photos by Joey Stewart
Located in the former spaces of The Koi Way, Hei Hei, and Atomic Pie, Pan Asian is the latest culinary venture to open in Lake Highlands. Offering a unique blend of Korean, Chinese, and Japanese dishes, the restaurant fills a much-needed void in the area, especially after the closure of Bo Bo China. The restaurant had a soft launch just before Christmas and has already begun to make its mark on the local dining scene.
Pan Asian's owner, Jarren Wang, comes from a family deeply entrenched in the Dallas restaurant industry. His family runs the popular Howard Wang chain of restaurants, and Wang himself grew up working in these establishments. It was here, among the hustle and bustle of the kitchen, that he developed his passion for food.
"I learned the value of teamwork and collaboration while working in my family's restaurants," Wang said. "I loved being part of something bigger and growing up surrounded by food. Afterward, I expanded my culinary expertise in New York City and Austin before returning to Dallas."
Now, Wang aims to make Pan Asian a neighborhood staple, offering an eclectic menu that stands out from previous tenants in the space. Unlike the more traditional options that came before it, Pan Asian's diverse offerings fuse flavors from across Asia, providing a new dining experience for locals.
The menu features a variety of dishes, including classic Korean bulgogi, japchae (a savory clear noodle dish), and Japanese ramen. For those craving bold flavors, the Chinese menu brings options like kung pao chicken and fiery dan dan noodles, which showcase the spice of Sichuan cuisine. Fans of Americanized Chinese fare can enjoy favorites like orange chicken and General Tso's.
Noodles are a standout feature at Pan Asian, with offerings like yakisoba (Japanese buckwheat noodles), flat noodles, and pad Thai with tofu and vegetables. Customers can add proteins such as chicken or beef for an extra charge. Hong Kong-style fried noodles with a choice of meat and udon are also available for those seeking hearty noodle dishes.
In addition to its wide range of entrees, Pan Asian offers a variety of vegetarian options, all made with a special mushroom-based soy sauce. The restaurant also features an extensive drinks menu, including seven types of sake and a variety of sake-based cocktails, alongside beer and wine options.
Since opening, takeout orders have been especially popular, and Wang is excited to engage with the local community. "We're focused on building relationships with our guests and creating a sense of community," Wang shared. With its delicious food and welcoming atmosphere, Pan Asian looks set to become a beloved spot in Lake Highlands for years to come.