Pei Wei vs PF Chang's

[bobk]

I had a nice lunch at Pei Wei today. I love that place, but really dislike PF Chang's. Its odd because they're run by the same company and have similar menus. The only thing Chang's has going for it are the nice, theatrical dining rooms. The food is fairly greasy and not that impressive. I also dislike the cost and long waits to get a table. It's just not worth it.

However, lots of people obviously like it. I'm curious what you all think. Do you like either one or both? Maybe I've just been unlucky, although the three times I went to Chang's were all different locations.

[Bittersweet]

I had a nice lunch at Pei Wei today. I love that place, but really dislike PF Chang's.

Me too! Love Pei Wei. However, I've tried multiple food items at PF Chang's and each has been just "meh." Thought I was the only one.

[diggitydot]

I'll take Pei Wei over PF Chang's every time.

[MsSassyBaskets]

Never been to a Pei Wei, but I head to a PF Chang's (or used to, when I lived near one) when I get that craving for "generic mall asian food" and want something gluten free. For that reason alone, I love it.

[Chrisada]

Haha! Never heard of Pei Wei's but made DH take me to PF Chang last night. I love their Great Wall of chocolate.

[ladymoreta]

Me too! Love Pei Wei. However, I've tried multiple food items at PF Chang's and each has been just "meh." Thought I was the only one.

Me too! I felt silly for liking the fast food version better, but I agree that PF Chang's usually disappoints.

[GrayMatterWife]

I like Asian food, so I don't really either place.

They're fine. They are Amer-Asian, with the heavy emphasis on the "Amer" part.

Weird that I point this out, I guess, since Tex-Mex is my absolute favorite food.

[SoonerTexan]

I'm with you BOb. I love PeiWei but there is only one thing on PF Changs menu I sort of like AND they are pricey.

[Deebs]

I don't love either, but I miss having a Pei Wei close. It was a great place to take the kids on my own.

[bobk]

Glad I'm not alone on this! I agree that Pei Wei is heavily Americanized, but I'm fine with that. I don't get too hung up on the authenticity of ethnic restaurants. Unless they're in a really big city, they have to make at least a few compromises just to stay open. As long as they have fresh ingredients, a few vegetables, and some interesting flavors I'm good.

[Thirteen]

I like Asian food, so I don't really either place.

They're fine. They are Amer-Asian, with the heavy emphasis on the "Amer" part.

Weird that I point this out, I guess, since Tex-Mex is my absolute favorite food.

So true! When offered the choice between either/or, I usually cringe. *laugh*

[Momo]

Looks like GMW,13 & I are of the same opinion. I can't stand big chain Amer-Asian food places: Elephant Room, PF Chnags, Pei Wei & Panda Express...blah!

[corn poffi]

Add me to that club...not a fan of Americanized Asian food. Tex-Mex on the other hand....drool...

[GreyhoundsRUs]

I'll be the outlier and say that I really enjoy PF Changs. I've never had/heard of the other, though.

[scrub-jay]

Looks like GMW,13 & I are of the same opinion. I can't stand big chain Amer-Asian food places: Elephant Room, PF Chnags, Pei Wei & Panda Express...blah!

Me too. I was ridiculously spoiled in college in the Bay Area, where there are phenomenal authentic hole-in-the-wall places on every corner.