad H.
I don't know what's going on with the management of this location, but it seems to be going downhill quickly. We stopped in last night for what should have been a quick bite on our way to the theater. However, what would have been a quick bite turned into a long time waiting for our food. And it wasn't just us, everyone around us was commenting on how long it was taking for food to come out of the kitchen. Now, since it's open, I could that there were plenty of people back there so I'm not sure why it took so long, but it certainly did. Now, if you're going to compete in the fast, casual, restaurant market, you need to nail the fast part. When this Pei Wei was new, maybe they could get away with it, seeing as the only nearby competition was the (now gone) My Florist Cafe, but now that there is a Habit Burger, Chipotle, Pot Belly Sandwiches, and On a Roll within walking distance the management of Pei Wei need to get their act together. Also, the last time we were at this location, they completely screwed up our order and brought us the wrong dishes. Get it together Pei Wei!
(2)Katelyn S.
Just ordered the small Thai Dynamite with chicken and my plate came with 5 lumps of meat. After spending $7 I figured I would at least get a decent meal. A small shouldn't automatically mean meager.
(1)Gina H.
We came in 2 minutes before closing and they helped us with a smile! They didn't even try and kick us out after 40 minutes. Good was great, fast and fresh. Would come here again because they where so nice to still serve us.
(5)+TheGeneralofHope +.
My dining experience today was fabulous! The Asian-fusion menu was fun and colorful to choose from. The parking was tight but the meal was worth it. Service was great and efficient. The food is worthy and cost about as much as Applebee's. I will return - Solid!
(5)Jennifer S.
When you walk in, they take your order right away and they give you a number. Then you get to choose where you want to sit. They have booths and tables and a really neat drink machine where you can mix your drinks easily using a high-technology type of drink dispenser. As an Asian, this place is not your typical Asian food. It's very Americanized Asian food and is a favorite of my friends who are not Asian. I don't enjoy the noodle dishes, but I did enjoy the new "Korean Steak Lettuce Wrap". It was very salty, but full of flavor. If you like very flavorful food and you want to eat a little healthier... well kind of try, try out this dish. Overall, not my favorite place, but it's good. BTW, be careful when parking. This place can be a challenge when trying to find a parking spot as it gets superful due to the complex sharing it with starbucks. I would go during off hours and if you go during popular hours, look twice when backing out.
(3)Michael K.
This place is back to being a normal Pei Wei for those who are concerned. With that said, I'm not really sure what niche Pei Wei occupies. If I want Asian fast food, I'd rather get Panda Express which is simultaneously cheaper, tastier, and healthier. If I'm willing to spend more is rather just go to a normal Asian restaurant. I was never a fan of Pei Wei in Tucson but decided to give this location a shot since I had a coupon for a free meal. I got a cup of the Thai wonton soup, which was fairly tasty but for 1.99 it looked like enough to fill maybe a tea cup. For an entree I tried the spicy Korean with shrimp and white rice. The whole meal was basically a flavorless morass. Two stars for good customer service and fortune cookies but would not go back on my own.
(2)Jorge M.
What happened to Pei Wei they used to bring the food to your table at the same time and this is the second time that the food trickles down. My partner is half way done and I'm not served yet. Their customer service is down big time :(
(2)Aimee H.
I am conflicted between two and four stars, so logically I went with three. I do love me some Pei Wei, for several reasons. They are usually very conveniently located, you can order online, everything is yummy, they are very consistent (what you had tasted last week will be the same the next), and their quality is very good. They even have some options for reducing the calories on your favorite entrees. That being said I am clearly a fan, however this location has let me down a few times. Nothing major, you just might want to double check your bag before leaving with your take out. I requested some soy sauce and sweet and sour sauce to go with my food, he assured me they were in the bag, I took his word for it, went on my way and was very disappointed when I got home, mouth watering from the smell that enveloped my car, and saw NO sauce, of either flavor. I was out out of soy sauce at home, so my rice was a little sad. I am not a huge fan of their sweet and sour sauce anyhow, so that wasn't a huge let down. My faves are the lettuce wraps (DUH!), crab wontons (very crabby, fake krab but whatev), honey seared chicken (sweet), Mongolian beef (green onions are great), and Jon likes the sweet and sour chicken (good veggies).
(3)Marcella C.
Last night we ate at this pei Wei. We got there kinda late and when we went to order they were out of the sushi rolls that we wanted. We went ahead and ordered what they had and a meal. The manager brought part of our food out and apologized again for being out of what we had ordered as well. Asked us what else we would like on the house. The food was excellent as always and the management was more then accommodating. We will defiantly be going back
(4)Joseph C.
Have tried this place 3 times now. The food is drowned in sauce, chicken is tough and vegetables are either undercooked or way overcooked (broccoli). Don't waste your money. Certainly nothing like PF Changs in taste. Go to Blue Fin for fast great Asian food nearby.
(1)Ryan L.
Good food, but the parking situation is horrible. Try to avoid lunch time during the work week, but if you need your fix during the rush it's best to call ahead or place your order online.
(3)Joe X.
Ok it is getting better but needs some work. They run out of stuff way too often. The food is consistent quality though.
(4)Alejandro L.
Terrible service. They lost my order and took 30 minutes to remake it. Do not waste your time coming to this poorly run establishment.
(1)Amanda S.
We eat at Pei Wei quite frequently and this location was, by far, the worst. We went fairly late on a Saturday night so, while they were busy, they weren't THAT busy. We waited over 15 minutes for our food - which they brought out separately. My husband's arrived. Then mine. Then my niece's. These were not spaced out by 1 minute - we're talking 3-5 minutes. That is a long time for food to sit and get cold if you are being polite and waiting for others to eat. I ordered the diner select honey seared chicken like I *always* do. When it arrived, I counted my chicken pieces. That's right - there were so few I counted them. I had exactly 5 little chicken morsels (about the size of a piece of popcorn chicken) for my $6.50 + drink dinner. I think I could have done better at Panda, thanks, and your quality isn't THAT much better that I would turn my nose up at Panda to eat your 5 chicken bites. DH was okay with his steak - although in my opinion there wasn't enough of that either. Overall we'll keep going to Pei Wei, but the 7th Avenue location is off our list.
(1)Michael F.
I give Pei Wei thumbs up because the dishes are good for a chain. Because of my social circle, I've eaten here a lot in the past year. I feel that the dishes here are healthy and well presented. Pretty much everything can be made with just tofu and vegetables. However be sure to ask since some dishes are not complete vegetarian, they are cooked in oysters sauce. I love the fact that they have Japanese, Chinese, Korean, Vietnamese and Thai food here, but where is Filipino? It would be great if they add Vegetarian Adobo or Pancit Noodles. Those can be made vegetarian or even vegan. I think the staff here is very nice, the food is reasonably priced and the establishment is clean. You know another good thing about this particular location? You can pick up the free wi-fi from Starbucks next door.
(5)Andrew F.
This used to be a 5 star location. My wife and I would eat at this restaurant or pick up from it almost once a week. The last couple months have been a different story, however. Food quality has dropped, wait times have been crazy, and now they don't pick up the phone. I ordered online once, and it took over 45 minutes to get an order that was only supped to take 10 minutes. After waiting in the store for 30 minutes, I located my bag of food sitting in the corner and had to ask the employee to hand it to me (food was very cold). The lady working the counter was also very rude. Another time, I also spent 12 minutes on hold, even though the phone system told me I was the next call to be answered. I have been really let down by this location. You also can't seem to trust their gluten free food anymore, as my wife has been having problems after eating their food.
(2)Laura G.
BOMB this place is my spot, you get a lot of food for your money. the vietnamise chicken salad rolls are so bomb. love the chill music. and the interior its pretty cool and chill also. i come here like every other week. BOMB!
(5)Richard R.
Like it's big brother PF Chang's, Pei Wei really isn't anything special. I'm always perplexed by the way a lot people rave about it. I eat at this location once in a great while because it's very close to work. I can order food online, and the amount of time it takes to get to my car and drive over is exacly the time it's supposed to be ready. But the truth about all these chain Asian places is that pretty much every meal tastes similar, and nothing is all that great. Overall, it feels like a slightly higher quality version of fast food. I ordered the Orange Peel Chicken. It has a little bit of a kick from chili peppers, but to label it as "spicy" on the menu is a joke. The sauce was okay, but like I said earlier, nothing spectacular. Like most chains, it kind of has that "out of box" taste. I'll give Pei Wei credit for good prices and portion sizes. I also love that brown rice is an option. The online ordering is also convenient and easy. The people who work at the take out counter are quick and friendly (although they never put napkins in the bag unless you ask, that should be standard). Pei Wei is the definition of A-OK, but if I'm looking for more than a quick meal, there's too many good local Asian restaurants that are worth checking out first.
(3)Leonilo W.
Pei Wei Combo! Need I say more? :)
(4)Amanda P.
Its the fast food version of PF Changs
(3)Daniel G.
Food was brought to table very quickly, staff was friendly and efficient, and my kung pao chicken was piping hot and enjoyable. Not top notch in the flavor department, but far from bad. Also, Pei Wei's has the coolest soda fountain around, with about 2 bazillion soda flavors. The place is clean, and the restrooms are well-kept. And despite all the complaining about parking space, at 6 pm tonite (a Saturday) there was a couple of open parking spaces. And this is probably the safest restaurant in the city of Phoenix - there was 8 uniformed Phoenix Police Officers (and god knows how many detectives!) in the dining room this evening.
(4)Kurdy S.
If you are in the working vicinity of 7th Ave & McDowell Rd and have a craving for cheap and tasty ASIAN, this is the spot to grab lunch during M-F. First off, it is faaaar from being authentic Asian. The menu comprise of Chinese, Japanese, and Thai inspiration. For a full meal with drink, the average cost is $9-10. The 'Noodle and Rice Bowls' is going to be your bang for your buck dishes. My favorites are Pad Thai and Fried Rice. Very tasty! No matter how big my appetite is, I always end up boxing it later, but it'll make a great snack later!! :) My other favorite is the Mongolian Beef! Very tasty!! The keyword is TASTY! not Authentic, but TASTY! If you are not familiar, most dishes come with WHITE or BROWN rice. The flavor and ultimate concept is to please the general taste bud who adores Chinese and Japanese food without the exotic ingredients. Simple Asian packed with TASTY flavors! If you seek authentic Chinese or Japanese, then you need to Yelp else where! That is the only caveat! ;-) Also, this particular location is ALWAYS packed during lunch time. ALWAYS! So expect a line between 11am and 12pm. Parking is going to be very scarce too during this peak time!
(4)Kelvin H.
Ordered online and my food was ready, hot, and delicious. Cute girl behind the counter was very sweet and efficient. Love Pei Wei every now and then they are a bit pricy for the amount of "protein" to rice equation. Other then that. Its Fabulosity.
(3)Nora V.
This Pei Wei is consistant with it's orders being correct & clean. My one wish is that the parking lot it shares with Starbucks & Sidebar were about 15 cars larger. I don't see that happening but a girl can wish can't she?
(3)David L.
This location is visually seductive. Their version of the vegetable spring rolls, hot & sour soup. Mandarin kung pao and fried Rice are successes, no question about it. The Vegi rolls are bright, aromatic, spicy, sweet. An impressive cold appetizer. The hot & sour authentic soup is essentially an ancient doctor's curative healing magic combined with taste. Mandarin kung pao a super familiar dish that delivers if you eat the peppers. And the fried rice, a basic godsend. My expectations are met.
(4)Jay G.
I occasionally order take- out from this one, so I will address the McDowell location specifically. The parking lot is completely too small for the volume of lunch and dinner business they generate. It's in a bad part of Phoenix, so I don't recommend parking down one of the neighborhood streets. However, if you need a Phoenix cop, this place is swarming with them like flies. One day I counted (5) patrol units in the parking lot. The food is good however, and they are amenable to changing menu items to suit your palate. Though a bit overpriced for what is essentially "fast food" it's still tastes better than other Chinese take-out joints.
(2)Sabrina W.
The biggest problem with Pei Wei is attempting to find an available parking space. This particular location shares building space with Starbucks and The Side Bar. At certain times of the day or night (lunch/dinner ), it's nearly impossible to find parking. The solution I've found is to pass the Pei Wei parking lot on McDowell and turn left into the business parking lot for EBL instead. They tend to have open parking spots (watch out for reserved spaces) that are a lot closer than parking across the street. In fact, I usually park at the EBL lot and walk to Pei Wei or Starbucks that way I'm never creeping around the lot, stalking patrons for their prime parking spaces. My co-workers and I frequent Pei Wei on a weekly basis. We order online and pick up at the restaurant; I've never, in the 2 years we've been doing this, had a problem with an online order. (We did have issues with call-in orders, but that has been over a year ago when they forgot to include my entrée. I made a trip back, my order was comped, and I was given two free lettuce wrap coupons. I left happy.) Often times, if we have more than a few minutes wait, Pei Wei comps us free drinks. (AKA Awesome customer service!) Their computerized drink machines are just too cool - any place that allows me to select syrups to add to my fountain drink is A-OK in my book. During the past two years, I've had the opportunity to sample nearly every item on the menu. My absolute favorites are (in no particular order): Coconut Curry Chicken, Shrimp Pad Thai, Ginger Broccoli (their version of beef & broccoli - tastes similar to the Mongolian which is also delicious), Japanese Chile Ramen with Beef, Pei Wei Spicy & Pei Wei Spicy Chicken Salad, Crab Wontons, Lettuce Wraps, and the Vietnamese Chicken Salad Rolls (though I am the only one of my friends who likes the salad rolls). A handy tip for those ordering online is the "customize" button. This allows you to select whether you'd like to add extra sauce (for free!) to your order or for the cooks to make your entrée extra spicy. There's a bunch of other options to choose from like steaming veggies or protein selections. Pei Wei is one of my favorite restaurants. I even like it better than (gasp) P.F. Chang's because you can get some of the exact same dishes (Spicy Chicken, Mongolian, Lettuce Wraps) for a lot less cash. I also love the ambiance of the downtown Phoenix location - the red brick walls and unique flooring do a lot to add the kind of personality that most restaurant chains lack. Whether you're dining in or picking your meal up, you really can't go wrong with Pei Wei.
(5)Bacon B.
Pei Wei helped to prevent me from making a total ass of myself last night after a day of drinking off and on since noon. We found ourselves at SideBar and I was mixing drinks. Not the smartest thing to do after taking it light for eating lunch. But, I'm prone to making bad decisions so rarely surprise myself. I ordered the crab-stuffed wontons and edimame, took that back upstairs and both helped take the edge out of my hunger pangs. Enough to have another cocktail!
(4)Dee T.
I have eaten at other Pei Wei locations and have been satisfied. However last nights purchase of four entrees was very disappointing. The Dan Dan steak entree was so overcooked I think they mixed up our order with the nursing home order, you couldn't eve bite the noodles, they just mushed in your mouth. The teriyaki chicken was also overcooked, totally dried out and without any sauce on the meat or veggies. To top off the insult, only 2 fortune cookies came with our order of 4 entrees, is the economy so bad we are sharing fortune cookies now?
(1)Evan B.
Yes this is a chain created by Paul Flemming, however the food is decent, there are many vegetarian choices and this location adds a bit of local flavor to the chain's formula. On my last visit I opted the the yellow curry Thai noodles with tofu. First i would like to say is that the Tofu at Pei Wei is some of the best, it is firm and has a skin with a different texture than the bulk of it. The noodles were standard floppy wide rice noodles with with some veggies. the sauce did lack the punch you would get from a genuine Thai place however. Some other nice things about this chain include: *Order at the counter format: save on the tip *Self serve fountain drinks: Faster refills impress the date by getting them for her * Many condiments: Spice the meal to taste. *All you can eat fortune cookies: Don like your fortune? Try another! Parking here can be a bit of a challenge, but you can park on the next residential block south of here. There also is only one menu, so lunch prices can be a bit steep, crossing the $10 line.
(3)Jane S.
This place can never get an online or over the phone order right! I don't know if its because they can't read or they don't care!
(1)Inday C.
First time here and what a big disappointment! I like Pei Wei, been to several branches but this is one that I will not go back to. Our order was taken efficiently but when the food came, the beef dish we ordered was super salty! So we hailed a server and told her that the dish was too salty. All she could say was, do you want to have the dish changed? So we decided to have only one order replaced since we were halfway through eating the other order which came with the fried rice (that we liked) we would changed just one order of the same dish. We had ordered two. So she took one dish away and also removed the other dish. Maybe we had a communicated breakdown (she could barely speak English), but she replaced only one dish. So why did she take the other dish away too???? She had an angry face and was not happy at all! Guess my complaint is, we paid for a dish, it got taken away and there was no offer to refund us??? Yes, one order was replaced, which was still too salty but we decided to just let it go. That's all I have to say about that...
(2)Phyllis K.
This is my very mostest favorite Pei Wei! Food is THE BEST. I don't know why, but this particular location makes the BEST Pei Wei food. Perhaps it's the incredible volume of business that they turn everyday~ they've truly got the magic touch. I am a regular there for lunch, at least once a week. It is almost always crazy busy. They are efficient and friendly. The food is always prepared well. You THINK a chopped chicken salad is the same here as at other Pei Wei's? NOT SO, my friend! THIS one knows just how long to poach it, debone and deskin it, and the proper dice. It is always a sublime salad experience. Whatever your favorite PeiWei dish is, it will be prepared better at this location. Parking here can be a bear, but there is a lot across the street for overflow traffic- southeast corner of 7th Av and McDowell. Go. But go after 1pm, when I'm gone.
(5)Amy B.
I was kinda hungry, and on my way out for NYE, and decided to pick up some dinner to keep the stomach quiet. I decided on pei wei, and enjoyed my experience. I guess its supposed to be a low key version of PF changs, and the food and decor was just as nice as the PF changs resturants. Service was quick, location was clean, dinner was tasty. I got the sweet and sour chicken, and the servings were huge! I was expecting some kind of comprimise on serving size, for whatever reason, but clearly this was not the case. I enjoyed my experience here, and would probably return if I was in the area and looking for a reliable place to eat.
(4)Phoenix N.
I eat at this location pretty frequently, but usually get take-out rather than dine in. This time we dined in. The parking there continues to be a nightmare. Not sure why they chose this location but if you don't go super early or super late, you will play hell trying to park. The food we ordered was tasty like always and the serving was good sized. HOWEVER, a manager or someone in a position of authority, really needs to walk the dining area and move the high school crowd outside who are only having a soda. We sat at a table close to them and the profanity they were spewing was outrageous and they were quite loud. I looked around many times, hoping a staff member would notice and re-direct them, but to no avail. I actually saw one couple who sat down by them move to the other side of the dining room. I'm sure it was because of the X-rated filth coming out of their mouths. It was like a low rent version of the cast of "GLEE" without manners or boundaries. It was enough that we ate quickly and left. I would have enjoyed staying longer and maybe even having another glass of wine, but not with that crowd ruining the experience. This place is nice and can really be a good dining experience, but someone really needs to monitor the high school kids. If I had brought my grandchildren along, I would have certainly sought out a manager and demanded they be made to leave. Not cool Pei Wei. Somebody needs to step it up in that department.
(3)Michael J.
I generally avoid any type of chain but decided to make an exception and was glad I did. The Thai coconut curry was exceptionally good, I was really surprised. Think I will have to make an exception to my rule and come back here again.
(4)Amy D.
"Hi, may I take your order?" blah blah blah I order Then, I feel like they should have said: "Would you like some food to go with that sodium?" Gross. Couldn't even eat it.
(2)Amy Z.
I love the food here but its getting harder and harder to find a parking spot. They share a small parking lot with starbucks and a place upstairs called The Side Bar. I highly recommend you never go here after 5pm if you want dinner because you will NEVER find a parking spot. I would suggest going to one of their other locations in the valley.
(2)Ceejay Y.
gotta try the carmel chicken just once, its bomb! I don't have any major complaints but the interior was really big and spacious, I was sort of surprised by this. The amount of food you get for the price is good , I don't think it was price unreasonably at all. Oh props for their drink machines they have over 107 different flavors of beverages. LOL 4 STARS
(4)Sammy G.
I love this Pei-Wei location. I've been coming here since they opened about 4 years ago. Great renovation of an old building makes for a great atmosphere. Service is pretty good; especially the sisters who work the floor and have been there since Day 1...very sweet women and always take care of all your needs...leave 'em a buck or two, they work hard! Yeah, parking is a pain if you eat right at high noon or between 5 and 7pm. I often stop on my way home from the gym and pick up take away food; much easier. Everything I have tried on the menu is just great. Really love their Thai Chicken and their Thai Coconut Curry ... my fave main dishes. All 3 salads are great, and the Chopped Chicken Salad is actually way healthy when I'm watching my diet. They just came out with some small plates; my man tried the chicken lemongrass salad small plate last night and it was really awesome. They have a good test kitchen to come up with this stuff. And I know it makes me sound like an idiot, but the really cool Coke dispensing machine is the bomb. I usually just have the Lemonade Lite, but wow...6 flavors! haha. good stuff.
(5)Christine J.
I know it's greasy. I also know that whenever I eat it, I get a feeling in my stomach like I swallowed a rock. Chinese food is supposed to be greasy, but there's often something a little off about Pei Wei. So why the 3 stars? Because they have the most incredible, firm, flavorful tofu ever. It's not a nice dark skin around it and it takes on the flavor of their oh-so-sodium-filled sauces without becoming a soggy mess. It really is tofu perfection. I also appreciate their awesome to-go options (order online or on your mobile browser) and the fact that they notate on their menu (with a leaf) which options are vegetarian. This place isn't the best Chinese ever, but I think it's decent if you're looking for something fast and very vegetarian-friendly.
(3)Fred M.
I'm not too ashamed to admit that I actually *like* Pei Wei. Of course, this is also my favorite location due to the building they are in. It's a historic adaptave reuse that they really did a great job with. The menu is great because they really offer crowd pleasing food (uninteresting) at pretty fair prices. I spend less on take out here than if I go to China Chili, and the portions are about the same. They also give me the option of having brown rice which is great. Their mongolian beef I'm quite sure is filled with meth or crack or something. It's a very addicting flavor, and helps to make sure you get your years worth of sodium that day.
(4)Carmelo W.
Parking sucks and birds are fearless if you eat outside. Other than that, its your average pei wei
(3)Norm R.
Good value, good location, good prices. But whoa!! you guys in the kitchen ... take it easy on the sugar! I do have a sweet tooth, but I prefer to have my sugar in my desserts, not in my entrees! I've eaten here many times, mainly because my swim team comes here often after evening swim practice, and I've ordered different things each time. And almost every dish I ordered seemed to have sugar as one of the main ingredients. I guess they figure that's what the American palate expects in food, even Asian food.
(3)Matthew V.
Pei Wei is one of my lunch destinations. I usually order Orange Peel Tofu and Vegetables or The Spicey Korean with Tofu. The portions are huge and I usually get brown rice as my choice of rice. Pei Wei is fast. The orders come out of that kitchen very quickly. Their ice tea is excellent. You can choose from Mandarin Orange or Chai. They have sliced oranges and lemons for tea. (A nice touch) Three stars people.
(3)Ryan G.
A great place to grab a bite if you're out of time and happen to be downtown. Notable dishes which I recommend are the Spicy Korean and Tai Mango Chicken. I mean if you really wanted to try something spicy, healthy and delicious, you wouldn't be gnarling those Big Macs, would you? Plus, Zoe's is just going to take forever and I don't think you want to eat at a greek IKEA. - Time is but an illusion--lunch time, doubly so - Do tai chi or yoga before you find a parking spot - Grab as many fortune cookies as you can without feeling guilty
(4)Jared S.
Pei Wei makes me sad. Sad because it is literally the ONLY "Chinese" food a downtown resident of the 5th largest city in the country can get for lunch on a lazy hungover Sunday afternoon. :-(
(1)Jamie F.
Good food for lunch, but I would not eat dinner here. I like the almond chicken, the cashew chicken and broccoli beef. Avoid the white rice. It is not as good for you as the brown, and Pei Wei tends to leave it in the pot too long after it is cooked. Which means my white rice was mushy and crunky at the same time. Bleagh! Fast service from the time of order to the plate-slam on the table. Get in, get full, get out. This place is about 6 blocks north of the 7th Ave. exit from I-10, so it is possibly a rest stop for the through traveler going somewhere else.
(3)Nathan S.
My brief review in haiku form: Cheap PF Chang's fix. Better than Panda Express You can get beer here. Thank you.
(4)Erica D.
I love Pei Wei because I love any restaurant that has a #glutenfree menu. However, unlike it's BFF PF Changs, this restaurant has very limited choices for their GF menu. I stick to the sweet and sour chicken. I usually order with extra vegetables and light sauce (the sauce is a bit intense). I also get the edamame. Seriously, I miss the crab wontons more than I miss bread. They JUST started offering #glutenfree soy sauce (tamari) packets! HOORAY PEI WEI! BUT this restaurant gets a 3-star review (honestly a 3.5) because of the AWFUL PARKING LOT. Add 10 minutes to your destination to drive around the small parking lot if you want a close spot - OR - park in the SE corner behind the antique mall and walk over. Also, the patio is great to sit at, but there's a big pigeon problem. They'll attack your food if you let them! I always get to-go here and it's usually pretty decent. Today they a) gave me the wrong meal in my to-go bag and I had to call and ask them to come out and exchange my meal. However, when I got back and opened up the to-go container, they had forgotten the extra vegetables I requested. MAKE SURE you check what you're getting to-go, especially if you are #glutenfree!
(3)Roger R.
Parking is sometimes rough, but I love this place.
(5)K. M.
I've been to other locations several times but this was my first and last visit to this location. I always order the Thai Coconut Curry with chicken and rice noodles. I placed my order just like that. The person ringing me up seemed very distracted as she asked me three times if I wanted brown or white rice. I said rice noodles a total of FOUR times. I got my order and brought it back to work for lunch. When I opened it up, the first thing that I noticed was that it was made with regular noodles, not rice noodles. The worst part, though, was that EVERY SINGLE PIECE of chicken was chewy and fatty. Disgusting!! Never going to this location again.
(1)Lee C.
For the price the food is great value, portions are good and the staff are very pleasant. Great thing is you can finish off your meal with a Starbucks from next door.
(4)Amy O.
Love this place for lunch! there quick whether its take out or dine in! My fav. are the spring rolls & lettuce wraps!
(4)Lucas S.
I concur with other reviews in that Pei Wei is overhyped... It's not bad, but it's definitely nothing to write home about. I had the Japanese ramen plate on my most recent visit and it satisfied my hunger, but I would definitely not be inclined to order it again if return. I suppose the appeal of this place to many could be that it is simply accessible in the sense that it's a comfortable establishment and not one that you might be hesitant about entering. So go ahead, try it out and then go find some good Asian food the next time you're in the mood.
(3)Mike F.
Just grabbed a Togo order from this pei Wei, defiantly the best one I've been too. The building is an old brick spot, located below Side Bar and sharing a wall with Starbucks (heaven on earth perhaps?). Legit city style complete with exposed wood ceiling beams and brick walls. The sode machine is intense though, user be warned. 1 spout, 100+ choice, all touch screen! this aint for your grand pappy!!! Great, fast and friendly service. Line moves quick. Togo has their own door/cashier. Only problem is parking. I come here for Starbucks sometimes and every-time vow never to come back due to parking. Maybe I just need a longer fuse? On second thought, Nope. Improve parking please. Thanks. 4 stars only due to parking being such a pain.
(4)Libby J.
What the heck?! My fiance and I eat here weekly, this is my neighborhood Pei-Wei and our experiences have been crazy bad lately! :( Last time my fiance ordered Kung Pao Chicken. It came out with no snow peas. My fiance asked about it and the server says, "yeah, we just ran out of them". No extra peanuts, no "can I substitute something else for you?"...nothing. End of discussion, apparently. Tonight we go in about 7:30pm and my fiance was daydreaming a bit after he received his receipt. The cashier informed him, "you can leave now". We receive our usual; his Kung Pao Chicken and my lettuce wraps. His Kung Pao noodles were so overcooked they were like chewing paste. My lettuce wraps tasted fine, but two hours later and I was incapacitated with stomach pains. Just finished expunging the remainder of the wraps, and I am starting to feel okay. And no, it could not have been anything else I ate. Or a virus. They don't come and go so quickly. Next time we are craving Pei-Wei, we will be making the drive to the East Phoenix location.
(1)arik b.
Just because i feel like doing something different. :P i'm just going to paste some song lyrics that i feel sum up Pei Wei on McDowell... Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here I said the truth is here the truth is here I want more Give me more We want more God damn it I'm back to demand we get more We want more I want more and more and more I want more We need more I want more God damn it I'm back to demand we get more Give me more I want more and more and more [Verse 1:] I stand here naked as the day I was born Face to the dawn and my faith in the song Blood soaking the pages I painted em' on And none of ya'll will take my place when I'm gone I'm the pure raw uncut, who the fuck want what Here to show you sucker ass mutts what's the fucks what Brother Ali vow solemnly not to die while the music is still inside of me It's got to be allowed to breathe Got to let it out enough at least to let the monster flee I want more than what your offering me Songs that make me feel like I'm already free I'm a rebel in my own right Ya'll don't want to write or think or speak a rhyme standing next to me When the game need it I'm exactly what it need Put the soul in the speech, let it go, let it be [Chorus: x2] I want more We need more I want, god damn it I'm back to demand we get more Give me more I want more and more and more I said the truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is [Verse 2:] Not nearly a single solitary soul Still put the kind of passion to the mic that I hold One day it'll have to be pried from my cold dead hand Until then the big man is gold Got one lone reason to go on breathing Climb into the zone of the evening, keep reaching Just to pull more out the core of the deamon The people need to see them pure human being Blood, sweat, love, hate, life, death, joy, pain Little child running wild striped to the raw veins Rugged junkyard dog off the chain, barefoot balls out marching in the rain Sacred war dance suspended in the moment We throw the fuck down like our lives depended on it Jaws of the streets with our heart on our sleeve Throwing shots at the law which is all I believe [Chorus x2] [Verse 3:] Our songs are supposed to be the voice of our soul Not bought and sold, not all controlled Bring a little fire when the world get cold Let me shed a few tears and to me you went gold People need more freedom Children need to hear more truth when ya'll teach em' Damn I want to hear a plan from the dude preaching Got new seeds with true needs and who's leading I truly believe every word I've ever uttered on a drum break Right or wrong, life go on but it wasn't nothing fake I demand you start listening to the crowd If not - we gon burn this bitch to the ground [Chorus x2] I said the truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is here Truth is here the truth is the atmosphere is pretty hot here too..exposed brick always makes me Yelp!
(5)Curt L.
Two stars for a clean place and friendly people. The food was just not very good. The hot and sour soup was bland and thin. The fried dumplings were deep fried, not pan fried; the filling was good but the wrapper was more like an empenada, not a dumpling. The spicy Korean beef was drenched in soy sauce. No other flavor to it. It was so salty I could not eat it. They offered a replacement dish without complaint -- the chicken pad thai was just OK. I wouldn't go back.
(2)Mike S.
Pretty good. Your average Pei Wei. Parking is a huge pain in the ass here.
(3)Jason I.
It is what it is. I like this Pei Wei (WARNING) just do not come here between 1115am-1230pm unless you want to wait for the business crowd. Its a favorite location due to being so close to starbucks and right off of 7th ave. Parking is terrible during these hours also. If you do want to come here for lunch during your work day I would suggest try getting here at 11am at least you wont have to wait long. I usually call in and go pick it up if I cant make the 11am window. The food is good. As good as pei wei gets. Its always fresh and the taste and texture is what I would expect. My favorite is probably the curry chicken. I ask for extra spicy. The pot stickers are awesome too they are deep fried though. They have this chilli sauce by the soda fountain that is killer. I love it. Overall I would say not a family friendly place during lunch hours but anytime after the lunch rush is good. Get your Pei Wei on.
(4)Aba J.
Way too crowded for lunch but they seem to hire very attentive staff so I give this place at least 3 stars. Nice building, nice food but just too crowded, I don't know how it got so famous but apparently it did. Another restaurant is needed on this corner to make some more competition.
(3)Scott R.
This use to be one of my favorite places for lunch but it has gone considerably down hill since the chain was bought out by a non local investment firm. Service is lackluster at best and thy do not provide a level of service the business use to maintain. Staff act as if they are doing you a favor by being served and are not the least bit friendly. On several occasions, I have been cut off by a staff member who was in a hurry to get somewhere. If you order a combo plate, the bring your entree out with the soup so your entree will be cold by the time you finish the app. Overall, the food quality is about the same. They need to improve their service if they don't wish to lose diners.
(2)Tiphanie B.
i tried the thai river noodles. they will not replace the love i have for a dan dan noodle bowl. but the thai noodles, they were good. i like this place because it has really opened hours compared to everything else around here. and the food in inconsistent. oh also, the new soda machines are very entertaining. just watch.... this is usually a last resort option (everything else in the area is closed). but it is a good one nonetheless.
(5)Chris M.
Chicken fried rice Yum. Friendly employees. Could have been cleaner.
(3)Melissa H.
LEMON PEPPER IS BACK! I don't know when it got re-introduced on the menu, but this seriously made my day. Just for that, I am bumping this Pei Wei up to 4 stars. Quick service even when the line is out the door; friendly service; and delicious lemon pepper chicken. Pei Wei can now officially be added back to our lunch rotation.
(4)Michael J.
Sunday afternoons at one require more than one cashier. Lined up customers for dine in, and a growing line for pick up and take out. A tad dysfunctional. Wound up @ Tokyo express...
(2)Thomas S.
Perhaps you know that guy who likes to talk in "quotes". Well, he would definitely be at home at Pei Wei, and especially at this location. Set in Phoenix's "historic district" Pei Wei is supposed to represent a sign of "urban renewal" for the city's core. It's wedged on a very small parcel of land at the southwest corner of McDowell and 7th Avenue. As alluded to it's "parking lot" causes one to draw lots...because there's no guarantee of finding a space if you fancy eating a meal other than breakfast or dinner here. Nevertheless, the restaurant's architecture embodies a bit more "character" than one might be used to Arizona. Free-standing, it favors a "sophisticated" and "historic" look with brick-lined interiors. Inevitably, there will be a prodigious line awaiting you (and your money). This is actually a benefit to you trying to read the "menu' posted on boards along the entry-way. The selections are all "Asian fusion" which defies description probably as much as the term "electability". Don't be fooled, there is little or no guarantee that any person of Asian descent got within miles of providing any contribution to your meal. Nevertheless, the food has been carefully calibrated to appeal to the "fast casual" palette. And adhering to the mantra of "fast casual", you'll find all the service quality of Souplantation. You order your food, you take your number, they give you a table, they drop off your food and they take away your tray. This "forward-looking" and "innovative" human resource strategy doesn't seem to solve the wait for your food, but it probably does keep costs down. The spectre of "gentrification" tends to raise prices...but in this regard Pei Wei still appeals to the rapidly disappearing "middle class". It's not possible to match the "value" of say In-N-Out here, but you can eat for under $10 easily. And even though the company has lost the role of culinary "vanguard" to say, Pinkberry, it's still one of the better options for lunch in the shadow of downtown.
(3)Michele M.
Nice setup, hard to find a parking spot, and the food, too american to be consider real Asian food especially the Pad Thai, terrible! Need I say more. Other restaurants in the area that are so much better in so many ways.
(2)Bob B.
I've been to more than a few Pei Wei's to know a bad one when I see it. At least take-out-wise. Maybe they figure that once you're home you can't make a fuss but then there's YELP! (Hi fans) Let's talk portions. Minimal. Miniscule. Micro. Don't expect the same portion you would get sitting down to dine. And don't expect to pay less for it. They cheat you, plain and simple. Let's talk RIce. The worst white rice I've every had in a take-out. Mushy or rock hard lumps. Need I say more? Let's talk Sauce. At this store they consider sauce a garnish. You get more moisture from the soy sauce packet. If they gave you 1/4 the rice, it would be the right amount for the entree sauce they serve up. As it is, what you get will just about color half the rice portion. Finally, accuracy. It is near impossible to get a perfect order from these people. I've tried ordering pork three times and got chicken twice and beef once. The last time I opened it in-store and said "I'd like pork in my Mongolian Pork please." It was chicken. It was a long wait for cold food. This has to be the worst-run Pei Wei in the franchise. Don't pay the premium price - you won't get your money's worth.
(1)Jon K.
Asian food for white people. Not terrible but very, very bland.
(3)Maggie H.
I pretty much don't care for any location of Pei Wei, but I'm reviewing this one as my office occassionally orders from this location. I don't totally loathe Pei Wei (hence the two stars), but if I had a choice to eat there I wouldn't. Anytime I have gotten chicken lettuce wraps from here they are always very greasy. Their wonton soup is pretty much broth with a couple of wontons. The blazing noodles are ok, but are a bit too spicy for me. The worst thing about this location is their teeny tiny parking lot. You can rarely ever find a parking space here. You can park around the corner in the neighborhood or across the street at the antique shop. If you plan to eat here on your lunch break from work good luck to you. You're better off getting take out. This place is so packed during the week for lunch you could probably spend your entire lunch hour and more waiting.
(2)Jonathan K.
After spending a year in Asia, I understand that Pei-Wei is not authentic. It boasts extremely americanized asian food. This is an awesome place if your getting take out or dining alone. I would avoid large groups. Pei-Wei is what I call a Hybrid Restaurant. You order as you walk in, and receive your drink from the cashier. You fill your beverage and have a seat. The waitress brings you your food. You will not get a paper cup. You will eat off of real plates with real utensils. If you need a refill, just ask! Staff is more than happy to help. It is very low maintenance and quick. The management team is superior, the are always available.
(4)Scott S.
Probably the best all-around every-day restaurant in Phoenix. It offers all 4 points: good food, great price, healthy choices, and fast service. And for those of us who live in downtown Phoenix...We finally have a place that stays open more than 20 hours a week! Thank you God, for giving us Pei Wei! And to all those other establishments in the downtown area that are only open Monday - Friday 11am-3pm, let Pei Wei be an example to you. There are people living down here, and we will come out and eat at restaurants that offer good food at good prices and stay open!!!
(5)Stephanie P.
If you have an oral fixation that manifests itself in the form of a diet coke addiction, it is worth going to this location for the beverage dispensers alone. I was very impressed by what they got goin on.
(4)Gregory H.
Hooray! A new place to eat great food! How can you not want that? I had the god fortune to get t watch this diner built from the get go. I have gotten to know the managers and the staff, all of which rock. These guys are doing an amazing job. I had never eaten at a Pei Wei prior to this one opening and have to say I'm now hooked!! I have tried almost everything on the menu and have yet to find something that I didn[t like. The food is always hot and fresh and ready when they tell me it will be. Parking is a bit of a problem, but with Starbucks Coffee literally right next door, it's worth the trouble. This place definately puts yummy in your tummy!!
(5)seth g.
This place is way beyond average..Chop n Wok or Flo's is a must go. If you have to have Pei Wei eat there and try something with scallops for a change
(2)Jim M.
This location is on my list! Let me give you a rundown of what happened last week. Keeping in mind I have been to this location many times and have had a great experience. We were hungry, didn't know what to get so we did the old standby and went to Pei Wei. We went in, place our order: -Pei Wei Spicy Chicken Salad -Thai Dynamite Chicken with brown rice -Vietnamese Chicken Salad Rolls. We were handed a buzzer (#8) because we were taking it to-go and were told the order will be about 10 min.... 15 min passed and I thought wow this is taking awhile, but I didn't want to be pushy so we waited, and waited, and waited and at 20 min, I looked at a table of people that placed their order after us. They were enjoying their meal... WHAT THE....?!?!?! So I walked over and said, "excuse me we haven't been buzzed and the people that placed their order after us seem to be enjoying their meal." She looked over at a bag just sitting on the counter (for God knows how long) and laughed and said in a "giggly voice" can I get you chop sticks or forks. I thought to myself, it's not EVEN worth getting mad, just leave... So I said both please, and left. Meanwhile we get to our destination, open our bag to: - Coconut Curry Chicken - a container with a plain salad - a container of chicken that goes in a lettuce wrap - Vietnamese Chicken Salad Rolls(that looked like they were rolled by a waffle cone maker. -and a sack of condiments. WHAT THE.....?!?!?!?! So I am LIVID at this point, but my partner makes the call, because I would probably reach through the phone at this point.... Everything was resolved over the phone. Unfortunately, for us our dinner experience did not meet our expectations on any level... I have been here when this manager was working before. I remember him being extremely helpful, very nice, and really knows his customer service. Unfortunately, I think it was a result of one person that completely ruined my experience. It will be some time before I go to this Pei Wei again.
(1)Sophie M.
I think it's funny how a lot of people think this place is "healthy". If only they knew... This place is alright. Once you've had a fair share of their menu it all starts to the taste the same. However, it is inexpensive, consistent, and a great place to go if it's a weekday night and you're just looking for a quick, relaxing bite. Also, this location's atmosphere blows all others out of the water. The floors and ceilings are amazing. Come here for dinner, though. Lunch during the week is outrageous, and good luck finding a parking spot in the ridiculously small parking lot Pei Wei and Starbucks share.
(3)Adam M.
I feel bad for giving this chain location a good review, especially after displacing Emerald Lounge and Wings n Things. That said.... it's down the block from my house, it's tasty and fresh, better than a couple local neighborhood non-chain places, and it's relatively healthy and fast. A good mix.
(4)Kaisar Nova K.
I swung by here a little while back on super bowl sunday. It was the only Thai place open after 9pm. Nice. They have a nice east asian fusion menu with plenty of spice and brown rice to boot. Prices are spot on. Plenty of room for parking, dining-in and chatting it up. The Pei Wei has my vote.
(4)van r.
The food is Okay. Not great, not terrible. But I think for what they are charging it should be better than okay. Also the tofu tastes wierd. I think it could use more flavoring. The orange chicken is very spicey, almost too spicey to not even enjoy it. The sweet&sour is good.
(2)Chris R.
In a hella convenient location nestled next door to a Starbucks, and facing McDowell Rd., you really can't go terribly wrong with this Pei Wei. Of course you have many other opportunities to eat better food in downtown Phoenix, but let's not take away the convenience, location, an early opening time and the fact that a heavy rotation of cops and troopers keep the zombies of 7th Ave at bay. We've all been to Pei-Wei so I won't describe the food, other than to comment that a every dish seems to be getting increasingly saltier with every visit. My spicy korean bowl with tofu and vegetables seemed to be positively drenched with salty goo... perhaps the kindly staff took pity on my tofu-ness and decided to compensate with every tool in their flavor arsenal. Or perhaps I just was feeling salt sensitive. Their salads are consistently flavorful and fresh, though I can't say I've ever encountered anything like them on my travels in Asia. Pei Wei is a successful Arizona invention from the team that started PF Changs so we should be proud of what they get right, and keep them honest on what they get wrong.
(3)John T.
Was ok. Plenty of flavor but I think I got the wrong dish. My coworkers looked great but mine was a bit disapointing. I would advise against the spicy Korean. Will be back out of curiosity.
(3)ben h.
I don't even care about authenticity issues. I'd eat a sushi filled with a taco if it was delicious. the food here is just criminally bland.
(1)Justin H.
This is like a fast food asian type of spot. Its pretty good for what it is. Stopped by here one day because it was close to a golf course that i wanted to play at. Think i had the lemon pepper chicken, it was good.
(3)Gene G.
My wife and I have gave them two chances. I wish we hadn't. Both times the food tasted...off. I won't hasten to guess the reason of the "offness", but I had to stop eating the food both times for fear of becoming ill.
(2)Paul B.
This is a nice addition to the neighborhood. They were able to take an existing building and preserve it, featuring the original brickwork and beams. The building is shared with a Starbucks. Pei Wei is no great shakes but there are not a lot of options in an area where everything opens for lunch and then closes at 3. The potstickers are quite good, I like the Pei Wei Spicy Beef. My wife tends to order the lettuce wraps, but has been disappointed with the quality of the lettuce at least once. All of our visits here have been for carryout. They handle phone orders very efficiently. Parking is problematic here. There are a couple of spots reserved for carryout but they are not respected. There have been a couple of times when it looked like I might have to park across 7th Ave in the antique store, but I have been lucky so far.
(3)Michael L.
The building is very much an improvement for the neighborhood. It looks good but one might have a hard time finding parking during high hours. It did not take long to get our order taken by a gently speaking man. We each ordered a different dish and we all enjoyed that which we ate. I never mind if food fits or not a particular set thought, such as being Asian. If it is good is all that matters to me, it was all very fresh and well presented. So once again I had a very pleasant lunch with friends.
(4)Thomas S.
With all the mediocore to scathing reviews, I've always said No Way to Pei Wei. I ordered for pick up and had a very friendly, helpful, if not Jeff Spicoli sounding, employee help me with my first ever Pei Wei experience. At 9pm on a Thursday night there was plenty of parking and I found the little Pei Wei place to be 1/4 full and actually a nice looking room. The surly person (manager type) who rung up my order, must have had to much MSG as he was irritable and I must say a bit puffy. But most importantly, after devouring our take out, Rickie and I voted four thumbs up (that's two thumbs for each of us, times two, carry the one...well you get the idea) for three of the four items. So spring rolls, potstickers and Korean beef....you'll soon be hanging with us again soon. Pad Thai? Yea. You're not invited. Unless you can sauce it up a bit and find it in your heart to bring along more tofu and veggies. But I'm not counting on it. Pei Wei? Yes way for this gay! OK!?
(3)