Pacman likes ‘Panda’

BARSTOW, California — Manny Pacquiao made a quick stop at a popular fast food joint specializing in American-Chinese fare on Sunday on the way back to Los Angeles.

Pacquiao, who battled Mario Barrios to a 12-round majority draw at the MGM Grand in Las Vegas, lined up just like everybody else.

And what did he order aside from white rice?

“This is my favorite,” Pacquiao said, pointing to the succulent beef broccoli.

“And this one,” he said, this time looking at the teriyaki chicken.

Currently, the eatery doesn’t offer pork on its menu and only serves beef, chicken and seafood.

Pacquiao was with his family and his huge entourage, composed mainly of friends from Los Angeles and the Philippines as well as his security detail.

Choi Garcia Ascue Ix, the eight-division legend’s aide, told DAILY TRIBUNE that the total bill amounted to $520.

Pacquiao was introduced to a similar fare during his early days in Los Angeles while he was housed at the Vagabond Inn in Hollywood just next to the Wild Card Boxing Club on Vine Street.

“There used to be a restaurant just like Panda Express on Vine Street,” said Pacquiao, whose choice was the beef recipe and grilled chicken that he ordered at Panda Express.

It is no longer around and in its place is a Mexican-themed restaurant using the same old building.

Reminded of those days, Pacquiao even remembered the dollar store that he used to go to.

“Giant Dollar,” he said smiling, remembering how it played a crucial role in his first fight with Juan Manuel Marquez in May 2004.

Pacquiao knocked down the Mexican thrice in the first round alone but could not finish him off and the fight ended on a three-way split draw.

The culprit? The cheap pair of socks that he bought for a dollar at the infamous store and wore during the fight.

“Got blisters all over,” he said laughing.

He then took his first bite of the beef broccoli and nodded.

It was indeed his favorite.