Panerabread Reviews

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59 Reviews

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10% users rated Poor
3% users rated Average
2% users rated Very Good
10% users rated Excellent
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L Lisa Miner
48 days ago

A Culinary Disappointment Turned Pocket Drainer at Panera Bread: A Lesson in Managing Expectations

Dear fellow food enthusiasts, let me share my recent experience at Panera Bread with you. Intrigued by the legendary steak and arugula sandwich, a dish now only whispered about in nostalgic tones, I ventured forth with hope in my heart. Alas, destiny had other plans for me, as the elusive item was no longer on the menu. Undeterred, I sought advice from the culinary guides behind the counter, who, in their wisdom, suggested a substitute. Little did I know that this substitution would test my taste buds and my wallet in equal measure. Picture, if you will, a paltry portion of roast beef nestled amidst thick, unyielding slices of white bread, almost lost in a sea of unadorned shredded lettuce. No savory dressing to elevate the flavors, no promised pickle oasis to cut through the monotony. And the price tag? A staggering $13.00, a figment of my worst nightmares materialized in a cash register receipt. In my quest for gastronomic satisfaction, I found disappointment served on a plate. But fear not, dear reader, for in this misstep lies a valuable lesson: manage thy expectations, lest ye be financially drained by the siren call of a lackluster sandwich. Let my tale be a cautionary one, a beacon of warning in the vast sea of culinary choices. May your meals be savory, your pickles plentiful, and your pockets unscathed.
R Renee
51 days ago

EXCEPTIONAL SERVICE FROM PANERA BREAD

As a busy full-time nurse working shift hours, finding convenient and healthy meal options is crucial for me. Panera Bread has been a consistent go-to for me long before the challenges of COVID emerged. Recently, I decided to try their online ordering for the first time, and I was impressed by the ease of ordering, payment process, and home delivery. However, a small mistake in my order left me feeling frustrated. I reached out to Marlo at the Selinsgrove, PA store, and her exceptional customer service turned my experience around. Despite my mix-up with the order, Marlo handled the situation with grace and efficiency, correcting the mistake while still making me feel valued as a customer. Her genuine willingness to help and positive attitude made a lasting impression on me. Having visited multiple Panera Bread locations, including Selinsgrove, Bloomsburg, Williamsport, and Lewisburg, I have consistently encountered friendly staff members who prioritize customer satisfaction. The level of care and respect shown by Panera Bread employees, especially towards frontline workers like myself, goes a long way in making us feel appreciated after strenuous shifts. I want to extend my gratitude to Marlo and all the hardworking employees at Panera Bread for their outstanding service. The seamless ordering process, timely delivery, and interactive tracking feature further enhanced my overall dining experience. It's evident that Panera Bread values its customers and strives to provide not only delicious food but also exceptional service. I urge Panera Bread to acknowledge and appreciate employees like Marlo, who truly make a difference in customers' lives. Thank you for consistently delivering on your promise of quality service and wholesome meals. Panera Bread has undoubtedly become a comforting and reliable choice for me during challenging times. Thank you for your dedication and care. - Renee Pfleegor
S Sheri Rape
59 days ago

NO SOUP for a $1 with entree FALSE ADVERTISING I’m doing that right now

My review for panerabread.com They have been advertising soup for a dollar with entrée recently. It is on their app offering code which is SOUP. Today I decided to enjoy that special. I placed an order on the app adding the code for two sandwiches & 2 soups at $7.99. each & the code only took 29 cents off. The staff after first stating that one had to place that order on the app to get the special, flipped when I explained and showed them my phone. They then insisted “oh, well, the special was over’even though again, I showed my phone and their app proving differently. I’m extremely disappointed that they didn’t make an effort to honor their own special. I actually really enjoy Panera. However, this ridiculousness & complete lack of honoring their own advertising is stunning. My friend and I were given the total run around & blatantly lied to. She actually suggested we call their IT department to address the concern. She was also rude & had a bad attitude.
V Viewlus
61 days ago

Above and Beyond Service at Panera Bread!

My experience with Panera Bread has been nothing short of exceptional. Despite finding the food to be subpar, the standout feature for me has been the unparalleled level of politeness exhibited by their staff. Yes, the abundance of marketing emails was overwhelming initially, but when I encountered login issues and was in a strange account limbo, their customer service truly shone. Receiving a personal phone call to address my login problem was unexpected and goes beyond what one would typically expect from a fast food establishment. It may seem like a lot of effort for a quick meal provider, but the gesture did not go unnoticed. Panera Bread's dedication to addressing customer concerns with such care and attention sets them apart in the industry. While the food may be basic, the service is anything but. Kudos to Panera Bread for showing that exceptional customer service can elevate even the simplest dining experience.
L lynn dorio
66 days ago

Finding Full Satisfaction at Panera Bread

I recently ordered from Panera Bread and decided to try out their hot bowl and salad bowl based on a previous customer’s feedback about portion sizes. I was hoping for a hearty meal that would fill me up, but unfortunately, I was left disappointed. The hot bowl I received contained only rice, dark chicken meat, and broccoli, barely filling half the bowl. The same issue persisted with the salad bowl – inadequate portion size despite the premium price. Despite the efficient delivery and decent food quality, the value for money was severely lacking. I couldn’t help but feel like I had overpaid for what essentially equated to half a meal. The $1 delivery fee seemed reasonable, but the additional $3.50 service fee felt unjustified given the portion sizes. In the end, I ended up spending $20 for what felt like half a bowl – a steep price to pay for a less-than-satisfying dining experience. While the convenience of delivery and the food quality were satisfactory, I believe that Panera Bread could enhance its offerings by ensuring that customers receive full and satisfying meals, especially considering the prices charged. Until improvements are made in portion sizes and pricing, I would recommend exploring other dining options for a more fulfilling experience.
L Laurie P.
71 days ago

A Heartfelt Bond with Panera Bread: A Customer’s Journey

Enthusiastically sharing my recent experience at Panera Bread, I had a bittersweet moment at the store on 38th and Lowell Blvd in Denver, Co. Despite arriving after closing time, the exceptional service I received from Aaryn transcended disappointment into gratitude. Eager to satiate my hunger, I embarked on an unusual drive-thru encounter where Aaryn, epitome of exceptional customer service, not only clarified the revised closing hours but also empathized with my situation, even acknowledging the comical detail of my 'one shoe' mishap. Such personalized attention and willingness to go beyond the norm left a lasting impact, reaffirming my loyalty to Panera Bread. With a heartfelt shoutout to Aaryn for his unwavering dedication and understanding, I extend my deepest appreciation for his kindness in a moment of need. The team at Panera Bread on 38th Ave in Denver exemplifies the pinnacle of customer service, setting a remarkable standard that resonates with patrons like myself. Their commitment to customer satisfaction and going the extra mile showcases a genuine care for each individual that walks through their doors. As a customer for life, my family and I are continuously drawn to Panera Bread not only for their delectable treats but, more importantly, for the exceptional service that creates a sense of belonging and camaraderie. Each visit is not just a transaction but a reminder of the strong bond forged through mutual respect and genuine care. Thank you, Panera Bread, for fostering a welcoming environment and thank you, Aaryn, for embodying the true essence of outstanding customer service. Your actions have left an indelible mark on my heart, solidifying my loyalty to a brand that values its customers above all else. Here's to many more heartwarming moments and treats shared at Panera Bread – a culinary haven intertwined with unforgettable experiences. Excited to continue this journey as a devoted customer, cherishing the unique rapport established with this remarkable team.
S sm
76 days ago

An Unforgettable Experience at Panera Bread Cincinnati

My recent visit to the Panera Bread located at Cincinnati - Eastgate N Dr, slightly west of Glen Este-Withamsville Rd Cafe# 204918, left a lasting impression on me. As I eagerly awaited my salad, I couldn't help but notice how remarkably cold it was, bordering on frozen. It seemed as though the greens had been either sprayed with refrigerating mist or even frozen before serving. Meanwhile, my friend opted for the broccoli soup, only to witness a concerning sight - water being added to the serving. The experience raised doubts about the overall quality and preparation standards at this branch. Despite spending $30 on our meals, the value for money was undeniably lacking, leaving us feeling unsatisfied. The culmination of these disappointing occurrences led me to bid farewell to Panera Bread, as I felt my dining expectations were not being met. Goodbye, Panera Bread.
E Elizabeth Houghton
77 days ago

A Love Letter to Panera: Rediscovering Joy Through Rewards

My experience with the Panera app was a game-changer, introducing me to a world of convenience and rewards. The moment I received the Rewards flyer with four enticing offers, I couldn't contain my excitement. However, what awaited me surpassed all expectations. Navigating the Panera website was like embarking on a culinary adventure - seamless, easy, and filled with delightful surprises at every turn. The user-friendly interface made redeeming my rewards a breeze, transforming each visit into a treasure trove of discounts and freebies. I can't help but feel grateful for stumbling upon this digital gem, rekindling my love for Panera in ways I never thought possible. Each visit now holds the promise of not just delicious meals but also the joy of unlocking new rewards, making every dining experience all the more fulfilling. In a world where convenience reigns supreme, Panera has truly raised the bar with its app and rewards program, proving that sometimes, the best things do come in digital packages.
T Thomas
78 days ago

Saying Farewell to Flavors: A Bittersweet Goodbye to Panera’s Cinnamon Rolls

As a loyal customer of Panera Bread, the gradual changes in their menu left me disheartened. The downsizing of portions and elimination of beloved items had me on the fence. However, today marked a turning point – the once glorious cinnamon roll, a favorite that never failed to delight my taste buds, now reduced to a mere shadow of its former self, a mere 1-inch high treat. This final alteration was the tipping point for me. Goodbye, Panera. Your cinnamon roll will be dearly missed.
D david stelter
80 days ago

Authenticity and Quality Every Time – A True Panera Enthusiast’s Perspective

As an avid Panera Bread customer, I have always appreciated the authenticity and quality that this establishment offers. From their flavorful soups to their tantalizing sandwiches, I have always found myself returning for more. However, my recent experience has left me feeling disheartened. On January 14th, 2024, I excitedly ventured to my local Panera Bread with the hope of indulging in their $1 soup with entree special, only to be informed that it was available exclusively through their online app. Despite this initial disappointment, I decided to proceed with ordering a half Southwest Chicken Sandwich, which was prominently displayed on the menu board for $5.29. To my surprise, I was charged $6.29 at the register, as the fine print stipulated that I needed to pair it with a soup or salad. To compound my dissatisfaction, the size of the half sandwich seemed to mirror the disappointment I felt, looking more like a quarter of a full sandwich. With the addition of a coffee, my total came to approximately $9.40, leaving me questioning the value of my purchase. While this experience has left me feeling disheartened, I remain hopeful that Panera Bread will revisit their approach to pricing and portioning, ensuring that every customer feels valued and satisfied with their visit. Panera Bread, I urge you to uphold the authenticity and quality that initially won my heart, and I eagerly await the opportunity to once again enjoy your offerings with the same enthusiasm and delight. Sincerely, A Dedicated Panera Enthusiast
J jeweleejhay
84 days ago

Exceeding Expectations: A Genuine Panera Bread Experience

I must disagree with the negative review because my experience with Panera Bread has always been exceptional. The team at my local store consistently goes above and beyond to accommodate my requests and create the perfect meal for me. From customizing my order to ensuring that it exceeds my expectations, I have always felt valued as a customer. The ingredients used in their food are of high quality, and every dish bursts with flavor. I appreciate the attention to detail and the effort put into creating a wholesome and delicious meal. The gift cards are an added bonus that allows me to enjoy their offerings regularly. In particular, I adore the sauces offered at Panera Bread. They complement the sandwiches perfectly and add a delightful twist to every bite. It's evident that a lot of thought and care go into the development of their menu. Overall, I highly recommend Panera Bread to anyone looking for a delightful dining experience. The dedication of the staff and the exceptional quality of the food make it a top choice for me. I am always looking forward to my next visit!
J jeweleejhay
84 days ago

Redefining Exceptional Service: A Heartfelt Testimonial

As a seasoned customer of panerabread.com, I was initially disheartened by my recent experience, which almost led me to give up on the brand entirely. However, every cloud has a silver lining, and I am pleased to say that my faith in Panera Bread has been restored. Upon my recent order totaling $70, I encountered several hiccups where my requests were declined, leading to a disappointing "NO" for every modification I sought. This left me feeling unheard and undervalued as a customer. Nevertheless, every brand has room for improvement, and I express these sentiments in hopes of fostering growth and enhancing customer satisfaction. Despite the initial setbacks, the culinary journey offered by Panera Bread remains a redeeming quality. While I found the food to be subpar, with perhaps the exception of redeeming gift cards for the occasional order, there is undeniable potential for greatness with some enhancements. I particularly commend the variety and innovation present in the menu, which, if coupled with exceptional customer service, could truly elevate the dining experience. Moreover, I must address the 'nasty' sauce incident that marred my sandwich. This not only impacted my taste buds but left a lasting impression that I found difficult to shake off. As the saying goes, the devil is in the details, and attention to even the smallest components can significantly impact overall satisfaction. In conclusion, while my experience may have teetered on the brink of disappointment, I firmly believe in second chances and the power of constructive feedback. It is my sincerest hope that Panera Bread embraces this opportunity for growth, thereby transforming "NO" into "YES" and elevating their service to exceed customer expectations. Let's turn this 'nasty' sauce mishap into a savory success story. Together, we can create a more harmonious and delightful dining experience for all.
A Alicia Arnold
89 days ago

A Surprisingly Disappointing Experience

My recent experience with panerabread.com left me utterly disappointed. Despite ordering the Mediterranean Bowl with Extra Chicken for pickup, I was taken aback by the overwhelming presence of wet ingredients and the noticeable absence of the extra chicken I had requested. As I eagerly opened the bowl at my workplace, I was appalled to find my meal drowning in hummus, tahini dressing, and Greek yogurt, rendering it completely inedible. Regrettably, I had no choice but to discard the entire order, unable to salvage it. The inconvenience and the distance to the store made it impractical for me to return the order, leaving me feeling disheartened about the entire experience. This particular incident has left me uncertain about placing future orders with this establishment, as it undeniably felt like a significant waste of both time and money.
A Alicia Arnold
89 days ago

A Culinary Catastrophe Turned Customer Experience

Sharing my recent experience with Panera Bread's Mediterranean Bowl has stirred a mix of emotions within me. Excited to dive into my customized creation of the Mediterranean Bowl with extra chicken, my anticipation quickly turned to disappointment as I unveiled the mishap that awaited inside the container. Upon lifting the lid, the sight that greeted me was far from appetizing - a pool of hummus, tahini dressing, and Greek yogurt inundated the bowl with no sign of the extra chicken I had paid for. Desperation settled in as I realized my lunch was rendered inedible by this oversight. Despite my initial shock and frustration, I chose not to return the order. The inconvenience, coupled with the time and distance involved, deterred me from seeking recourse at the store. Regrettably, I had to bid farewell to my hard-earned money and the promised satisfaction of a delicious meal. This experience has left me questioning whether I will return to Panera Bread for future orders. While this incident was a regrettable waste of both time and money, I remain hopeful that the establishment will address this lapse in quality control.
G Gm Phill
90 days ago

A Disappointing Experience in Gallatin, TN

I recently had a disappointing experience with Panera Bread in Gallatin, TN, and I feel compelled to share my review. I ordered a delivery from their website, hoping for a delicious meal. Unfortunately, things didn't go as planned. Instead of receiving the 2 Turkey Chili bowls and a bacon turkey sandwich that I ordered, I only got one bowl of soup and a cold mac and cheese. To make matters worse, the turkey and cheese sandwich was stale, and the turkey chili meat was spoiled. This was a far cry from the clean and healthy food that I used to enjoy from Panera. What's even more frustrating is that this disappointing order cost me $43.49. Needless to say, I won't be ordering from Panera Bread again.

Introduction

Panera Bread is a popular bakery-caf? fast-food chain in the United States that specializes in bread, bagels, pastries, soups, salads, paninis, and other baked goods. Panerabread.com is the official website of the chain, where customers can place online orders, customize their meals, check nutrition and allergen information, learn about catering options, buy gift cards, and join the rewards program. In this editorial review, we will evaluate the website from different perspectives and provide insights into its strengths, weaknesses, and overall value proposition.

Pros and Cons

Pros:
  • Extensive menu with diverse options for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
  • Online ordering with easy customization and payment options.
  • Digital rewards program with exclusive benefits and offers.
  • Informative and transparent nutrition and allergen data for all products.
  • Flexible catering packages for different group sizes and occasions.
Cons:
  • Relatively high prices compared to other fast-food chains.
  • Inconsistent quality and portion sizes across different locations.
  • Limited vegetarian and vegan options for some categories.
  • Slow and unreliable delivery service in some areas.
  • Inadequate customer service support and follow-up.

User Experience

Panerabread.com has a clean and modern design that is easy to navigate and use. The homepage features a slideshow of seasonal and promotional items, as well as links to various sections such as menu, ordering, catering, rewards, and gifts. The menu pages are well-organized and allow customers to filter and sort items by category, nutrition, and customization preferences. The ordering process is smooth and intuitive, with options to select pickup, delivery, or curbside service, as well as add-on items and special instructions. The catering section provides clear instructions and prices for group orders, with options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and desserts. The rewards program offers tiered benefits, such as free bakery items, complimentary drinks, and exclusive offers, that can be earned and redeemed through the website or mobile app. Overall, the user experience is positive, although some users may find the website slow or buggy at times.

Pricing and Value for Money

Panera Bread's pricing is generally higher than that of most fast-food chains, due to its focus on fresh, natural, and sustainable ingredients, as well as higher labor and overhead costs. However, the chain offers reasonable value for money, considering the quality and variety of its products, as well as the convenience and service it provides. Some items, such as bagels, pastries, and coffee, are relatively affordable and competitive with other breakfast options. Other items, such as sandwiches, salads, and soups, may be more expensive, but often come with sides, chips, or drinks included. Catering packages can save customers money and time, as they offer bulk discounts and pre-set menus for different group sizes and preferences. The rewards program also provides additional value, as it offers free items and exclusive deals that can offset the cost of regular purchases.

Alternatives

Panera Bread's main competitors in the bakery-caf? fast-food segment include Starbucks, Dunkin' Donuts, Au Bon Pain, and Corner Bakery. These chains offer similar products and services, but may have different strengths and weaknesses, depending on the location, menu, and pricing. Starbucks is known for its coffee drinks and cozy atmosphere, while Dunkin' Donuts focuses on its donuts and breakfast sandwiches. Au Bon Pain emphasizes its healthier and global-inspired options, while Corner Bakery offers more casual and local flavors. Each chain has its loyal customer base and appeal, depending on the needs and preferences of the customers.

Customer Service

Panera Bread's customer service has mixed reviews from customers, depending on the location and the issue. Some customers praise the friendly and helpful staff, who go out of their way to accommodate their requests and address their concerns. Others complain about the slow and unresponsive service, the lack of follow-up and accountability, and the inconsistent quality and portion sizes of the products. The website provides basic information and FAQs, but may not provide sufficient answers or solutions to more complex issues. Customers can contact the support team by phone, email, or chat, but may experience long waiting times or unresolved issues.

Product Quality and Selection

Panera Bread's product quality and selection are generally above average in the fast-food industry, due to its emphasis on natural and fresh ingredients, artisanal recipes, and seasonal specials. The chain offers a diverse range of items for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, as well as snacks, drinks, and desserts. Some of the most popular items on the menu include the You Pick Two meal, which allows customers to choose two half-portions of soups, salads, or sandwiches, the Mac & Cheese, which features a creamy and cheesy sauce, and the Cinnamon Crunch Bagel, which is a sweet and crunchy treat. The chain also offers some vegetarian, vegan, and gluten-free options, although these may be limited in some categories and may vary by location.

Website Usability

Panerabread.com is generally user-friendly and functional, although it may have some glitches or slow loading times. The website is responsive and compatible with different devices and browsers, and provides clear and concise information about products, services, and policies. The ordering process is straightforward and customizable, with options for delivery, pickup, curbside, and contactless payment. The rewards program is also easy to use and track, with a simple point system that converts to free bakery items or drinks. The website could benefit from more advanced features, such as a live chat support, a product comparison tool, or a nutrition calculator. It could also improve its search and sorting options, as they may not always display relevant or accurate results.

Returns and Exchanges

Panera Bread does not have a formal return or exchange policy for its bakery items, as they are perishable and non-refundable. However, the chain may consider refunding or replacing products that are damaged, spoiled, or incorrectly prepared, if the customer provides sufficient evidence and contacts the customer service team. Catering orders may have different cancellation or modification policies, depending on the time and date of the event, and the terms of the contract. Gift cards are non-refundable and cannot be redeemed for cash, but can be replaced if lost or stolen.

Promotions and Discounts

Panera Bread offers various promotions and discounts throughout the year, depending on the season, the occasion, and the location. Some of the most common deals include buy-one-get-one-free sandwiches, $1 coffee, free pastry with drink, and $5 off catering orders. The chain also has a digital rewards program, called MyPanera, that offers exclusive deals, free items, and birthday rewards to members who accumulate points through purchases and activities. The rewards program has different tiers, such as Member, Silver, Gold, and Platinum, that offer increasing benefits and privileges to loyal customers.

Reputation

Panera Bread has a generally positive reputation among its customers and the industry, although it has also faced some controversies and challenges. The chain is known for its commitment to using clean and sustainable ingredients, as well as for its social and community activism, such as fighting food waste and hunger. The chain has also been criticized for its high-calorie and sodium content in some items, its slow and unreliable delivery service, and its lack of transparency and consistency in some areas. The website has a good reputation in terms of functionality and security, as it uses encryption and authentication measures to protect users' data and privacy.

Payment Options

Panera Bread accepts various payment options for online and in-store purchases, including credit cards, debit cards, PayPal, Apple Pay, Google Pay, and MyPanera rewards. Customers can save their payment information for future orders, or use guest checkout for one-time purchases. Catering orders may require a deposit or preauthorization, depending on the size and nature of the event.

Loyalty Programs

Panera Bread's MyPanera rewards program is a digital loyalty program that offers exclusive benefits and rewards to members who sign up and accumulate points through purchases and activities. The program has several tiers, ranging from the basic Member level, which offers free bakery items, to the Platinum level, which offers special invitations, personalized assistance, and annual gifts. The rewards can be redeemed at participating Panera Bread locations or online, and can be tracked and managed through the website or mobile app.

Customer Reviews

Panera Bread's customer reviews are generally mixed, depending on the location, product, and service. Some customers praise the freshness and quality of the products, the friendly and efficient staff, and the convenience and flexibility of the ordering process. Others complain about the high prices, the slow and unreliable delivery service, the inconsistent quality and portion sizes of the products, and the lack of follow-up and communication from the customer service team. The reviews are available online and can provide valuable insights and feedback to the chain and other customers.

Community Involvement

Panera Bread is known for its social and community involvement, such as donating unsold bakery items to local charities and shelters, supporting hunger-relief programs, and advocating for food education and sustainability. The chain has also launched several initiatives and campaigns, such as the Panera Warmth program, which offers free hats, gloves, and scarfs to customers in need, and the Panera Challenge, which encourages customers to donate to charities and match their donations. The website provides information about these programs and how customers can support them.

Shipping and Costs

Panera Bread offers catering delivery and pickup services, which may have different rates and policies, depending on the location, distance, and size of the order. The delivery fees may range from $3.99 to $35, depending on the time and date of the event, the minimum order amount, and the type of service selected. The shipping costs for gift card purchases may also vary, depending on the amount and destination. The website provides clear and upfront information about these costs and policies, and allows customers to estimate them before placing their orders.