MOBILE, Alabama – Another national restaurant chain will soon enter the Mobile market when Panda Express opens its first location on Airport Boulevard in early 2014.

Vallas Realty Inc. confirmed Tuesday the fast-causal eatery serving American Chinese cuisine has acquired the former Chantilly’s at 3811 Airport Blvd.

“Demolition will start soon for the new quick-serve restaurant with the opening expected to be in mid-March,” John P. Vallas Jr. said.

Rosemead, Calif.-based Panda Express operates 1,600 locations in 49 states, including restaurants in Huntsville, Madison and Auburn. Social media reports have also indicated in recent weeks the chain is planning at least one location in Tuscaloosa, but the company’s website does not currently list any pending Alabama locations.

That particular portion of Airport Boulevard has experienced tremendous activity in recent months, with both Dunkin' Donuts and Chipotle Mexican Grill signing leases in August to occupy two of three available spaces at the former Club Magnificent located at 3819 Airport Blvd. Both Chipotle and Dunkin' are slated to be open for business by the close of the first quarter 2014, and the latter has confirmed plans to open at least three other Mobile area locations within the same timeframe.