I like this location, the only consistent problem I find here is the parking. The lot is always crowed and is very cramped. Would love to know just how many fender benders they have there each week. Got to be at least a few. Service here is quick and accurate. I don't really need more. Guess that I am a Panera fan in general, as it has decent variety and is of above average quality.
(4)
Cherie O.
Don't bother having Dave the manager help you. I've never been a fan of Panera,,,overpriced choices of mediocre quality that leave you still feeling hungry. But if the My Panera rewards card is going to give me a free coffee, I'll take free. Beggars can't be choosers. However, don't accuse me of trying to use my sister's card that she had just used two seconds before me. We have different cards. Try swiping my card, seeing the offer and my name pop up before you spout off about us "using the same card". Panera may do a lot of community service, but they need to do some quality control on the inside.. And yes, the parking lot is the worst parking lot I've ever been in.
(1)
Padma A.
i had the fontega chicken and cream of tomato soup combo. My soup smelled weird. I stop @ Panera a lot to bring treats at work
(3)
Dave V.
The food is always good and i have never had an issue with it. Broccoli Cheddar bread bowl...uhh fuck yes! Little known secret though, the company they get their broccoli cheddar soup from is sold elsewhere for much cheaper and its exactly the same. The only thing i hate about this place is when i want to try something new, i always feel rushed by the cashier to get my order. i want to thoroughly read the menu, im not holding anyone up, im not even standing at the counter, CHILL THE FUCK OUT. Anyhow the few things i have tried here have always been delicous and fresh tasting. If you can spare the calories and cash (not crazy expensive but not a cheap place), get in there.
(3)
Seth M.
It's a Panera, a nice and clean location with good food and fast, friendly service. Yummy soups and sandwiches, regular or panini, with an apple chips or bread and of course fresh bakery items. Breads, cookies, pastries and more, baked fresh every day.
(4)
Rachel P.
This Panera has a good amount of seating inside. The servers could be friendlier.
(3)
Shira G.
I sent corporate an email about the 2nd experience I mention below., I NEVER HEARD BACK. So I will write a review. In general, I had been a fan of Panera in the past. But I have now had 2 experiences recently where I can no longer eat there. The first, there was a hair in my food. I didn't make a big stink about it and just showed the manager (I was eating in the restaurant). They refunded my money for the salad. Gross! The second, which is why I will no longer eat here... I ordered a my usual soup and sandwich. When I got home, I poured the dressing on the salad to find a BIG piece of meat in the container. This was a thumb size piece of meat. Should not have been missed when they put dressing in a container. The meat was now on my salad. As a strict vegan and kosher, I now had to throw out my salad. And I was so grossed out by this and questioned the quality of my sandwich at that point. So I lost my appetite and opted not to eat my sandwich either. While this is a personal disgust, it could have easily been something that could have been more of a danger to someone with an allergy issue. Apparently, Corporate didn't find my concerns important enough to even give me the courtesy of a response. bye bye Panera...
(2)
Kristen M.
wonderful soup! cant go wrong!
(5)
Cassie S.
I love Panera but that's not exactly the point here. I mean, it's a chain, you know what you're going to get. As far as Paneras go, though, this one is pretty good. Lots of seating, which is good because it can get really crowded at lunch. Wait for a table isn't too bad though - usually by the time your food is ready you've got somewhere to sit. Not enough parking but if you circle, you'll find a spot soon enough. Service is friendly without being overbearing. Only real complaint is that the menu is really far away from where the line is so if you don't already know what you're getting, well, bring binoculars!!
(4)
Jo N.
So I'm usually a huge fan of panera. However, today I tried their new pesto pasta (which tasted ok) but I was outraged with the price. Small (14 pieces, yes I counted) for 8.99$! R they crazy!
(3)
Yana M.
I generally love Panera. I'm a soup person, and their soups are excellent. But the experience I had at this Panera a while back is worth mentioning - it was so bad I considered boycotting the company for a while. I came in to the Panera one day around 3 pm or so - I had driven all the way from Skokie because I used to like this particular location - and it wasn't busy. I ordered my food, sat down, and had a pleasant lunch. Then, just as I was about to leave, I decided that I had a craving for a smoothie. So I walked back to the cashier - still no other customers in sight - and proceeded to ask a couple of questions about the smoothies and desserts. All of a sudden, the manager, who was conveniently hiding behind the barista somewhere, looms over his employee and proceeds to - I kid you not - YELL at me for wasting the employee's time while other people are waiting to order. I was speechless; I turned around to see who had crept up behind me, and there was nobody there! When I pointed this out, he only seemed to become more enraged and told me to leave. To this day, I have never received such bad customer service at any restaurant worldwide (and I'm from a country known for its nonexistent customer service). I don't care if he was having a bad day; there is absolutely no excuse for his behavior. Furthermore, when I attempted to contact Panera about this issue, I got an email response assuring me that they would address the issue with the manager (I want to say his name was Greg or Gary or something). I waited for weeks for the card they promised me, and it never appeared. In short, I've been afraid to go back to this location for fear of getting yelled at again. I'll go to the one in Skokie, thanks.
(1)
Jacob J.
Consistent Panera quality. Great sandwiches and service. The only thing I HATE.. is sooo many freaking kids!? I don't mean kids with their parents. I mean kids that are too lazy to eat at home, so they come to Panera! WTF! You're on friggin' vacation! eat later! I only have an hour for lunch.. and I'm waiting 25 minutes in a line out of the friggin' door. IF some of these kids saved some of that money for college.... If you work in the area... call ahead. DO NOT STOP IN on your own, especially around noon or 1pm. ITs so damn busy.
(4)
Richard B.
The Bannockburn location is so much better! Just up the road about 3 miles. I think we found this Panera on a bad night. Employee's seemed kinda pissed off about something? We were in around 8 pm and the restaurant seemed to be on a more 'shut down and get home' mode than taking care of customers. Coffee pots were basically cold and the folks were not so happy about a request to brew some fresh hot coffee. Bad vibe at this one.
(2)
Charles R.
Its alright. I like getting sandwiches and soup from here but there are some other places around town to get sandwiches. Recommendation: People who like soups and sandwiches and want to stop in for a quick lunch or to take something home. Nothing special though.
(3)
Kymberly S.
This Panera does it great like most locations. I have one complaint though, and maybe I've been spoiled, but I used to get soup in the morning on my way to work which I know is kind of odd. But since then I've noticed that most locations don't do this because their soup is not ready yet. So I wish they would start making their soup a little earlier so I don't have to wait until the lunch hour when it is packed!
(4)
Inna T.
When it comes to sandwiches, I prefer to make mine at home; but sometimes a busy mom needs a break--that's when Panera comes in. Here in the burbs, we don't have the good Jewish Deli's one finds in the city so we have to settle for fresh, clean and tasty -- and this Panera location is all three. This is the only kids-friendly, non-pizza takeout that isn't fried to a crisp, ala Mickey Ds. The sandwiches are very good and ample (my usual is the smoked ham and swiss on stone milled rye). I hear the salads are good too. My kids love the cheddar and broccoli soup in the sour dough bread bowl (there's something about getting to eat the bowl that's magical to a child). The service is always very efficient and they have free wi-fi for those of us who have an inner geek clawing to come out and play.
(5)
T K.
Panera is great when you want a healthy alternative to the normal fast food routine. This location delivers just as you would expect of a Panera. The one negative, as has already been mentioned, is that it is absolutely packed at lunch hour. You cannot find a table during the noon rush. Either get it to go or be prepared to stalk a group for their table. Seating is slightly better in the summer when they open the patio, but otherwise forget it.
(4)
Nicollette W.
This Panera is great! Nice and clean and the service is good. This is one of the better locations. Black bean soup is awesome!
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast, Brunch Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : No Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No
Elaine M.
I like this location, the only consistent problem I find here is the parking. The lot is always crowed and is very cramped. Would love to know just how many fender benders they have there each week. Got to be at least a few. Service here is quick and accurate. I don't really need more. Guess that I am a Panera fan in general, as it has decent variety and is of above average quality.
(4)Cherie O.
Don't bother having Dave the manager help you. I've never been a fan of Panera,,,overpriced choices of mediocre quality that leave you still feeling hungry. But if the My Panera rewards card is going to give me a free coffee, I'll take free. Beggars can't be choosers. However, don't accuse me of trying to use my sister's card that she had just used two seconds before me. We have different cards. Try swiping my card, seeing the offer and my name pop up before you spout off about us "using the same card". Panera may do a lot of community service, but they need to do some quality control on the inside.. And yes, the parking lot is the worst parking lot I've ever been in.
(1)Padma A.
i had the fontega chicken and cream of tomato soup combo. My soup smelled weird. I stop @ Panera a lot to bring treats at work
(3)Dave V.
The food is always good and i have never had an issue with it. Broccoli Cheddar bread bowl...uhh fuck yes! Little known secret though, the company they get their broccoli cheddar soup from is sold elsewhere for much cheaper and its exactly the same. The only thing i hate about this place is when i want to try something new, i always feel rushed by the cashier to get my order. i want to thoroughly read the menu, im not holding anyone up, im not even standing at the counter, CHILL THE FUCK OUT. Anyhow the few things i have tried here have always been delicous and fresh tasting. If you can spare the calories and cash (not crazy expensive but not a cheap place), get in there.
(3)Seth M.
It's a Panera, a nice and clean location with good food and fast, friendly service. Yummy soups and sandwiches, regular or panini, with an apple chips or bread and of course fresh bakery items. Breads, cookies, pastries and more, baked fresh every day.
(4)Rachel P.
This Panera has a good amount of seating inside. The servers could be friendlier.
(3)Shira G.
I sent corporate an email about the 2nd experience I mention below., I NEVER HEARD BACK. So I will write a review. In general, I had been a fan of Panera in the past. But I have now had 2 experiences recently where I can no longer eat there. The first, there was a hair in my food. I didn't make a big stink about it and just showed the manager (I was eating in the restaurant). They refunded my money for the salad. Gross! The second, which is why I will no longer eat here... I ordered a my usual soup and sandwich. When I got home, I poured the dressing on the salad to find a BIG piece of meat in the container. This was a thumb size piece of meat. Should not have been missed when they put dressing in a container. The meat was now on my salad. As a strict vegan and kosher, I now had to throw out my salad. And I was so grossed out by this and questioned the quality of my sandwich at that point. So I lost my appetite and opted not to eat my sandwich either. While this is a personal disgust, it could have easily been something that could have been more of a danger to someone with an allergy issue. Apparently, Corporate didn't find my concerns important enough to even give me the courtesy of a response. bye bye Panera...
(2)Kristen M.
wonderful soup! cant go wrong!
(5)Cassie S.
I love Panera but that's not exactly the point here. I mean, it's a chain, you know what you're going to get. As far as Paneras go, though, this one is pretty good. Lots of seating, which is good because it can get really crowded at lunch. Wait for a table isn't too bad though - usually by the time your food is ready you've got somewhere to sit. Not enough parking but if you circle, you'll find a spot soon enough. Service is friendly without being overbearing. Only real complaint is that the menu is really far away from where the line is so if you don't already know what you're getting, well, bring binoculars!!
(4)Jo N.
So I'm usually a huge fan of panera. However, today I tried their new pesto pasta (which tasted ok) but I was outraged with the price. Small (14 pieces, yes I counted) for 8.99$! R they crazy!
(3)Yana M.
I generally love Panera. I'm a soup person, and their soups are excellent. But the experience I had at this Panera a while back is worth mentioning - it was so bad I considered boycotting the company for a while. I came in to the Panera one day around 3 pm or so - I had driven all the way from Skokie because I used to like this particular location - and it wasn't busy. I ordered my food, sat down, and had a pleasant lunch. Then, just as I was about to leave, I decided that I had a craving for a smoothie. So I walked back to the cashier - still no other customers in sight - and proceeded to ask a couple of questions about the smoothies and desserts. All of a sudden, the manager, who was conveniently hiding behind the barista somewhere, looms over his employee and proceeds to - I kid you not - YELL at me for wasting the employee's time while other people are waiting to order. I was speechless; I turned around to see who had crept up behind me, and there was nobody there! When I pointed this out, he only seemed to become more enraged and told me to leave. To this day, I have never received such bad customer service at any restaurant worldwide (and I'm from a country known for its nonexistent customer service). I don't care if he was having a bad day; there is absolutely no excuse for his behavior. Furthermore, when I attempted to contact Panera about this issue, I got an email response assuring me that they would address the issue with the manager (I want to say his name was Greg or Gary or something). I waited for weeks for the card they promised me, and it never appeared. In short, I've been afraid to go back to this location for fear of getting yelled at again. I'll go to the one in Skokie, thanks.
(1)Jacob J.
Consistent Panera quality. Great sandwiches and service. The only thing I HATE.. is sooo many freaking kids!? I don't mean kids with their parents. I mean kids that are too lazy to eat at home, so they come to Panera! WTF! You're on friggin' vacation! eat later! I only have an hour for lunch.. and I'm waiting 25 minutes in a line out of the friggin' door. IF some of these kids saved some of that money for college.... If you work in the area... call ahead. DO NOT STOP IN on your own, especially around noon or 1pm. ITs so damn busy.
(4)Richard B.
The Bannockburn location is so much better! Just up the road about 3 miles. I think we found this Panera on a bad night. Employee's seemed kinda pissed off about something? We were in around 8 pm and the restaurant seemed to be on a more 'shut down and get home' mode than taking care of customers. Coffee pots were basically cold and the folks were not so happy about a request to brew some fresh hot coffee. Bad vibe at this one.
(2)Charles R.
Its alright. I like getting sandwiches and soup from here but there are some other places around town to get sandwiches. Recommendation: People who like soups and sandwiches and want to stop in for a quick lunch or to take something home. Nothing special though.
(3)Kymberly S.
This Panera does it great like most locations. I have one complaint though, and maybe I've been spoiled, but I used to get soup in the morning on my way to work which I know is kind of odd. But since then I've noticed that most locations don't do this because their soup is not ready yet. So I wish they would start making their soup a little earlier so I don't have to wait until the lunch hour when it is packed!
(4)Inna T.
When it comes to sandwiches, I prefer to make mine at home; but sometimes a busy mom needs a break--that's when Panera comes in. Here in the burbs, we don't have the good Jewish Deli's one finds in the city so we have to settle for fresh, clean and tasty -- and this Panera location is all three. This is the only kids-friendly, non-pizza takeout that isn't fried to a crisp, ala Mickey Ds. The sandwiches are very good and ample (my usual is the smoked ham and swiss on stone milled rye). I hear the salads are good too. My kids love the cheddar and broccoli soup in the sour dough bread bowl (there's something about getting to eat the bowl that's magical to a child). The service is always very efficient and they have free wi-fi for those of us who have an inner geek clawing to come out and play.
(5)T K.
Panera is great when you want a healthy alternative to the normal fast food routine. This location delivers just as you would expect of a Panera. The one negative, as has already been mentioned, is that it is absolutely packed at lunch hour. You cannot find a table during the noon rush. Either get it to go or be prepared to stalk a group for their table. Seating is slightly better in the summer when they open the patio, but otherwise forget it.
(4)Nicollette W.
This Panera is great! Nice and clean and the service is good. This is one of the better locations. Black bean soup is awesome!
(4)