What Pick Up Stix Is

Pick Up Stix is a fast-casual Asian restaurant chain that serves noodle bowls, rice bowls, and Asian-inspired dishes. You order at the counter, choose your protein and sauce, and the kitchen prepares your meal while you wait — usually within five to ten minutes. The chain operates in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah, with locations in shopping centers and downtown areas.

Unlike a full-service restaurant, you don't sit down with a server. You order, pay, receive a number or your name, and pick up your food at the counter. Some locations have a small dining area; others are primarily takeout. The menu centers on customizable bowls where you pick a base (noodles or rice), protein, vegetables, and sauce.

Key Takeaways

  • Pick Up Stix lets you build your own bowl by choosing a base, protein, vegetables, and sauce from a menu board or counter display.
  • Most locations are counter-service only, meaning you order and pay upfront before your food is prepared.
  • Prices typically range from $8 to $14 per bowl, depending on protein choice and location.
  • The chain operates in four western states and does not currently offer nationwide delivery through major apps, though some locations may partner with local services.
  • Common proteins include chicken, beef, shrimp, tofu, and vegetarian options; sauces range from mild to spicy.

How to Order at Pick Up Stix

Walk up to the counter and look at the menu board or printed menu. You'll see sections for base (noodles or rice), protein, vegetables, and sauce. Tell the person taking your order what you want in each category, or point to the items on the board.

Most locations let you choose multiple vegetables at no extra charge. You can ask for extra sauce on the side, no sauce, or sauce mixed in. Once you've made your selections, you'll pay at the register. The staff will give you a number or write your name on a receipt, and you'll wait at the counter or in the dining area for your order to be called.

If you're unsure what to order, staff can suggest combinations. Many locations have a "signature bowl" or "chef's recommendation" that comes pre-set with popular choices — you can order it as-is or swap out ingredients.

Menu Options and Customization

Pick Up Stix menus vary slightly by location, but most offer similar categories. Bases include chow mein noodles, crispy chow mein, lo mein noodles, and white or brown rice. Proteins are usually chicken, beef, shrimp, pork, tofu, and a vegetarian option with just vegetables and tofu.

Sauces include teriyaki, kung pao, orange, garlic, soy ginger, and spicy varieties. You can request a sauce level — mild, medium, or hot — and most staff will honor that request. Vegetable choices typically include broccoli, snap peas, carrots, mushrooms, onions, and cabbage. You can ask for extra of any vegetable or request none at all.

Some locations offer appetizers like spring rolls, pot stickers, or fried rice as sides. Drinks and desserts vary by location. If you have allergies or dietary restrictions, tell the staff before they prepare your order — they can note it and take precautions, though the kitchen is not a separate allergen-free space.

Pricing and Payment Methods

A standard bowl at Pick Up Stix costs between $8 and $14, depending on your protein choice and location. Chicken and tofu are usually on the lower end; shrimp and beef are typically higher. Adding a side or drink will increase your total.

Most locations accept cash, credit cards, and debit cards. Some accept mobile payment apps like Apple Pay or Google Pay. A few locations may have a small upcharge for credit card payments, though this is uncommon. Ask at the register if you're unsure about payment methods.

Finding a Pick Up Stix Near You

Pick Up Stix has locations in California, Arizona, Nevada, and Utah. To find the nearest restaurant, visit the Pick Up Stix website and use their location finder, or search "Pick Up Stix near me" in Google Maps. The map will show hours, phone numbers, and sometimes customer reviews.

If you're traveling to a state where Pick Up Stix operates and want to know if there's a location in your area, the website's location page lists all open restaurants by state and city. Hours vary by location — some are open for lunch and dinner, while others may close earlier or open later.

Ordering for Delivery or Takeout

Most Pick Up Stix locations do not use major delivery apps like DoorDash or Uber Eats. Instead, you typically order in person at the counter or by phone. Call the location directly to place a takeout order, and they'll have it ready when you arrive.

Some locations in larger cities may partner with local delivery services or have their own delivery option — call ahead to ask. If you're ordering for a group, calling 30 minutes ahead gives the kitchen time to prepare multiple bowls without a long wait. Many locations can handle orders for 5 to 10 people, though very large orders may require advance notice.

What Makes Pick Up Stix Different from Other Asian Chains

Pick Up Stix focuses on noodle and rice bowls with a build-your-own model, similar to chains like Panda Express or Chipotle but with Asian flavors. Unlike Panda Express, which has set menu items, Pick Up Stix lets you customize nearly every element. The kitchen prepares food fresh to order rather than holding it under heat lamps.

The chain is smaller and regional, so it doesn't have the brand recognition of national chains. This means fewer locations but often a more local, community-focused feel. Prices are comparable to other fast-casual Asian restaurants in the same region.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I order Pick Up Stix online?

Most Pick Up Stix locations do not have online ordering. You order in person at the counter or by calling the restaurant directly. A few locations may have online ordering through their website — check the specific location's page to see if that option is available.

Are there vegetarian or vegan options?

Yes. You can order a bowl with tofu as your protein and choose any vegetables and sauce. Ask the staff to confirm that the sauce you want is vegetarian or vegan, as some sauces may contain animal products. Most locations can prepare a fully vegan bowl if you specify.

How long does it take to get my food?

Most orders are ready in five to ten minutes. During busy lunch or dinner hours, it may take longer — up to 15 or 20 minutes. If you call ahead, the kitchen can start preparing your order, and it may be ready when you arrive.

What if I don't like spicy food?

Tell the staff you want a mild sauce or no spice at all. Most sauces come in mild, medium, and hot versions. You can also ask for sauce on the side so you can control how much you add. The kitchen will prepare your bowl without spice if you request it.

Do Pick Up Stix locations have seating?

Some do, some don't. Larger locations in shopping centers often have a small dining area with a few tables. Smaller locations or those in tight spaces may be takeout only. Check the location's page or call ahead if seating matters to you.