I enjoy Panera but this was the worst one I had ever been to in the US. They were horribly slow and consistently had orders returning to the counter. I felt bad as there were folks waiting for over 15 minutes for a salad (including me) and the place was half empty. Maybe not a normal occurrence but this was a thumbs down for me.
(2)
Nancy C.
Normally not a huge fan of Panera, but not only was the cashier super nice but the to-go food was done quickly and tasted fresh. I got the Power Chicken Hummus Bowl, which I 100% recommend. It's probably one of the healthiest options on the menu and definitely the most delicious. It has spinach, chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and a cilantro-hummus vinaigrette. It comes with a packet of extra virgin olive oil and a piece of wheat bread (not the baguette you usually get). I did wish there was more of the dressing but the salad was good. The spinach was fresh and not wilted and the chicken was tender. I like that they included a healthier bread instead of the baguette. The cashier said this was his favorite salad when I asked what was in it, and I agree. If you're looking for something healthy and delicious (which can be hard to find around Atlanta), go to your local Panera & try this.
(4)
April D.
I am in medica sales and use Paneras across the southeast for catering almost every single week. I will NO longer use them due to the unprofessional catering manager in the northern Atlanta area, Wes Hendrix. Not only did I NOT receive a callback with assistance for a delivery order website mistake but he waited until the DAY OF my meeting to email me that he was too busy! It was IMPOSSIBLE to book anyone else this late and IF he would've called me back the day I called him I would've been able to find another company. Instead I had to PAY to get on an earlier standby flight so I could pick it up - which was out of my way - and deliver it MYSELF! Though the managers Heather/Lenny did what they could do NOT use them for catering!
(1)
Elissa N.
This is the best panera location! I've only been twice but each time it really made an impression on me! The SERVICE is amazing! The staff are so nice & accommodating and that really helps even with such a short experience. Food is great, as per usual.
(5)
EJ B.
Nice place - service a bit slow but so is GA
(4)
Angela J.
Excellent customer service...they politely greet you when you come in...very clean, from the tables to the restrooms...the food is awesome & has the variety that Starbucks is missing...lunch is very crowded but what Panera isn't packed during lunch hours!! Free WiFi which always has a great signal & plenty of tables & space for everyone!
(4)
Chris D.
I love Panera Bread, but had this place been my first impression of one, I never would have went to another one again. The problem with this place wasn't a bad one to have from a business stand point. The place was ridiculously busy, so busy that there was a waiting line to park, order, pick up food, and just sit down. I ended up finding an open table outside to eat at for lunch....it was 40F outside. I must say that the staff serving food were crazy efficient which is why I added an extra star. Otherwise I knock it down for being overly noisy, dirty, and for not being able to handle the lunchtime rush.
(2)
Nicole L.
Everyone has their opinion but I love the variety of healthy yet tasty foods Panera offers. Favorite Bagel is the Cinnamon Crunch with honey walnut cream cheese Favorite Sandwich is the Bacon Turkey Bravo with some Broccoli Cheddar soup I'll eat almost all the salads Favorite Pastry is tied the Carrot Cake & Scones This location is one of my favs just bc the customers are regulars as well as extra friendly. It gets busy but doesn't bother me. I'll definitely keep going back especially for the good free wifi, bagels and great patio area.
(4)
Sharie G.
This Panera bread has really gone downhill since Cole & Sam left. These managers were friendly, professional and kind to everyone and ran things correctly. Me and my mother Wanda went there today it was a terrible experience. Rude works, disrespectful, and nasty areas to eat at. I always went to this panera bread and was treated like family until Cole & Sam left. The new manager Quan I feel tries but he has to much to handle there by his self, and if the same owner still have this panera bread which I doubt they do because the folks I meet would never ever condone this happening. When my mother left this panera bread she was really stressed out and I left it was so bad and sit in the car. WHAT A MESS THIS PANERA BREAD IS IN. Can it ever come back to the way it was only if you can get a General manager in and help this place out.
(1)
Michael O.
Alexis was awesome. Took care of my online order in no time! Got there, place was clean, friendly staff, and fresh product! Looking forward to visiting this location more often! #ilovepanera!!
(5)
Eva S.
Pay attention to your bill because the employees will double charge you for bagel sandwiches. You should not have to pay an extra charge for a bagel when you have already payed for a BAGEL sandwich!
(1)
Caitlin L.
I use to frequent Panera a lot. Like, a whole lot. I'm vegetarian and always trying to eat healthy and would come here multiple times a week and get a black bean soup with a house salad. Ugh. The thought of that black bean soup makes me want to chunk it in my mouth. Too much of one thing over time always does that to me. I haven't visited a Panera location in a good while due to a limited selection of veggy stuff and just an overall limited selection of good stuff. You can only do a salad and sandwich so many times. Came here the other morning to grab something small and quick for breakfast. Went with the everything bagel and veggy cream cheese and a coffee. I ended up sending my bagel back for further toasting, which is very normal. A toasted bagel is not golden on the perimeter and white as me on the inside, it just doesn't cut it. So I can deal with the bagel thing. What I can't deal with, you ask? Purchasing a cup of coffee and enjoying my early morning, what I thought to be caffeinated beverage, only to later find out there was no caffeine in the coffee at all. IT WAS DECAF, FOOLS! It's just not funny or acceptable. And how do I know that the coffee was decaffeinated? As a daily coffee drinker who feels vibrant and alive after my 2 morning cups, myself as well as my boyfriend could barely stay awake after coming home and attempting to watch some TV. Get it together, Panera. There is no excuse for that!
(3)
Lindsey H.
Whatever you do, don't get picky with the order. Just do as they say.
(3)
Elaine B.
I've been going there several times a month since it opened all those years ago. Crowded, yes, but the staff does a good job of managing the service. I always get takeout, so I don't have to worry about the difficulty of finding a table. My biggest frustration is that for the past year or so it seems like they've always been out of my "regulars". I love the chicken and wild rice soup, but they've often run out by mid-afternoon. Or they don't have a certain type of focaccia for a sandwich. Or an empty bin for a favorite type of bagel. I understand that the high volume means that some things go faster than others, but it's really frustrating when this happens over and over... and on several occasions I've walked in, found out my favorites aren't available, and headed to ABC or Doc Green's instead. Pity, because I'd much rather be at Panera! Overall, though, it's a good location if you don't run into shortages like I do! It's your typical Panera, really. The soups are great, and I eagerly await the return of the Summer Corn Chowder. Though I'm not a fan of the new "healthier" (and grittier) icing, the orange scones can't be beat. And, as evidenced by the weekend and lunchtime crowds, it's a reliable place to pick up a sandwich and check your email.
(3)
Jessica Y.
What can I say, it's Panera Bread! The food at this location is the same as any other one, which is to say, warm and comforting. Free WiFi at this location is great, and while this one is very spacious, there is only one area with a power supply, so you'll have to shoot dirty looks at the people who got there before you. During nicer weather though, it's wonderful to sit out on their patio on a beautiful day. I've come here a variety of times- midweek lunch, early Sunday afternoons, late evenings, etc, and have never had to wait to find a place to sit, or even too long for my food. So long as Panera continues to serve their Broccoli Cheddar soup, and bake orange scones, I'll continue to eat here~
(5)
Russ G.
Insane. This place is right across from my neighborhood, and right next to Home Depot's corporate offices, so it is ALWAYS packed. No matter what time of day you cruise by the lot is full. They're making a grip of money here. Food is overpriced sadly, but it's really fresh and good so once in a while I can splurge and buy it. Lunchtime though I always get it to go, every seat is full and people are even standing in some places. Free wifi means people eat and then stay for hours, so if you want to get seated, get there early, or come at a weird hour when it's slightly less occupied.
(4)
Tanya B.
I know this is just "Panera" and it feels a little odd to write a review about a chain like this. But, I love it! I either go to Panera or order it in for my group for lunch. The salads are great and I also love the black beans. If I'm feeling really naughty, which, unfortunately is often, I order a strawberry cream scone. There's so much here to like... if you need a quick, simple meal that is also delicious, go to Panera. The only caution is that sometimes the portions can be so large... so if you are a calorie counter or watching your portions, you might want to "halve" your order. So order a sandwich, but save half of it for later. Your waistline will thank you.
(5)
Margarette N.
I like Panera Bread's food and it's a nice atmosphere to get some work done in, but management (the thing that would distinguish one Panera location from another) really seems to have taken this place downhill. Shift managers seem to be around less, and the staff is not as well trained. Ice machine and paper towel dispenser in the women's room frequently has issues. And they don't clear your plates like they used to.
(2)
Tiffany Y.
The thing I like about panera bread is how consistently bad they're bagels are becoming and the lackluster service. I also enjoy whoever trained all the workers in this fast casual food chain to toast bagels incorrectly. I've been avoiding the Panera located near me in Marietta, so on my way down to church in Douglasville I stopped at this location to run in for some quick bagels... Well I did notice that their bagels were big... like an inflatable tube you ride in, in swimming pools... So I was thinking one location has frisbees... this one has rafting tubes... Anyway the cashier greeted me and I placed my order for a plain bagel and an asiago bagel sliced and toasted.... I pay and step to the side to wait on my bagels. The cashier asks one of the other workers to grab my bagels, and she comes over to tell me they're out of asiago bagels. At 12:30 they're completely out of asiago bagels.... Sorry lunch goers...no asiago bagels for you... So as I watch the worker slice several jumbo plain bagels just to get my one, I say I need a refund for my asiago bagel (it needs to be communicated to the cashiers when they're out of something so they won't have to turn around to do a refund and waste a customers time). She says well you can have two plain bagels... they're the same price... And I say I just want 1 plain bagel... but I'm thinking.... do I look like an idiot those two bagels have never been the same price. She seemed perturbed that I did not want two plain bagels and asked for a refund.... So as I use to live and work in the Vinings area, businesses have definitely changed over the years including this panera. Meh bagels and kinda ok service... will not get my like to rise for panera bread any time soon....
I would not recommend the soba noodle soup. Better off going to a real authentic Japanese Restaurant where it's cheaper.
(1)
Crystal C.
I have been to this location dozens of times and have generally had decent experiences, nothing extraordinarily good or bad. But today, I ordered my regular iced chai tea latte and got something that tasted like mocha mixed with chai tea. It wasn't good, so I took it back and was asked to do a taste test before they made another one and the entire batch tasted like mocha/chai. Instead of them making a fresh chai tea batch, she puts it back in the fridge and tells me to pick something else... didn't offer a refund, didn't apologize. I just asked for a green tea and walked away... This is the only Panera in Smyrna, next time I'll go to Starbucks, even if they're drinks aren't as good.
(2)
Christy M.
I was very disappointed with my recent visit to this Panera location. The staff seemed disorganized when I arrived - there were several people moving around doing things but no one was talking orders. Finally someone noticed that a line had formed and came over. I ordered a bowl of soup to go. They have a decent variety, but I was taking it to a sick friend so I went with classic chicken noodle. Five dollars seemed a little steep but I figured the portion would be generous. It wasn't, though: the size was a bit smaller than a standard to go soup one night get from a "real" restaurant. I watched as the line cook placed the bag on the counter with the bowl of soup inside, then he reached into the bread basket and tore off a hunk of baguette, which he just tossed into the bag without any wrapping. Ugh. I carried the bag to my car and drove away, only to realize (thankfully before it had soaked into my upholstery) that he had put the bowl in the bag on its side and soup was leaking everywhere. Overall, very disappointing visit. I would have been better off going to the nearby Publix for a hot soup from the deli, which would have cost less, been just as tasty, and arrived intact.
(2)
Skim S.
Good: everything in here. Service is great most of the time. Bad: sometimes the cashiers act like they don't want to be there. Conclusion: definitely a repeater in a few days!!!
(5)
Cinde V.
Food is consistently good. Lunches are super busy so parking is hard. The reason for 3 stars is that the to go orders have DRAMATICALLY changed in quality and in portion. I'm not sure if it's just this location or all of them but the full salad looks like a 1/2 salad. If you are in the least bit hungry, eat there!
(3)
Bill K.
I stop in this Panera almost every time I'm in Atlanta. Yes, Smyrna has some good little places here and there, but I never bother to track them down. I prefer the consistency and the known quantities on the menu at Panera. Not to mention a small holding of Panera stock I've had for a while now. When I walk up to the register, I try to prepare the cashier for what's next by telling them my order might be a little complicated. I do this because at some point I realized some of the faster cashiers can get a little ahead of me and before I'm done explaining what I want they're ringing me out. Then they have to yell all my changes to the cooks because nothing's right on the ticket. I don't need that. I need them to know it might take a while to listen to all my changes to whatever I'm ordering. So keep your pants on, Speedy, this might take a while. We're going to hold the pecans, add bacon, hold the chipotle mayonaise, add an extra egg, take off the wonton strips, double chicken, make that with ham instead of bacon, whole grain bread on the side instead of baguette, extra cheese but I want sharp cheddar instead of swiss, put it on ciabatta instead of wheat, switch the ranch for the balsamic, you name it, and always, always always dressing on the side. Did I remember to say dressing on the side? (Of course I did - what I meant was, did you remember to type it in?) Getting through my order can be extremely demanding on their cash register button-pushing skills, not to mention their patience. I encourage them to focus, be in the moment, and warm up their button-pushing fingers first. If they're a trainee, they might want to call a manager. All Panera menus are the same, as is the decor. If followed to the letter, Panera's formula presents a tasty selection of fresh fast casual items, good sandwiches, salads, soups, coffee and tea, as well as plenty of choices in pastries and smoothies. All I ask for five stars is that each Panera I visit lives up to Panera's usual standards of cleanliness and service. This place certainly does.
(5)
Nina D.
I loved going here for breakfast, lunch, and lazy day dinners. It can get very crowded during lunch. The employees are very friendly, some in particular. :) I've only had a few messed up orders (minor things that were fixed), but the manager is really nice and apologized. Considering the number of times I've been here, this is a good Panera.
(4)
Holly C.
Great weekday dining spot close to the house. I usually order one of their many delicious soups and a sandwich/salad.
(3)
Michael B.
I've been coming to this Panera Bread location for close to 5 years now and have never really been disappointed by the service or food quality of it. The service has always been friendly and upbeat, always willing to help me decide on what I want to eat. The quality of food is good, as they use fresh ingredients in their sandwiches and their bagels are made fresh daily. Panera is a great place to come for a quick breakfast or lunch. Plus it is also good to get a little work done when you remote in to work from here.
(4)
Kevin W.
This is a good place to eat. They never run out of menu items and provide great service. Be sure to check your food before leaving. They have been known to screw up orders or forget items. The food and service is great.
(4)
Edie P.
I love Panera, but this particular location is seriously lacking in customer service. That's not to say that the cashiers aren't friendly and knowledgable, but that's really where it ends. Other locations give customers a number and bring food to the table. This location requires you to go and pick up your food when your name is called. It doesn't help that the guy behind the mic is so depressed it makes my meal taste bad! In addition other locations will ear your plates when they see you are finished. As I sit here and type this review my empty soup and salad dishes remain. As someone who worked in the QSR industry, take this tip - the customer experience is what will put you ahead of competitors. Adjust your labor so you can service your customers better. This will increase sales and you won't have to worry about that line item on your P&L!
(2)
Kim S.
The service has gone hill. It took 30 mins for me to get a salad to go. My dentist appointment took less time then getting lunch. If you have plenty of time to waste then go here for lunch. What a disaster.
(1)
Michael H.
Sad. Usually French onion soup comes with ample cheese and it's melted over the rim. Not at Panera. Granted, it's 8 bucks but still. Look at the pic I added. I ordered French onion soups, a Sierra turkey half sandwich with extra chipotle mayo and apple. I had to go up and ask for my extra mayo since there was hardly on my focaccia bread. No cheese on my soup, no extra mayo... Plus there were a ton if employees there and most just were standing around. There shouldn't have been 9 dirty tables. The man I ordered from spoke in a whisper and seemed annoyed to be at work, there was an overall sense of confusion among the staff that stems from poor management, and overall the store was untidy.
(1)
Steve B.
Very good. Kinda forgotten about location wise. There salads be banging. I shouldn't be putting salads on a pedestal but props are given when deserved. My thing, I like a late lunch/early dinner from here usually with a garden when I'm trying to be righteous with food consumption. But will do the chicken salad from time to time. A notch above ABC. They aren't really too stingy on the portions but not generous...somewhere in the middle. The staff/customers service is good, very efficient., on HEAVY CAFFEINE and alert. Couldn't really tell you about their breakfast selections but may have to check it out and put yall on through my POV. Location banging - right off death race (I mean 285). Grade: B
(4)
Sarah W.
I really like Panera Bread! Took off 1 star since the portions are small and it's pretty $$$ for what you get. I recommend the Broccoli Cheddar soup- it's so delicious I could eat it nearly every day. Don't go for the bread bowl- you end up getting more bread than soup and it's around $8. Their pastries are yummy too, and you can add a pastry for only $1 with your dinner (grab one for the next morning's breakfast!)
(4)
Robert U.
This is a pretty standard Panera. They do a lot of volume here, and are pretty good at cranking people through. They get a bit scattered at times and have screwed up my order a few times, so always check your food, especially if it's a "to go" order. They've always made it right.
(3)
Jill S.
I heart Panera's Soups & Salads. This particular location is close to the "place that pays the bills" so I visit it quite frequently. During weekday lunch times, it can be pretty busy, but the staff is very efficient with the orders. They are seldom incorrect and if you have your trusty myPanera Bread rewards card, it's easy for you to know when your order's up as they call out your name. Actually they do ask for your name upon ordering but if you have your card handy, you get that VIP feel when they say Ms. Jill, your order will be right up! Menu suggestions...Thai-Chopped Chicken Salad hands down!! Get the pick 2 with the black bean soup and you will not be disappointed! The serving size is just right and anyone counting WW points, without the wonton strips, your entire meal is 7pts (excluding your baguette or chips on the side)! See I told you, full meal. Now I can say I am not a fan of the sandwiches. There is just something about the bread that I don't like but the salads, soups, muffins, cookies, green tea and free WiFi keeps me coming back for more and more. Not to mention the discounts or freebies from having the myPanera Bread rewards card...don't sleep on free stuff!
(4)
Mr. Butters ..
I don't understand how people like this place. The bengals are pretty good, but the rest is very basic & just not good
(2)
SB M.
My family and I love this place. The staff is very friendly and outgoing. The food is always fresh and very tasty :)
(5)
Sarah G.
Sometimes, all you need is an asian chicken salad with some whole wheat bread on the side. This Panera is similar to every other in the sense that it's awesome. If you need a simple warm meal, this location in Smyrna is exactly what you need. Only problem? The location is unusual and difficult to get to.
(4)
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Address :3625 Spring Hill Parkway SE
Smyrna, GA, 30080
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast, Brunch Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : No Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Mark H.
I enjoy Panera but this was the worst one I had ever been to in the US. They were horribly slow and consistently had orders returning to the counter. I felt bad as there were folks waiting for over 15 minutes for a salad (including me) and the place was half empty. Maybe not a normal occurrence but this was a thumbs down for me.
(2)Nancy C.
Normally not a huge fan of Panera, but not only was the cashier super nice but the to-go food was done quickly and tasted fresh. I got the Power Chicken Hummus Bowl, which I 100% recommend. It's probably one of the healthiest options on the menu and definitely the most delicious. It has spinach, chicken, tomatoes, cucumbers, red onions and a cilantro-hummus vinaigrette. It comes with a packet of extra virgin olive oil and a piece of wheat bread (not the baguette you usually get). I did wish there was more of the dressing but the salad was good. The spinach was fresh and not wilted and the chicken was tender. I like that they included a healthier bread instead of the baguette. The cashier said this was his favorite salad when I asked what was in it, and I agree. If you're looking for something healthy and delicious (which can be hard to find around Atlanta), go to your local Panera & try this.
(4)April D.
I am in medica sales and use Paneras across the southeast for catering almost every single week. I will NO longer use them due to the unprofessional catering manager in the northern Atlanta area, Wes Hendrix. Not only did I NOT receive a callback with assistance for a delivery order website mistake but he waited until the DAY OF my meeting to email me that he was too busy! It was IMPOSSIBLE to book anyone else this late and IF he would've called me back the day I called him I would've been able to find another company. Instead I had to PAY to get on an earlier standby flight so I could pick it up - which was out of my way - and deliver it MYSELF! Though the managers Heather/Lenny did what they could do NOT use them for catering!
(1)Elissa N.
This is the best panera location! I've only been twice but each time it really made an impression on me! The SERVICE is amazing! The staff are so nice & accommodating and that really helps even with such a short experience. Food is great, as per usual.
(5)EJ B.
Nice place - service a bit slow but so is GA
(4)Angela J.
Excellent customer service...they politely greet you when you come in...very clean, from the tables to the restrooms...the food is awesome & has the variety that Starbucks is missing...lunch is very crowded but what Panera isn't packed during lunch hours!! Free WiFi which always has a great signal & plenty of tables & space for everyone!
(4)Chris D.
I love Panera Bread, but had this place been my first impression of one, I never would have went to another one again. The problem with this place wasn't a bad one to have from a business stand point. The place was ridiculously busy, so busy that there was a waiting line to park, order, pick up food, and just sit down. I ended up finding an open table outside to eat at for lunch....it was 40F outside. I must say that the staff serving food were crazy efficient which is why I added an extra star. Otherwise I knock it down for being overly noisy, dirty, and for not being able to handle the lunchtime rush.
(2)Nicole L.
Everyone has their opinion but I love the variety of healthy yet tasty foods Panera offers. Favorite Bagel is the Cinnamon Crunch with honey walnut cream cheese Favorite Sandwich is the Bacon Turkey Bravo with some Broccoli Cheddar soup I'll eat almost all the salads Favorite Pastry is tied the Carrot Cake & Scones This location is one of my favs just bc the customers are regulars as well as extra friendly. It gets busy but doesn't bother me. I'll definitely keep going back especially for the good free wifi, bagels and great patio area.
(4)Sharie G.
This Panera bread has really gone downhill since Cole & Sam left. These managers were friendly, professional and kind to everyone and ran things correctly. Me and my mother Wanda went there today it was a terrible experience. Rude works, disrespectful, and nasty areas to eat at. I always went to this panera bread and was treated like family until Cole & Sam left. The new manager Quan I feel tries but he has to much to handle there by his self, and if the same owner still have this panera bread which I doubt they do because the folks I meet would never ever condone this happening. When my mother left this panera bread she was really stressed out and I left it was so bad and sit in the car. WHAT A MESS THIS PANERA BREAD IS IN. Can it ever come back to the way it was only if you can get a General manager in and help this place out.
(1)Michael O.
Alexis was awesome. Took care of my online order in no time! Got there, place was clean, friendly staff, and fresh product! Looking forward to visiting this location more often! #ilovepanera!!
(5)Eva S.
Pay attention to your bill because the employees will double charge you for bagel sandwiches. You should not have to pay an extra charge for a bagel when you have already payed for a BAGEL sandwich!
(1)Caitlin L.
I use to frequent Panera a lot. Like, a whole lot. I'm vegetarian and always trying to eat healthy and would come here multiple times a week and get a black bean soup with a house salad. Ugh. The thought of that black bean soup makes me want to chunk it in my mouth. Too much of one thing over time always does that to me. I haven't visited a Panera location in a good while due to a limited selection of veggy stuff and just an overall limited selection of good stuff. You can only do a salad and sandwich so many times. Came here the other morning to grab something small and quick for breakfast. Went with the everything bagel and veggy cream cheese and a coffee. I ended up sending my bagel back for further toasting, which is very normal. A toasted bagel is not golden on the perimeter and white as me on the inside, it just doesn't cut it. So I can deal with the bagel thing. What I can't deal with, you ask? Purchasing a cup of coffee and enjoying my early morning, what I thought to be caffeinated beverage, only to later find out there was no caffeine in the coffee at all. IT WAS DECAF, FOOLS! It's just not funny or acceptable. And how do I know that the coffee was decaffeinated? As a daily coffee drinker who feels vibrant and alive after my 2 morning cups, myself as well as my boyfriend could barely stay awake after coming home and attempting to watch some TV. Get it together, Panera. There is no excuse for that!
(3)Lindsey H.
Whatever you do, don't get picky with the order. Just do as they say.
(3)Elaine B.
I've been going there several times a month since it opened all those years ago. Crowded, yes, but the staff does a good job of managing the service. I always get takeout, so I don't have to worry about the difficulty of finding a table. My biggest frustration is that for the past year or so it seems like they've always been out of my "regulars". I love the chicken and wild rice soup, but they've often run out by mid-afternoon. Or they don't have a certain type of focaccia for a sandwich. Or an empty bin for a favorite type of bagel. I understand that the high volume means that some things go faster than others, but it's really frustrating when this happens over and over... and on several occasions I've walked in, found out my favorites aren't available, and headed to ABC or Doc Green's instead. Pity, because I'd much rather be at Panera! Overall, though, it's a good location if you don't run into shortages like I do! It's your typical Panera, really. The soups are great, and I eagerly await the return of the Summer Corn Chowder. Though I'm not a fan of the new "healthier" (and grittier) icing, the orange scones can't be beat. And, as evidenced by the weekend and lunchtime crowds, it's a reliable place to pick up a sandwich and check your email.
(3)Jessica Y.
What can I say, it's Panera Bread! The food at this location is the same as any other one, which is to say, warm and comforting. Free WiFi at this location is great, and while this one is very spacious, there is only one area with a power supply, so you'll have to shoot dirty looks at the people who got there before you. During nicer weather though, it's wonderful to sit out on their patio on a beautiful day. I've come here a variety of times- midweek lunch, early Sunday afternoons, late evenings, etc, and have never had to wait to find a place to sit, or even too long for my food. So long as Panera continues to serve their Broccoli Cheddar soup, and bake orange scones, I'll continue to eat here~
(5)Russ G.
Insane. This place is right across from my neighborhood, and right next to Home Depot's corporate offices, so it is ALWAYS packed. No matter what time of day you cruise by the lot is full. They're making a grip of money here. Food is overpriced sadly, but it's really fresh and good so once in a while I can splurge and buy it. Lunchtime though I always get it to go, every seat is full and people are even standing in some places. Free wifi means people eat and then stay for hours, so if you want to get seated, get there early, or come at a weird hour when it's slightly less occupied.
(4)Tanya B.
I know this is just "Panera" and it feels a little odd to write a review about a chain like this. But, I love it! I either go to Panera or order it in for my group for lunch. The salads are great and I also love the black beans. If I'm feeling really naughty, which, unfortunately is often, I order a strawberry cream scone. There's so much here to like... if you need a quick, simple meal that is also delicious, go to Panera. The only caution is that sometimes the portions can be so large... so if you are a calorie counter or watching your portions, you might want to "halve" your order. So order a sandwich, but save half of it for later. Your waistline will thank you.
(5)Margarette N.
I like Panera Bread's food and it's a nice atmosphere to get some work done in, but management (the thing that would distinguish one Panera location from another) really seems to have taken this place downhill. Shift managers seem to be around less, and the staff is not as well trained. Ice machine and paper towel dispenser in the women's room frequently has issues. And they don't clear your plates like they used to.
(2)Tiffany Y.
The thing I like about panera bread is how consistently bad they're bagels are becoming and the lackluster service. I also enjoy whoever trained all the workers in this fast casual food chain to toast bagels incorrectly. I've been avoiding the Panera located near me in Marietta, so on my way down to church in Douglasville I stopped at this location to run in for some quick bagels... Well I did notice that their bagels were big... like an inflatable tube you ride in, in swimming pools... So I was thinking one location has frisbees... this one has rafting tubes... Anyway the cashier greeted me and I placed my order for a plain bagel and an asiago bagel sliced and toasted.... I pay and step to the side to wait on my bagels. The cashier asks one of the other workers to grab my bagels, and she comes over to tell me they're out of asiago bagels. At 12:30 they're completely out of asiago bagels.... Sorry lunch goers...no asiago bagels for you... So as I watch the worker slice several jumbo plain bagels just to get my one, I say I need a refund for my asiago bagel (it needs to be communicated to the cashiers when they're out of something so they won't have to turn around to do a refund and waste a customers time). She says well you can have two plain bagels... they're the same price... And I say I just want 1 plain bagel... but I'm thinking.... do I look like an idiot those two bagels have never been the same price. She seemed perturbed that I did not want two plain bagels and asked for a refund.... So as I use to live and work in the Vinings area, businesses have definitely changed over the years including this panera. Meh bagels and kinda ok service... will not get my like to rise for panera bread any time soon....
(2)Quiba Q.
Overpriced for the portion size. Panera please listen, why am I still hungry when I leave here? I have ordered veggie and meat sandwiches from here. The best Panera was in Pennsylvania and I will try to remember to update this review when I find it b/c they're not all 'stingy' with the food. Do not order the veggie/ tomato, feta, avocado, hummus sandwich from here. When you pay $12 plus for a meal don't we all expect to be fed? Why are the employees saving the 'best' options for themselves? When I ask for more hummus, which I shouldn't have to do for the price I am ready to f©€ someone up b/c I am soooo f©€N hungry. Really ... just annoyed here again.
(2)Nannette P.
I would not recommend the soba noodle soup. Better off going to a real authentic Japanese Restaurant where it's cheaper.
(1)Crystal C.
I have been to this location dozens of times and have generally had decent experiences, nothing extraordinarily good or bad. But today, I ordered my regular iced chai tea latte and got something that tasted like mocha mixed with chai tea. It wasn't good, so I took it back and was asked to do a taste test before they made another one and the entire batch tasted like mocha/chai. Instead of them making a fresh chai tea batch, she puts it back in the fridge and tells me to pick something else... didn't offer a refund, didn't apologize. I just asked for a green tea and walked away... This is the only Panera in Smyrna, next time I'll go to Starbucks, even if they're drinks aren't as good.
(2)Christy M.
I was very disappointed with my recent visit to this Panera location. The staff seemed disorganized when I arrived - there were several people moving around doing things but no one was talking orders. Finally someone noticed that a line had formed and came over. I ordered a bowl of soup to go. They have a decent variety, but I was taking it to a sick friend so I went with classic chicken noodle. Five dollars seemed a little steep but I figured the portion would be generous. It wasn't, though: the size was a bit smaller than a standard to go soup one night get from a "real" restaurant. I watched as the line cook placed the bag on the counter with the bowl of soup inside, then he reached into the bread basket and tore off a hunk of baguette, which he just tossed into the bag without any wrapping. Ugh. I carried the bag to my car and drove away, only to realize (thankfully before it had soaked into my upholstery) that he had put the bowl in the bag on its side and soup was leaking everywhere. Overall, very disappointing visit. I would have been better off going to the nearby Publix for a hot soup from the deli, which would have cost less, been just as tasty, and arrived intact.
(2)Skim S.
Good: everything in here. Service is great most of the time. Bad: sometimes the cashiers act like they don't want to be there. Conclusion: definitely a repeater in a few days!!!
(5)Cinde V.
Food is consistently good. Lunches are super busy so parking is hard. The reason for 3 stars is that the to go orders have DRAMATICALLY changed in quality and in portion. I'm not sure if it's just this location or all of them but the full salad looks like a 1/2 salad. If you are in the least bit hungry, eat there!
(3)Bill K.
I stop in this Panera almost every time I'm in Atlanta. Yes, Smyrna has some good little places here and there, but I never bother to track them down. I prefer the consistency and the known quantities on the menu at Panera. Not to mention a small holding of Panera stock I've had for a while now. When I walk up to the register, I try to prepare the cashier for what's next by telling them my order might be a little complicated. I do this because at some point I realized some of the faster cashiers can get a little ahead of me and before I'm done explaining what I want they're ringing me out. Then they have to yell all my changes to the cooks because nothing's right on the ticket. I don't need that. I need them to know it might take a while to listen to all my changes to whatever I'm ordering. So keep your pants on, Speedy, this might take a while. We're going to hold the pecans, add bacon, hold the chipotle mayonaise, add an extra egg, take off the wonton strips, double chicken, make that with ham instead of bacon, whole grain bread on the side instead of baguette, extra cheese but I want sharp cheddar instead of swiss, put it on ciabatta instead of wheat, switch the ranch for the balsamic, you name it, and always, always always dressing on the side. Did I remember to say dressing on the side? (Of course I did - what I meant was, did you remember to type it in?) Getting through my order can be extremely demanding on their cash register button-pushing skills, not to mention their patience. I encourage them to focus, be in the moment, and warm up their button-pushing fingers first. If they're a trainee, they might want to call a manager. All Panera menus are the same, as is the decor. If followed to the letter, Panera's formula presents a tasty selection of fresh fast casual items, good sandwiches, salads, soups, coffee and tea, as well as plenty of choices in pastries and smoothies. All I ask for five stars is that each Panera I visit lives up to Panera's usual standards of cleanliness and service. This place certainly does.
(5)Nina D.
I loved going here for breakfast, lunch, and lazy day dinners. It can get very crowded during lunch. The employees are very friendly, some in particular. :) I've only had a few messed up orders (minor things that were fixed), but the manager is really nice and apologized. Considering the number of times I've been here, this is a good Panera.
(4)Holly C.
Great weekday dining spot close to the house. I usually order one of their many delicious soups and a sandwich/salad.
(3)Michael B.
I've been coming to this Panera Bread location for close to 5 years now and have never really been disappointed by the service or food quality of it. The service has always been friendly and upbeat, always willing to help me decide on what I want to eat. The quality of food is good, as they use fresh ingredients in their sandwiches and their bagels are made fresh daily. Panera is a great place to come for a quick breakfast or lunch. Plus it is also good to get a little work done when you remote in to work from here.
(4)Kevin W.
This is a good place to eat. They never run out of menu items and provide great service. Be sure to check your food before leaving. They have been known to screw up orders or forget items. The food and service is great.
(4)Edie P.
I love Panera, but this particular location is seriously lacking in customer service. That's not to say that the cashiers aren't friendly and knowledgable, but that's really where it ends. Other locations give customers a number and bring food to the table. This location requires you to go and pick up your food when your name is called. It doesn't help that the guy behind the mic is so depressed it makes my meal taste bad! In addition other locations will ear your plates when they see you are finished. As I sit here and type this review my empty soup and salad dishes remain. As someone who worked in the QSR industry, take this tip - the customer experience is what will put you ahead of competitors. Adjust your labor so you can service your customers better. This will increase sales and you won't have to worry about that line item on your P&L!
(2)Kim S.
The service has gone hill. It took 30 mins for me to get a salad to go. My dentist appointment took less time then getting lunch. If you have plenty of time to waste then go here for lunch. What a disaster.
(1)Michael H.
Sad. Usually French onion soup comes with ample cheese and it's melted over the rim. Not at Panera. Granted, it's 8 bucks but still. Look at the pic I added. I ordered French onion soups, a Sierra turkey half sandwich with extra chipotle mayo and apple. I had to go up and ask for my extra mayo since there was hardly on my focaccia bread. No cheese on my soup, no extra mayo... Plus there were a ton if employees there and most just were standing around. There shouldn't have been 9 dirty tables. The man I ordered from spoke in a whisper and seemed annoyed to be at work, there was an overall sense of confusion among the staff that stems from poor management, and overall the store was untidy.
(1)Steve B.
Very good. Kinda forgotten about location wise. There salads be banging. I shouldn't be putting salads on a pedestal but props are given when deserved. My thing, I like a late lunch/early dinner from here usually with a garden when I'm trying to be righteous with food consumption. But will do the chicken salad from time to time. A notch above ABC. They aren't really too stingy on the portions but not generous...somewhere in the middle. The staff/customers service is good, very efficient., on HEAVY CAFFEINE and alert. Couldn't really tell you about their breakfast selections but may have to check it out and put yall on through my POV. Location banging - right off death race (I mean 285). Grade: B
(4)Sarah W.
I really like Panera Bread! Took off 1 star since the portions are small and it's pretty $$$ for what you get. I recommend the Broccoli Cheddar soup- it's so delicious I could eat it nearly every day. Don't go for the bread bowl- you end up getting more bread than soup and it's around $8. Their pastries are yummy too, and you can add a pastry for only $1 with your dinner (grab one for the next morning's breakfast!)
(4)Robert U.
This is a pretty standard Panera. They do a lot of volume here, and are pretty good at cranking people through. They get a bit scattered at times and have screwed up my order a few times, so always check your food, especially if it's a "to go" order. They've always made it right.
(3)Jill S.
I heart Panera's Soups & Salads. This particular location is close to the "place that pays the bills" so I visit it quite frequently. During weekday lunch times, it can be pretty busy, but the staff is very efficient with the orders. They are seldom incorrect and if you have your trusty myPanera Bread rewards card, it's easy for you to know when your order's up as they call out your name. Actually they do ask for your name upon ordering but if you have your card handy, you get that VIP feel when they say Ms. Jill, your order will be right up! Menu suggestions...Thai-Chopped Chicken Salad hands down!! Get the pick 2 with the black bean soup and you will not be disappointed! The serving size is just right and anyone counting WW points, without the wonton strips, your entire meal is 7pts (excluding your baguette or chips on the side)! See I told you, full meal. Now I can say I am not a fan of the sandwiches. There is just something about the bread that I don't like but the salads, soups, muffins, cookies, green tea and free WiFi keeps me coming back for more and more. Not to mention the discounts or freebies from having the myPanera Bread rewards card...don't sleep on free stuff!
(4)Mr. Butters ..
I don't understand how people like this place. The bengals are pretty good, but the rest is very basic & just not good
(2)SB M.
My family and I love this place. The staff is very friendly and outgoing. The food is always fresh and very tasty :)
(5)Sarah G.
Sometimes, all you need is an asian chicken salad with some whole wheat bread on the side. This Panera is similar to every other in the sense that it's awesome. If you need a simple warm meal, this location in Smyrna is exactly what you need. Only problem? The location is unusual and difficult to get to.
(4)