Dragon Pan has become a household name in the Myrtle Beach area, and for good reason. Whether you're craving fresh sushi prepared by skilled chefs or authentic hibachi entrees, dragon pan myrtle beach delivers consistently impressive dishes. Additionally, the restaurant maintains a spotless environment with attentive staff who never hover unnecessarily. In fact, locals like myself frequently recommend china dragon myrtle beach sc to visitors specifically for its generous portions at reasonable prices, especially during weekday lunch hours between 11 AM and 3 PM.
As someone who's sampled nearly everything on the menu, I'm excited to share which dishes locals consistently order and what you absolutely shouldn't miss during your visit. From shareable appetizers to signature sushi rolls and hibachi combinations that keep regulars coming back, this guide will help you navigate the dragon pan menu like a true Myrtle Beach insider.
Top Appetizers Locals Always Start With
At Dragon Pan, starting your meal with the right appetizers sets the tone for an outstanding dining experience. Locals know exactly which starters to order before diving into their main courses. Through countless visits and taste tests, I've identified the must-try appetizers that consistently earn rave reviews from regular patrons.
Crab Rangoon and Spring Rolls
The crab rangoon at Dragon Pan stands as one of the most frequently ordered appetizers, garnering numerous positive reviews from regular customers [1]. This crispy delight features a creamy mixture of cream cheese and chopped imitation crab meat, perfectly seasoned with a hint of garlic powder and green onions. What makes these rangoons special is their perfectly crisp exterior that gives way to a warm, savory filling.
Paired with the crab rangoon, spring rolls offer a lighter complement that locals consistently order. The vegetarian spring rolls [2] provide a satisfying crunch with every bite. Many Dragon Pan regulars opt for this classic combination because they balance each other beautifully—one rich and creamy, the other light and crisp. Furthermore, both appetizers come with complementary dipping sauces that enhance their flavors, making them ideal for sharing across the table.
Gyoza and Chicken Lettuce Wraps
Another starter combination that locals frequently recommend is the gyoza (also known as pot stickers) and chicken lettuce wraps. The gyoza at dragon pan myrtle beach can be ordered steamed, pan-fried, or deep-fried depending on your preference [3]. Each dumpling contains a savory mixture of ground meat and vegetables, sealed in a thin wrapper and cooked to perfection.
The chicken lettuce wraps, meanwhile, have become increasingly popular among health-conscious diners who still want bold flavors. Essentially, these wraps feature seasoned ground chicken with water chestnuts, mushrooms, and a savory sauce [4]. What makes this dish special is how it's served—with fresh lettuce leaves that serve as edible "cups" for the flavorful filling. This interactive eating experience is both fun and delicious, notably appealing to those looking for a lighter option that doesn't sacrifice taste.
Salt & Pepper Calamari: A Crispy Favorite
Perhaps the most celebrated appetizer among locals at china dragon myrtle beach sc is the Salt & Pepper Calamari. This dish features lightly battered calamari tossed with bell peppers, onion, salt, and ground white pepper [3]. The perfect preparation creates a remarkable contrast between the crispy coating and tender squid inside.
What sets Dragon Pan's version apart is the careful balance of seasonings. The calamari is first coated in a mixture that typically includes all-purpose flour, semolina flour, and cornmeal for that signature crunch [5]. After frying to golden perfection, it's quickly tossed in a hot wok with aromatic ingredients like garlic, ginger, and hot green peppers [5]. This final stir-fry step infuses the calamari with incredible flavor that keeps locals coming back time after time.
Prior to your next visit to Dragon Pan, remember that these appetizers frequently sell out during peak dinner hours—a testament to their popularity among those in the know. Accordingly, I recommend arriving early or requesting these items as soon as you're seated to ensure you don't miss out on these local favorites.
Sushi and Rolls That Locals Swear By
Sushi enthusiasts flock to Dragon Pan for some of the freshest, most meticulously prepared rolls and sashimi in Myrtle Beach. Unlike many places claiming authenticity, the sushi bar at this establishment delivers consistently excellent quality that keeps locals returning week after week.
Sushi Deluxe and Sashimi Regular
First-time visitors to dragon pan menu should start with their perfectly curated combination plates. The Sushi Deluxe stands out as a particular favorite, featuring 10 pieces of chef-selected nigiri and a spicy tuna roll, all for $24.95 [6]. This platter showcases the restaurant's commitment to freshness and presentation.
For those who prefer pure fish without rice, the Sashimi Regular presents an impressive array of 15 pieces of assorted sashimi priced at $22.95 [6]. Each slice exhibits the chef's precise knife skills, coupled with artistic plating that elevates the dining experience. Regular patrons often mention how the fish melts in your mouth – a testament to both quality and proper storage techniques.
Both options come served with traditional accompaniments including wasabi, pickled ginger, and house-made soy sauce. Moreover, these platters represent excellent value considering the quality and quantity provided compared to other sushi establishments in the area.
Dragon Pan Boat for Two
For special occasions or when dining with someone equally passionate about sushi, the Dragon Pan Boat for Two creates an unforgettable experience. This impressive presentation arrives at your table resembling a wooden boat laden with treasures from the sea. Priced at $59.95 [6], this showstopper includes the chef's selection of 12 pieces of nigiri, 15 pieces of sashimi, and 2 special rolls.
What makes this option particularly popular among locals is its versatility. The boat presentation allows you to sample a wide variety of fish and specialty rolls in one sitting. In contrast to ordering individual items, this sharing option typically saves around $15-20 while providing a more diverse tasting experience.
The sushi boat's construction is equally impressive – traditionally made from food-grade resin with a protective varnish that's both beautiful and practical [7]. Many regulars at china dragon myrtle beach specifically request the boat when celebrating birthdays or anniversaries.
The Carolina Forest Roll
Of course, no discussion of Dragon Pan's sushi menu would be complete without mentioning their signature Carolina Forest Roll. This locally-inspired creation has become synonymous with the restaurant itself, offering flavors that perfectly represent the fusion approach that dragon pan myrtle beach has become known for.
What sets this roll apart is how it balances traditional Japanese techniques with ingredients that appeal to local tastes. The menu at Dragon Pan is updated seasonally, incorporating fresh, local ingredients that ensure each dish tastes just right [8]. This commitment to freshness is particularly evident in their specialty rolls.
In addition to their signature rolls, many locals recommend trying the Dragon Roll, which features eel and cucumber topped with avocado, tobiko, and a drizzle of sweet eel sauce [9]. Yet another popular choice among regulars is the Dragon Fire Sushi Roll [10], known for its perfect balance of spice and flavor.
Throughout my numerous visits to dragon pan myrtle beach, I've found that their sushi chefs consistently maintain high standards regardless of how busy the restaurant gets. The fish is always properly cut, the rice perfectly seasoned, and the presentations thoughtfully executed – hallmarks of quality that have established this restaurant as a staple in the Carolina Forest dining scene.
Hibachi Combos That Keep People Coming Back
The hibachi experience at Dragon Pan creates a loyal following among Myrtle Beach residents who crave that signature blend of theater and taste. What distinguishes the hibachi offerings on the dragon pan menu is not just their flavor profiles but their generous portions and comprehensive meal structure.
Chicken & Shrimp Combo
The Chicken & Shrimp Combo stands as the most frequently ordered hibachi option, priced at $22.95 [6]. This popular pairing features tender chicken breast alongside succulent shrimp, both grilled to perfection. Unlike standard takeout, this complete meal includes soup, salad, vegetables, and steamed rice [6].
I've found that most locals appreciate how this combination offers the perfect balance—the subtle flavor of chicken complemented by the natural sweetness of shrimp. The proteins are typically seasoned with a proprietary blend before being cooked alongside zucchini, mushrooms, onions, and broccoli [11]. Diners at dragon pan myrtle beach consistently mention how the vegetables maintain their crispness without becoming soggy, a common pitfall at lesser establishments.
Dragon Pan Special Combo
For those celebrating special occasions or simply wanting to indulge, the Dragon Pan Special Combo represents the ultimate hibachi experience at $29.95 [6]. This premium trio combines filet mignon, chicken, and shrimp with the same assortment of hibachi vegetables found in other combinations.
What separates this signature offering from competitors throughout china dragon myrtle beach sc is the quality of the filet mignon. The beef is remarkably tender and cooked precisely to your preferred temperature. Many regulars tell me they justify the higher price point because the portion size is generous enough to provide leftovers for the following day.
Filet Mignon Hibachi
The Filet Mignon Hibachi, priced at $24.95 [6], has become increasingly popular among discerning diners who prefer focusing on a single premium protein. This option features tender cuts of beef alongside the standard vegetable medley.
At china dragon myrtle beach, the chefs apply a distinctive cooking technique that seals in juices while creating a perfect exterior caramelization. Consequently, even those who typically avoid red meat often make an exception for this particular dish. The filet is first seared at high temperature then allowed to rest before being sliced into bite-sized pieces, preserving its tenderness throughout the meal.
Across all hibachi options, guests can substitute fried rice for steamed rice, though veterans of the dragon pan menu typically stick with the steamed variety to better appreciate the proteins' natural flavors. Furthermore, each hibachi entrée arrives with the restaurant's signature dipping sauces that complement rather than overwhelm the carefully prepared ingredients.
Chinese and Thai Dishes Locals Recommend
While Dragon Pan excels with Japanese cuisine, it's often the traditional Chinese and Thai dishes that have Myrtle Beach residents coming back for more. These authentic creations balance familiar comfort food with carefully crafted flavors that stand out from typical takeout offerings.
General Tso's Chicken and Orange Beef
General Tso's Chicken consistently ranks among the most ordered dishes at china dragon myrtle beach sc, appearing frequently in customer reviews. This iconic dish features crispy chicken in a sweet-spicy sauce that strikes the perfect balance between tangy and savory notes. Unlike many restaurants that overly sweeten this classic, Dragon Pan's version stays true to the dish's Hunanese roots while incorporating just enough sweetness to appeal to American palates.
Orange Beef serves as the perfect companion to General Tso's, offering a similar crispy texture but with distinct citrus notes. At dragon pan myrtle beach, these two dishes often appear together at tables, as locals appreciate how the orange zest brightens the rich, savory profile of the beef. Both dishes come generously portioned and are typically served with steamed rice to soak up their flavorful sauces.
Pad Thai and Singapore Noodles
The Pad Thai at Dragon Pan has gained a significant following among locals who appreciate authentic Thai flavors. This classic noodle dish combines flat rice noodles, bean sprouts, egg, and your choice of protein—chicken, beef, or shrimp—all tossed in a traditional tamarind-based sauce. Undoubtedly what sets their version apart is the perfect balance of sweet, sour, and savory notes, alongside the fresh garnish of crushed peanuts, lime, and cilantro.
In spite of its name, Singapore Noodles actually originated in Cantonese restaurants rather than Singapore itself. Nevertheless, this curry-spiced rice noodle dish has become a staple on the dragon pan menu. Loaded with vegetables and your choice of protein, these stir-fried vermicelli noodles deliver a satisfying meal with distinctive curry flavor.
Honey Walnut Shrimp and Mongolian Lamb
Honey Walnut Shrimp stands as perhaps the most indulgent option on the traditional menu. This delectable creation features crispy tempura-battered shrimp tossed in a creamy, sweet sauce made with mayonnaise, honey, and condensed milk. Throughout my visits, I've noticed this dish increasingly ordered by locals who appreciate the contrast between the crunchy exterior and the velvety sauce.
Mongolian Lamb remains somewhat of a hidden gem on the dragon pan menu, yet those in the know consider it a must-try. This dish features tender slices of lamb stir-fried with green onions in a savory soy-based sauce that's both rich and complex. The dish delivers bold flavors without overwhelming spice, making it accessible even to those who typically avoid lamb.
Lunch Specials That Offer the Best Value
For budget-conscious diners, the lunch specials at Dragon Pan represent the ultimate sweet spot between quality and affordability. Indeed, savvy locals have long kept these weekday deals as their well-guarded secret.
Soup or Salad with Entrée
One hallmark of the dragon pan menu's lunch offerings is the inclusion of complimentary soup or salad with every entrée. All lunch specials are served Monday through Friday from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM and include white rice alongside your chosen main dish [6]. This comprehensive meal approach sets these specials apart from typical quick-service options elsewhere in Myrtle Beach.
I've found the Seafood Soup and Subgum Wonton Soup to be particularly impressive starters—both deliver robust flavor while remaining light enough not to overshadow your main course [12]. These soups contain a careful balance of ingredients that prime your palate for what follows.
Popular Lunch Combos
Among the most sought-after lunch options at china dragon myrtle beach sc are classics like Roast Pork or Chicken Chow Mein and Lo Mein—both priced at an astonishing USD 5.25 [12]. Initially, I was skeptical about portions at such competitive prices, yet Dragon Pan consistently delivers substantial servings that often provide leftovers.
Beyond these standards, the "Lunch Boat" represents another popular choice. Although portion sizes are modest compared to dinner offerings, the variety compensates for the smaller servings [13]. Each component is prepared with the same attention to detail found in their dinner menu.
Why Locals Love the Weekday Deals
The primary appeal of lunch at dragon pan myrtle beach extends beyond mere cost savings. First, the consistent quality makes these specials an exceptional value proposition. Subsequently, the quick preparation time—typically ready within 25-30 minutes for phone orders—makes them ideal for working professionals [14].
Furthermore, locals appreciate the takeout efficiency, despite the frequent lines indicating their popularity [14]. Several regular patrons visit "several times a month" precisely because the food quality remains "consistently great" even during busy lunch rushes [12]. Throughout my experiences, I've observed that ordering 30-45 minutes in advance is advisable given the restaurant's popularity [12].
Conclusion
Dragon Pan truly stands out as a culinary treasure in Myrtle Beach's dining scene. After exploring their extensive menu offerings, it's easy to see why locals return time after time. The restaurant successfully blends Chinese, Japanese, and Thai cuisines while maintaining authenticity and quality across all three traditions.
Throughout my countless visits, I've found that Dragon Pan excels particularly in delivering consistent excellence regardless of what you order. From the crispy Salt & Pepper Calamari to the meticulously prepared sushi boats, every dish reflects careful attention to detail. Additionally, their hibachi combinations offer that perfect balance of entertainment and flavor that's hard to find elsewhere in the area.
Perhaps most impressive is how Dragon Pan manages to maintain premium quality while still offering remarkable value, especially during their weekday lunch specials. Consequently, both tourists and residents alike can enjoy exceptional Asian cuisine without breaking the bank.
If you're visiting Myrtle Beach for the first time, Dragon Pan should definitely earn a spot on your dining itinerary. Alternatively, if you're a local who hasn't yet discovered this gem, consider this your invitation to experience what your neighbors have been raving about. Above all, remember to arrive hungry – those generous portions Dragon Pan is known for will certainly leave you satisfied and likely with tomorrow's lunch sorted as well!
FAQs
Q1. What are some must-try appetizers at Dragon Pan? Popular appetizers include Crab Rangoon, Spring Rolls, Gyoza, Chicken Lettuce Wraps, and Salt & Pepper Calamari. The Salt & Pepper Calamari is especially loved for its crispy texture and flavorful seasoning.
Q2. What sushi options do locals recommend at Dragon Pan? Locals often recommend the Sushi Deluxe platter, Sashimi Regular, and the impressive Dragon Pan Boat for Two. The Carolina Forest Roll is also a signature item that shouldn't be missed.
Q3. Which hibachi combinations are most popular at Dragon Pan? The Chicken & Shrimp Combo is a favorite, offering great value. For a more indulgent experience, the Dragon Pan Special Combo with filet mignon, chicken, and shrimp is highly recommended. The Filet Mignon Hibachi is also popular among those who prefer focusing on a single premium protein.
Q4. What Chinese and Thai dishes do locals swear by at Dragon Pan? Locals often recommend the General Tso's Chicken, Orange Beef, Pad Thai, and Singapore Noodles. The Honey Walnut Shrimp and Mongolian Lamb are also considered must-try dishes for their unique flavors.
Q5. Are there any good lunch deals at Dragon Pan? Yes, Dragon Pan offers excellent weekday lunch specials from 11 AM to 3 PM. These include complimentary soup or salad with every entrée, popular combos like Roast Pork or Chicken Chow Mein for just $5.25, and a "Lunch Boat" option. These deals offer great value and are loved by locals for their quality and quick preparation time.
References
[1] – https://www.yelp.com/biz/dragon-pan-myrtle-beach?start=5
[2] – https://order.dragonbrunswickoh.com/order/main/appetizers
[3] – https://www.pekingtokyoga.com/order/chinese-thai/soup/a10-salt-pepper-calamari
[4] – https://www.thekitchn.com/how-to-make-chicken-lettuce-wraps-cooking-lessons-from-the-kitchn-220124
[5] – https://thewoksoflife.com/salt-pepper-squid/
[6] – https://menushenu.com/dragon-pan-menu-myrtle-beach/
[7] – https://www.amazon.com/Serving-21-3Inch-Seafood-Japanese-Tableware/dp/B0BPR499ZN
[8] – https://dragonpan.menu-res.com/
[9] – https://www.sakurasushiandgrill.com/order/main-menu/menu/sashimi-deluxe-18-pieces
[10] – https://www.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Dragon+Pan&find_loc=Myrtle+Beach%2C+SC+29577
[11] – https://www.doordash.com/en/store/dragon-hibachi-cleveland-27547565?srsltid=AfmBOor00CMo6hMVMraAx-lBlbAW1tqftkGYLDsicSLjbH6NIHZKTOmJ
[12] – https://dragon-pan.menu-world.com/
[13] – https://m.yelp.com/search?find_desc=Lunch+Special+Chinese&find_loc=Blue+Bell%2C+PA
[14] – https://www.tripadvisor.com/Restaurant_Review-g54359-d7213901-Reviews-Dragon_Pan-Myrtle_Beach_South_Carolina.html