I've been here a few times without many negative experiences besides them never having asiago bagels an not knowing until you order, but the vast majority of the time the cashier is not smart enough to just give you a focaccia and that's o.k. But the experience I had at this place 2 days ago changed it all. I'll make a long story short: Guy behind the counter acted like he had only been working there for 2 days, so I'll excuse his very inconvenient ignorance... to EVERYTHING. When he got one of my orders wrong I asked the black guy that always works in the pastry line if I could get the right bread and he said, "Hang on, let me get a manager so you don't have to say it twice." Before I could even tell him that it wasn't that kind of situation he yells across the restaurant, "JESSICA! YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT!" Well, I didn't. I just wanted the right bread which the manager took care of. Before I left I told the guy it might behoove him to be a little more discreet next time and he began to get into a condescending debate about how having a complaint is nothing to be ashamed about. I'm a grown-ass man, not a child. And I will never be going back to this poorly operated establishment ever again. I recommend going down the street and finding something else to eat and not supporting this poor franchise.
(1)
Colleen B.
Take that Atkins...I'll have an egg and cheese on ciabatta bread! If you like bread, bread and more bread this is the place for you. Ooh the breakfast sandwich was so fresh. I also "heart" the turkey artichoke on focaccia. I really need to stop ordering it for like the 100th time. After checking their nutrition calculator I might. It's pretty high in sodium, but I don't eat it every day. I will give them props for a great website and the nutrition calculator is the bomb! I'm down with what other Yelpers have said that not all Panera's are alike and I agree. This location has the most friendly and reliable employees, compared with others that I've been to. I was really impressed on a recent visit with the way they treated their morning regulars....A+ on customer service. I dinged them a bit for parking cuz this location is really tough for that. Especially during the morning and lunch rush. Shhhh...don't tell anyone, but I parked in the Watertown Bank Only parking. I am a WSB customer though so I *could* have gone to the bank.
(3)
Jeremy K.
I don't understand how Panera Bread become so popular. I find them to be quite expensive and their food tastes weird. I can't figure out why it's weird but to me the taste of their salads, sandwiches and whatever else they serve (I've been there multiple times) just doesn't taste right. Maybe they accidentally pored some weird spice in the dish every time I've been there; I don't know. The only reason one would probably ever go there is to use Wifi... Service can be pretty slow during peak hours but also surprisingly when it's not so busy. I found the staff to be ignorant about their menu and options and a little rude as well. This is based on me going there about 4-5 times, not just once.
(2)
Eric L.
My stomach felt like it was mixing lukewarm acid.
(2)
Guest A.
Update 3-24-13: Since the above viist to the Watertown location of Panera, I was able to buy the hot cross buns twice at another Panera location. The first time I asked if the hot cross buns were sold at all location or just at specific ones. The employee said that all their items are sold at every single location and could not say why one location had no idea what the hot cross buns where.
(1)
Ariel G.
I have never had anything that I didn't like here. I have my definite favorites (like the asiago roast beef sandwich) but everything else has been tastey. There coffee and bakery stuff is good too. Also FREE Wi-Fi which I always like so I can mess around on my i touch. Near here? Hungery? Try it out.
(4)
Meghan A.
This review isn't just for Watertown, it's for Panera everywhere. I need to stop going there all together. I've never liked Panera, I never will like Panera. My dad and my brother absolutely love it, so they jump all over it whenever they get the chance. I think it's gross. I had only been there for lunch, but last Sunday I went for a bacon, egg and cheese and I could have thrown up. The cheese tasted totally processed, the egg did not look fresh, like they claimed, and they forgot my bacon. FAIL. How could you forget the bacon? That's the most important part! I have also tried their sandwiches, pastries and salads, and I am just not impressed. Anything I've ever had there does not taste fresh. Maybe I've just had bad luck, but I think it's pretty telling I've been to several Panera establishments and have never had a positive experience there. Fenway just opened up a new Panera, so I went there, and there were a good amount of people in there. Upon closer inspection, though, they were drinking and eating food from Dunkin' Donuts and just using Panera as a nice, warm place to eat. That's rude, but kind of hilarious. I've officially given up on Panera. It's not worth the time, the money, or the icky aftertaste.
(1)
Jim C.
I love Panera. They just always have such good baked goods and out of the ordinary sandwiches. And they always have free wireless so you can't beat that when you need wireless access in a pinch. Things to try: Asiago cheese bagel - super if you like asiago cheese Cinnamon crunch bagel - cinnamon roll meets bagel. So good if you feel like both Chocolate duet cookie - so good and perfectly chocolatey They also have this college aged girl who works the bakery section weekday evenings and she has a fantastic attitude. Bottom line: Two thumbs up for Panera. Only downside is that parking gets crowded on the street around there so you got to park in that parking structure every so often.
(4)
Robin G.
Love the sandwiches as always but the parking is a joke.
(3)
Jill H.
If nothing else, for what it lacks in decor, this Panera makes up points for convenience. I've pretty much made this place my second office, as it offers free wi-fi and ample parking. I wrote my senior thesis here and got an A so I like to give this Panera a little credit for that too. Other points worth mention... the bottomless coffee is actually quite good, and the food really isn't any different than any other Panera. I like the Greek Salad and French Onion Soup (although, if you're a FOS fan, this one is definitely a different take on the idea). While it tends to get crowded at lunch and other high-traffic times, I don't think I've ever had trouble finding a place to sit - which is what puts it above the Panera in Coolidge Corner. Overall, if you have a car, and are trying to get away to finish up that last weekly progress report, it's a good spot.
(3)
Rachael K.
I don't think I've been here a single time where nothing went wrong. They are always out of baguettes and they don't tell you or they screw up your sandwich and for some reason can't make another or they decide not to give you a side and you don't discover until you're halfway home. I'm generally a fan of Panera but not this location. Not when my sandwich is soggy and cold after the 5 minute drive home. If you want a sandwich go to Quizons.
(1)
A D.
FINE! Fine. I was picking up lunch for a couple coworkers today and I gave you a second chance. I'm all about second chances. Your tomato-mozz panini bumped you up to two stars. Mostly because there was accidentally a piece of super-crispy bacon in the wrapper. P.S. PLeeease stop hiring sleazy workers.
(2)
Melanie D.
Honestly, I don't understand all the Panera passion. This was the first one I'd ever gone to, and it's really turned me off the entire chain. People rave about the bread-- I ordered a sandwich, but it didn't come on sun-dried tomato bread, it came on weird orange sponge that tasted like chemicals. Wonder Bread is real bread compared to this crap. The salad dressings are all sweet. Clearly, cheese has gotten so expensive that they're substituting tasteless plastic strands on the asiago bagel, which doesn't taste as spongelike, but still like DuPont. Service was ok, largely indifferent, although the manager seemed gracious. Look out for the creepy ogler guy who hangs out there in the mornings. He's the one that walks by your table several times really closely and looks at you the whole time. If I was over at the coffee station, he would make six trips to put a sugar in each time. If I sat in the back, he would go to the bathroom six times. Obviously, the coffee doesn't agree with him. My best friend works nearby, so by default, I ended up giving it a few shots. I even used that web survey link on all my receipts to tell them how much they suck, thinking it would be poetic justice if I won the $100 gift card drawing. Which I didn't. I was going to CL it and make back the money i spent there. Bastards.
(2)
Vanilla P.
Wow, this Panera sucks. The layout is great, with a very distinct bakery area and a cafe area, yet the powers that be at Panera choose to only open the bakery registers... Even during lunch rush. I don't understand. Employees stood behind the registers of the cafe area, staring blankly at the wall behind me, until I asked, "Is this where I order?" A little more drooling later, "No, at the bakery." Okay. So I go to the bakery, only to have the register bum rushed by the bitch mother (B.M.) who was standing behind me at the cafe registers. Fine, I get it: You're important. YOU go first. So, there's only one employee in the bakery, and B.M. orders a decaf espresso drink. Employee goes to make it and discovers they don't have any decaf espresso. B.M. takes her sweet assed time trying to decide what she wants, and employee just stands there. Staring. Staring. Staring.... Until I finally get to order. Tomato soup + Asiago bagel + Lemonade. No sides. My soup was hot and ready by the time I sat down, my bagel was cheesy, and my lemonade lemony. I had a whole table to myself, but the next table had some Panera employees sitting there, hollering at the kitchen like hoodlums, and running back and forth from eating and helping themselves to bread, cheese, and extra vegetables from the kitchen. Can someone say, "Health department" ?
(1)
Jay S.
I enjoy healthy food! I really enjoy tasty healthy food! The Thai chicken salad is the greatest salad ever (if you don't like cheese on everything).
(3)
Ryan S.
1. It's a Panera. 2. The staff at the front are usually total douchelords, I've had the same 3 people several times over the past year and not once a smile or cordiality. 3. Ray the guy who works in the back is awesome and offered to help me carry my catering order to my car once, that was clutch. 4. They're a little lame on catering, forget side stuff or leave the lid loose on the coffee box and it leaks all over you car. 5. Parking is a pain during work hours. 6. There's like a mafia of old folks that hog the tables in the front and chill there every day drinking coffee for like four hours.
(3)
Jen H.
Panera just like any other Panera. I came here to get some food between work (in Cambridge) and going to someone's house (in Waltham) -- and I wanted to eat and use my computer... the free WiFi plus knowing I could get a cup of broccoli 'n cheese soup, and 1/2 a Sierra Turkey Sandwich sealed the deal for my destination. Nothing special about this place, it's in a weird building, but plus is that there is a 6 story garage a hop, skip, and a jump away that is FREE so not like other parking garages you have to pay for.... :-D My service was really fast. Went in, ordered, went to bathroom to wash hands, came out, food was ready. Bonus points for not making me wait.
(3)
Jess K.
I really love the food at Panera. So many options, especially with the You Pick Two. There are always a few combos of soups, sandwiches, and salads that I enjoy. I do agree with other reviewers that the service can be hit-or-miss. I go a lot, and my advice is to always check your order before walking away from the counter. Make sure you got your side, croutons, or whatever fix-ins so that you can avoid disappointment. They also have a tough time customizing dishes, like sometimes they say they will leave gouda off my salad and then it is there anyway. And to customize a panini, they once told me it would be a 30 minute wait! I would say the food makes it worth the risk of shoddy service. The bread really is just sooo good. They also have both sweet and savory bagels and cream cheeses. The French Toast bagel with Hazelnut cream cheese is really awesome!! Even though the service can be frustrating, some of the workers really try to do a great job. I always fill out the customer surveys that print out on the receipt so they know who to keep around.
(3)
Adam Z.
Their food stinks, the prices are a tad over the top for what they serve. I really don't get how this chain stays open let alone how people pay for the food here. Little known fact about this particular Panera 96% of the employee either A. Are working there illegally (no greencard), or B. Are ex-convincts and current druggies. 100% fact. I'm giving this 1 star for 3 reasons, 1 The decor/atmosphere, 2 Free Wi-Fi, 3 One of the male cashiers actually does his job and is a great person.
(1)
Erik O.
its a panera, you know what your getting. no surprises either way.
(4)
Megan C.
I had nothing but good experience with this Panera. Although their food is expensive for a pick-up lunch place, it's tasty and I love that you get your choice of side. There is pretty high turnover, so make sure you get what you order!
(4)
David H.
The one star above is for the wifi access, which is free. Everything else is completely lousy. This location is one of the only lunch places within walking distance of the Arsenal Complex so they know they have a captive audience and can provide an inferior product without losing customers. First off, why do all of the sandwiches taste exactly the same? Regardless of the meat I choose I'm always getting the same flavor. I would describe the taste as..."chicken-bacon." Seriously, what is that flavor and where is coming from? Is it baked into the bread? Even the mozzarella and tomato sandwich tastes like it. Secondly, they screw up more of my orders than they get right. I once walked back to my office with a mozzarella and tomato salad in a brown bag only to discover that they had forgotten the mozzarella! All they gave me was lettuce, tomato, and soggy pieces of bread that I guess were intended as croutons. So after paying like 7.95 or something for this "dish" I had to throw it away. Oy! Thirdly, way too crowded! Other than myself, who are all these preppy schmucks?
(1)
Sara P.
Okay First off, I understand that Panera is in someway associated with McDonald's. However, I really enjoy their Thai Chicken Salad. It's delicious and I crave it often. This location is really busy around lunch time, so call in your order ahead. If you're looking for a place to study. This location is good for studying sometimes. This Review is mostly written for people who are looking for a place to study that is not Starbucks. The Good: 1. Thai Chicken Salad and Frontega Chicken Sandwich. (The food taste better than fast food but it also is a little more expensive). 2. There is a guy who works there who will randomly break out in song and has a wicked nice smile (I've developed a crush, but he's really friendly. I don't really try in interact with the other people so I'm not sure if they're nice or not). 3. If you don't going during lunch rush its generally pretty quiet and they're usually good about getting your order right (although don't order from the old lady if you can help it she's misheard me twice now). But they've remade my order both times no problem. The Bad: 1. The internet is kind of wonky. (This can be good or bad depending how you look at it). 2. There are not very many outlets. (If you do want an outlet they're located towards the front of the cafe). 3. I don't really have a three It's a chain so if you've got something against chains I suppose that's a bad thing. Overall, it's a chain the service and quality is basically fast food-esque. However the employees at this location don't seem overly disgruntled. It's generally nice, the food is tasty although kind of pricey for sandwiches and salads. The street parking is challenging because of the location but you can usually find a spot in the garage.
(3)
Lauren V.
I love Panera. Even though the sandwiches and soups are overwhelmingly unhealthy and fatty for the most part, I find them tasty and I am a fan of the You Pick Two special, where you can pick a combination of two from half a sandwich, soup or a salad. I used to love the lemonade but it has gone downhill. But as long as they have those Asiago Cheese bagels, I will keep coming back. I have to give this particular Panera three stars though. Other reviewers are right in that the setup leaves much to be desired. The hall-like interior gets crowded when there is a line of people behind the counter. Which wouldn't be so bad if there wasn't almost always a line. Inevitably there is only one register open and the cashier is sloooower...than....death. I appreciate the jovial attitude and the sociable attitude really, but I don't need your life story when there are 15 people also queued up glowering at me because its my fault you won't shut up. Also, the place is so packed it is often difficult finding a spot to eat. If you came here for lunch, chances are you will spend the majority of your lunch hour waiting for your order. I am not sure when this place isn't busy...if ever.
(3)
Aaron W.
I couldn't believe how mobbed this place was. Yeah, their salads are pretty good, but the Tuna Sandwich I ordered was straight-up awful. Um, can I have some tuna with my mayo? It was practically a mayo sandwich. Also think they need to switch brands of potato chips; Don't go for those kettle ones. (At least provide another option.) For what it's worth, the line moved pretty fast and the service was good.
(2)
Jeffrey H.
Don't really know how you can mess up a Panera, but congratulations to the folks in Watertown, you've done it! What turned out to be just a quick grab of a 1/2 Bacon Turkey Bravo actually turned into the inspiration to yelp this place. Everyone knows Panera, and I would normally find little need to review it. But with this particular location, it is deserving of a warning to people who have the ability to travel to the next Panera when in need of some broccoli cheddar. Well, first of all, most RANDOM McRANDOM building ever. You look like you're walking into an abandoned warehouse/murder movie. Whatever, no big deal. But the actual setup of the restaurant inside is just plain awkward. The tables are arranged in a Picasso sort of way where you feel like one wrong step and you'll be gored by a stool. It's long and narrow, which I would assume would make crowded lunch hours QUITE annoying. But I went mid-afternoon when it was quiet....which brings me to my next point. There were probably 10 people in the restaurant. 5 of them being employees, 3 of them being myself and friends, and then a couple more already seated eating their food and sippin their drinks. How is it possible it took about 10 minutes to be served? We were definitely spotted as about 1/2 the staff either walked by us and stared or actually even said 'hi' to us. But, there was never a "we'll be right with you" or "hold onna sec while I finishing texting my acne infested boyfriend." Finally we got served and we got our meals. Absolutely nothing wrong with the food, it's your average Panera. But dear lord, the service and the atmosphere, well gag me with a spoon.
(2)
Brandon M.
I work in the same complex and honestly, I'd kinda rather poke my eye out with a spork than do the lunchtime shuffle for a bad sandwich and a greasy bag of chips. Seriously, from 11:30 to 2:00 this place is a mad house. Placing your order involves an excruciatingly slow line and waiting for my order is a claustorphobic's nightmare. On the plus side...they rarely screw up the Frontega Chicken sandwich...anything else though...you've been warned.
(2)
Jenna C.
This is the worst Panera I have ever been to. First of all the set up is so weird. The sandwich/salad/soup section is at one end and the bakery at the other with one narrow, awkward walkway between them. I was standing in line to order and 3 people walked by before one of them (I think a manager) told me that I should just go order at the bakery because he didn't know where the other employees were. Nice. I finally ordered and my food was ready within minutes. I was satisfied with the food but they seriously need to work on their customer service or maybe just their employee awareness.
(2)
Margeaux A.
Love this Panera! It's in a convenient location, has free Wi-Fi, and great food! I can't speak to the variety because I always get the same thing (Italian combo, love it!), but it always tastes delicious. It will depend on what time you go whether or not you're able to get a table because the seats by the outlets will fill up fast during their busiest times. The service is always quick and the staff are friendly and helpful. The place is clean as well. I'm particularly pleased with this Panera Bread because I was there around closing time and they gave us free food that they had left over! Can't argue with that!
(5)
Rob D.
I went out of my way today to Yelp today in order to malign Panera in Watertown. I have no idea where most of the other reviewers have gone but this place is second to none - and I don't mean that in a good way. I worked next to this place for 2 years, so it was a sandwich place of convenience, not choice. I'm not going to talk about the food - which is banal at best - but rather the counter help. Oh, they are pleasant enough people, but seem completely, utterly, frighteningly, alarmingly and bizarrely unaware that 95% of their clientle need to get to work. They gossip, they talk, they stare blankly straight ahead. When workers are frantically trying to grab coffee and a roll to get to work they...take a bagel order....think about it...punch it into the register...walk away from the register....find the bagel after having a conversation with one of their buddies about something... slice the bagel...walk to the toaster....STAND BY THE TOASTER WAITING FOR THE BAGEL....take the bagel... oh forget it, you get the idea. Ich. Blech. Kill me.
(1)
jean c.
Wow high stress place and the stressed out workers take it out on the food...ordered the chopped thai Chicken Salad. they should rename it "trashed thai chicken salad". It was obvious that no care was given to throwing it in a plastic box, chopped and trampled.They may as well have trampled it. The guy who made it grunted and glared at me. I felt bad for him and all the others working at top speed but really Panera, check out this site in Watertown I have eaten at many other Paneras around New England always good fresh food and friendly service.This place NEEDS HELP and fresh salad.
(1)
Lindsay C.
I'm not a huge fan of Panera food, but I will say that their cookies are pretty damn good. The chocolate chip cookies are reminiscent of the ones that I used to get at my high school..barely cooked in the middle and so buttery that you can literally feel your arteries clogging while you eat it. Also the chocolate duo cookie (chocolate cookie w/ chocolate and white chocolate chunks) is fabulous..even better warmed up. :)
(3)
Jenny N.
I freakin' love Panera Bread. Yes, the service here is slow, but I think they put crack in the soup and sandwiches because they so delicious. I love the double chocolate cookies, and although the "artisanal bread" and giant specialty bagels are made by a large corporation, they are still delicious (Asiago is the bomb). I hope the gossip is true, because I can't wait for a Panera to open in Brookline!
(4)
Marissa P.
Don't get me wrong - I'd choose a nice independent cafe over a chain establishment any day. But all biases aside, this Panera location proved a good place to meet up with a study group on a chilly Sunday afternoon. We snagged spots in leather chairs next to the fireplace, grabbed some pastries and hot coffee, and settled in comfortably. Granted, it was noisier than we would have liked - the place was absolutely bumpin' on a Sunday - but once we found open seats and hunkered down to work, the noise became part of the background. Best of all, there were (Gasp!) parking spots and free WiFi for all.
(4)
Allison B.
ok, panera, i will give you credit where credit's due. since the implementation of your pager system, your workflow has gotten exponentially better. and of all the times i've asked for no onions on my sandwiches/salads, you've never messed up. so here's another star for ya. and i simply cannot help myself - i absolutely love your veggie sandwich. i don't even know what the heck a "peppadew pepper" is - but i don't care. that sandwich is delicious realized between two slices of sundried tomato bread. now just translate your lunch efficiency over to the breakfast staff, and another star will be yours to attain. good luck! **edited** holy crap you guys got a bagel slicer! have you been reading my reviews? too bad even with the slicer your breakfast service still leaves something to be desired (messed up my order - who really puts sundried tomato cream cheese on a blueberry bagel?, still slow as hale, and my latte was half-foam), so you've still got some improving to go before you get that fourth star. But for now, at least the two halves of my bagel are equally sized!
(3)
L-Train A.
this freaking place...so i now work in the same building as a Panera so I am all too familiar with it. The sandwiches are actually very good. The coffee sucks ass. Their "dark roast" is so thin and flavorless that after you put in milk and sugar it tastes like milk and sugar, only brown. After two days of Panera coffee, I now drive out of my way to go to a good coffee place (Cafenation) on my way to work avoid the coffee in the building I work in. Yes, it sucks that much. The work flow of this place is seriously impaired. I am sort of surprised that for how many stores they have that they didn't figure out a better design. Invariably it is confusing for people who have never been there about which line they should be in, and you end up with a mob standing around waiting for their food where people are trying to sit or walk through. I have gone in there when there is 5 people in line and six staff members working and it still takes a strangely long time to get a mediocre bagel. However, they really do have good sandwiches. I have a new tactic now of calling in my order ahead so i can come in and get my food without standing around awkwardly trying not to make eye contact with the rest of the hungry mob.
(2)
Ashley F.
#1 NO convenient Parking. #2 Long Lines. I am in the area almost everyday for work and Panera would be an easy choice but because of the two reasons above I no longer go there. It becomes a 20minute ordeal just to pick up my lunch.
(1)
Lalin A.
Ok, yes it is slow but Panera bread is like a pit stop during a pizza-fast food- mexican burrito lap. Medium size sandwiches- they won't stuff you but leave a good taste (without getting boring due to abundance of bread). I'd recommend it for lunch than dinner. Could be a breakfast/brunch place for weekends.
(4)
Kathleen D.
Everyone knows what Panera is so I'm not even going to bother to write a review. Instead I'm sharing a little-known fact. You can order off the kids menu. You can have grilled cheese! For only 3.50! And they'll give you chips for free! Just ask. I work near a Panera and am so fcking sick of everything on the menu. Stupid salads, boring soups, fatty bagels. Instead I go for the kids grilled cheese and I am a very happy girl.
(3)
pete g.
Panera is a stone's throw from my office, so I'm there every day. The dark roast coffee is acceptable and the bagels are mediocre. Their croissants suck. Quite often, one or two members of the staff really bring the duh (I have found this with every Panera location I've been to). What the hell, it beats Subway seven times out of ten and it's the only coffee for at least five blocks.
(3)
Joanne R.
First off, all Panera's are not alike. This one is dark/dreary upon entering. Tables are usually occupied by students/techies on their lap tops. Food is the usual for a panera, soup is hot, bread is fresh. Although food prep time can sometimes be toooo long. Notice they have a huge turnover in staff...Never see the same people behind the counter.
(3)
Betty P.
I used to go here all the time. Mmm, cinnamon crunch bagels!!! But on a recent visit with a fellow Yelp-er, we received the rudest service from Kristene (how she spells it). She was obnoxious, burned my bagel, and made others in line wait forever for their beverages. I cannot stand rolling of the eyes from somebody who works at an establishment! When I wrote to the management with my feedback, I never received a call or an email back to address my concerns. I probably won't go back to this location if that employee is waiting on me. The soups, sandwiches, etc. are good, but I expect courteous service on the side!!
(2)
Daigo F.
OK, it's a chain, and there is many more interesting reviews than this one, but the place is actually pretty good. I'm happy to grab a roast beef sandwich from there.
(3)
Al A.
meh... it is Panera... another chain place that wouldn't survive except it has very little competition in the area
(2)
Mo S.
I can't even go here anymore, and I live less than a mile away. Like other reviewers, I've been forced to endure the incompetence and cluelessness of their staff. It's truly incomprehensible. Also, if you attempt to use the wifi and comfortable seating here on the weekend, you're likely to be accosted by other hostile customers that need you to "hurry up" with your coffee so that they can sit down with ther lunches and 3 kids, etc. Managers are never anywhere to be found, and this place gets so competitive (between customers) when it's busy that I'm surprised I've never seen or been involved in a fight while I've been there. Avoid it at all costs.... if you have to have a Panera fix, do NOT go to this one - it'll ruin the restaurant for you.
(1)
Kristine M.
The thing I like about this Panera is that I can bring my laptop and work here for HOURS. It's comfortable and their Wifi is fast. I like their cookies and their sandwiches are pretty good too. Parking is awful there, just to warn you. And sometimes the people working there can be rude.
(4)
Robyn L.
After misreading a menu and accidentally ordering a salad instead of a sandwich, the folks here had no problem making up the so-desired sandwich and letting us keep the salad for no extra charge. That's really good customer service -- and both the salad and sandwiches were great! I'm counting the days till one opens in Needham. I'll just have to limit the number of bakery visits I can make in a month. . . Those bagels and pastries look good.
(4)
Adster N.
Healthier fast food than other choices, but you got to know what to select. Salads: Asian chicken salad or Bistro steak. Soup: French onion without croutons or low-fat Chicken noodle. If you want a treat, go for the IC Honeydew Green Tea (blended ice with green tea) - perfect for a summer day!
(4)
Jasmine P.
My friend and I went to Panera for French Onion Soup. The service was very good, the person taking the order being very friendly. Upon receiving the food I was not too pleased due to the fact that they had more cheese and there was no soup, when I went back to explain this to them they were very accommodating to giving me more soup. I love their French Onion soup in a bread bowl, it is very filling and I was unable to eat all of my soup (and I had an empty stomach all day). Overall this place is one of my favorite lunch spots.
(5)
Kya F.
It's like Au Bon Pain but nicer. I had never heard of them before, but a friend wanted to meet there last night, so I got to check it out. I got a hot sandwich which was good. The atmosphere is very cafe-ish. Lots of people there with laptops making use of the Wi-fi connection. The office park it's in is new and a bit unusual, so the Panera was a bit hard to find. It's by the big fountain.
(4)
Heather H.
It's not quite the St. Louis Bread Co. I grew up with, but Panera does a nice job of offering a fresh alternative to the choices in the area. It gets very busy during weekday lunch hour and you might have to fight for a table with the old ladies who come in a drink the same cup of coffee for 3 hours, but the food is worth it.
(4)
Patrick B.
If memory serves, Panera Bread is of the same DNA as Au Bon Pain - but its so far better than Au Bon Pain its hard to believe this is true. There's a place to order bread and bagels (and they'll slice the bread loafs if you ask) and another for soup & sandwiches. I've generally stuck to the sandwiches on the menu and they've always been good (the bread has a lot to do with it). I also like to pick up a sliced loaf of tomato basil bread to take home - though the loaf is so large its often hard to finish it.
(4)
Kate I.
jesus christmas. panera watertown is the special olympics of fast food global athletic competitions. soooooooo slllllloooooooow...... so slow. slllllllllloooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwww. slow. pain... ow... i mean... lattes there... ew.. it's like a cup of hot milk with a melted gingerbread man cookie inside with a splash of watered down coffee... and the coffee alone tastes like it's filtered through pennies and lipstick... i... can't.... even...
(2)
Andrew L.
They make great sandwiches, soups, and salads. They're a bit pricey but the meal is good. definitely a good spot while on your lunch break, just remember that the line flows out the door but it's moves quickly.
(4)
Jill M.
This cafe makes the best soup I have ever had. It's really quick and cheap, and has a huge selection of soups, salads and sandwiches. They also have a lot of coffee drinks for you caffeine addicts, and bagles and pastires to accompany them. The portions are a decent size, and it's definitely worth the drive if you don't have a location near you. Don't be deceived though - the food seems like it would be healthy for you but most of it is quite fatty. The foccacia bread has something like 30 grams of fat in. Truth be told, that's probably why it's so good!
(4)
Benjamin E.
Love this place. Have been going to this chain since 2006. With regards to this location I have been coming here for the last year and I have to say I'm very pleased with the service and with my lunch. I always get the sandwich and soup combo. I will always change up the sandwich but I always get the french onion soup. I can't get enough of the soup. Great food at a great price and being that when I come here it is normally for lunch, they are very quick and helps me get back on the road very fast. Great place. Would be a 5 star but for some reason the staff keep calling me Bob even though when I placed my order I told them my name is Ben.....Oh well
(4)
Donna Maria B.
What's going on with Panera lately? In the past three weeks, I've visted two locations and each time my visit was pretty horrible. My last visit at this particular store was met with indifferent customer service at the very best and borderline rude. I asked for a sandwich on a baguette. I was quite clear and I know I was because a baguette is an absolutely luxury for me, as I eat low carb and bread is an enormous treat. I was asked if I wanted potato chips on the side and said no thanks. I then went to a table with my coffee and waited for my (half) sandwich. My sandwich arrived on sourdough bread. I immediately told the person that I had ordered a baguette. Her answer 'that isn't what it says. it says no chips but it doesn't mention a baguette.' I responded, 'ok, but that is what i ordered.' Her response was then 'i can bring you a baguette on the side.' WHAT? I got the WRONG order. And, having worked in retail, I do know that sometimes/often people think they order things that they don't and even though I am CERTAIN that I ordered a baguette, I believe the appropriate response was to re-do my sandwich. What happened instead is that I sat there and got all grouchy and literally was mumbling things like 'they need to better train their employees' and 'everyone here really sucks' and it just put me in a very bad mood. When I next feel like a sandwich, I'll go to the one in Waltham where the service is outstanding. So disappointing. Basically I got my carbs and didn't really enjoy them. Ugh.
I love Panera but was extremely disappointed with my experience at this location. I ordered the BBQ Chicken Salad...when I got home there was no chicken...I called to let them know...and the guy on the phone was extremely rude. I wasn't asking for anything or being mean, I just wanted to express that I was a little disappointed and prevent it from happening again. The guy on the phone was basically yelling at me and had zero customer service skills. Very disappointed.
(1)
Erin N.
I go to this Panera mainly because it is one of the few options where I work, and it just never fails to fall short of expectations. Now granted: it is busy, there are about 2,000 people in the building I work at and I'm sure 400 of them filter through here every day for breakfast/lunch but STILL the service here is outrageously slow and outrageously bad. You'll find yourself waiting for 20+ minutes only to finally check in and have someone tell you they never got to or already lost or gave away your order. They are consistently running out of coffee/iced coffee and always seem shocked when that is the case and are then pretty slow to refill them. The food is really the same as any other Panera, so not much to comment on there. They do run out of bagels and popular bakery items very quickly, so don't expect to get an everything bagel after 9:00am, but the taste of everything is fairly standard. They do have free wifi and fairly ample seating, and to be fair I do see that the staff is trying very hard. It's definitely not apathy that is killing this place, it just seems like they can't quite manage to hit their groove. Hopefully they work it out, but for now I just can't recommend it.
(2)
Sean F.
Ah panera...standing at the register, no queue, waiting to be noticed by any one of the four people right there behind the counter, none of whom are fulfilling orders as there are none on the board. Alas no service, customers are just noise apparently. I'm half expecting one of the two food preparers to remove their plastic serving gloves and approach me at the counter, if just to break the awkwardness of my "intrusion" but...nuthin. Brian then enters, clearly the manager, clearly gets it, tells me someone will be right with me, to which I can't help but chuckle, and then alerts the "help" who's literally standing there, has been facing almost right in my direction the whole time, yet somehow not noticing that I'm at the register until her manager points it out. The ordering goes just fine. But then as the receipt with my food order number is printing, the "help" hands me the pager thing, turns her back and steps away without word (...umm is she going to close the deal? Hand me my receipt and even the slightest hospitality?!? Allow me to ask how long or even better, just tell me?...a thank you maybe? Or maybe she's getting me something? Is the transaction's over...it is right?) Brian passes by again to ask if I'm all set, to which I explain that I just need my receipt. He accommodates me, saying it should be about 5 mins. For the record, this may be the worst I've ever had it at panera 02472, but pretty much every time is an unaccommodated wait, even for just a simple empty cup, stacked right next to the register, with which to self-serve myself coffee (what is the hold up?!?) Never has such a queue been generated over so simple a transaction. Best thing they ever did is the "order pick up". Just come in, and self-serve your app-ordered, pre-paid meal just waiting on a shelf for you. ...won't even have talk to the "help"! HELLO Corporate!?! Get Brian some real help!! Save Panera! Be the heroes! ...yeah, If only
(1)
Kim K.
Went for an early lunch at 11am. The place was pretty dead. Service was friendly. It took about 5-7 minutes to get my soup and sandwich. A little long since it was empty in here but oh well. I would return.
(3)
Travis R.
They must administer an IQ test when you apply to work here and if you score too high you're not hired. I have never once placed an order that was correctly fulfilled. Today, for instance, I ordered two items and they forgot to give me one of the items. And it was a bakery item that all they had to do wad pick it up and put it in a bag. If you have to eat here ALWAYS check your order and never go when you're in a hurry.
(1)
Jessica C.
Wow! After promising me a refund for my bad experience, I checked my bank account and found that the charge had cleared. I called and asked to speak with a manager and they said they "didnt have time" to speak with me. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY at this Panera- they are NOT all alike!!! I wish I could leave negative stars for the scam artist GM!
(1)
Vanessa P.
Finally! Someone made eye contact with me! I come here almost every Saturday and get the breakfast power sandwich as a little reward after my workout. The staff is terrible! No one makes eye contact and I rarely see a smile. The food takes way longer than normal. They used to have just one guy in the food line but now they have added people. But this guy is so non customer oriented. He has never made eye contact. If you go somewhere every Saturday for months - they should recognize you. My breath of fresh air - John this moning. Made eye contact. Told me I had ordered his favorite muffin - blueberry and get this - SMILED! It's not that hard and it comes from the top. I also submitted a comment online and receive the can response and that it had been forwarded to the store manager - nothing. Unfortunately I can't say I will stop coming because it's convenient. But it sucks!
(2)
Bianca R.
Came here at 1:45 towards the end of the busy lunch hour. There were only about 5 people waiting for food and no one in line ordering. I understand they're coming off the end of a busy hour, however, the general manager Hazel Houseman was unbelievably rude and angry. They other employees were nothing but nice and provided good customer service, even the other manager Jon seemed very pleasant. I ordered a panini and asked for no mozzarella on it. I get my panini and there's mozzarella on it. I tell an employee I asked for it without the cheese and showed my receipt. The GM is right there and yells "What?" and I explain the minor issue with my sandwich and, yet again, she yells "I can't hear you!". I explain again and she proceeds to snatch the bag away from me and begins making my sandwich. No apology whatsoever and was condescending the entire time. I'm a pleasant college student in the Boston area, and having worked in the food industry I was not rude by any stretch of the imagination. Whoever hired her as a GM, inexcusably, made a horrible mistake. Will definitely not come back to Panera Bread ever again.
(1)
Kraye G.
It is what it is. Nothing fancy. Free wifi. Good coffee. Acceptable goodies. Clean restrooms Comfortable chairs. What makes it worth my while is the staff. Very pleasant.
(4)
Jacqui C.
I love Panera! I frequent them all over. This one is close to my work, so, I go to this one a lot. First, let me say, I've given them 4 stars for 2 reasons. 1) they have made mistakes on my orders a few times. I've gone here after work, ordered dinner for my hub and myself, gotten home and discovered sandwiches not correct, and, paid for bowls of soup yet only gotten cups, etc. HOWEVER....... 2) I gave them 4 stars because their manager, Stephanie, has ALWAYS made sure that I have received my entire order FREE OF CHARGE on my following visits! Even if say, only one thing was wrong, she always made sure to give me my entire order, exactly as I ordered, with no charge. She is always very gracious, and, eager to make sure I am happy, and, frankly, she never lets me down! Because of the excellent customer service, and, let's face it, even a screwed up order at Panera is delish, LOL, I will always keep coming back! Thanks. Stephanie!
(4)
Jessica S.
I work in the complex where this Panera is located, and understandably, at lunch time it is completely jammed packed. The volume of people that order during the week is kind of crazy. You always, always, always have to wait in an insane line to order and then to get your food. There just isn't enough space for everyone to comfortably (and civilly) wait around a small counter for their orders. Something has to be done to properly manage the lunch rush. I hate having to check my food every single time I order to ensure my meal is correctly made. I've already waited 15-20 minutes for lunch, and now I have to hand it back to be corrected. This happens WAY too much. Portion sizes tend to dramatically decrease during lunch as well. Ordering a full size salad means you get a half salad in a full size container. Quality of the food also suffers. Groan. Seating is tight and uncomfortable. The only exception are the outdoor tables in the summer time. That's a plus. They NEED to get some sort of intercom system instead of calling out names for people's food and/or they need to get working pagers. Those things never work. Panera employees: No one can hear you or understand you. Speak up. Also, I suggest being a bit nicer to customers. You have regulars that come in on a daily basis and you can't continue to be cranky and think it goes unnoticed. Quit it. I usually come here for lunch or breakfast at least once a week. I keep ending up there because the Arsenal Complex literally has no other options. Regardless, after being barked at for an umpteenth time, I'm taking a hiatus for awhile.
(2)
Peter S.
As a whole I like Panera. If I were rating all Paneras I would give 3-4 stars. This Panera, however, is crazy! They routinely run out of bread or other items, get orders wrong, have tremendously long lines or suffer some strange mishap that complicates all of the above. Add to this that they're constantly training someone new and the fun is just beginning! They do remain polite despite beginning under resourced and under staffed. Good luck!
(2)
CJ H.
I have loved Panara Bread since first discovering it in the midwest when I lived there. When I go back to visit family we always seem to choose Panera for lunch or coffee togther. You can always depend on it to be clean, efficiently run and offer consistently good food. There is such a variety of food offered that it is easy to please everyone. I especially enjoy the Panera Bread location in Watertown, MA. It is welcoming and comfortable. My favorites are the strawberry poppyseed chicken salad, the low-fat vegetarian garden vegetable soup and their green iced tea. Ymmm! My grandchildren love to go to Panera with me. They enjoy the smokehouse turkey panini and the grilled chesse. I have been taking them to Panera for years and they were thrilled a couple of years ago when pasta was added to the menu. They also love the clam chowder and chicken noodle soup in bread bowls, of course! In the summer we enjoy the smoothies very much. Also, the frozen lenonade is a huge favorite. I was thrilled when I heard recently on the news that Panera Bread has announced it will be removing all artificial food additives from all of its food items by 2016!!! This is fabulous news. Keep up the good work!!
(5)
Alexa S.
This Panera is NOT BALLIN. Whoever is running the show doesn't know what they're doing. Cashier didn't ring up food right. Must be bad training or management. Everyone in line has complained with my experience here.
(1)
Manfred S.
Spent many business meetings and lonely working hours at this Panera Bread location. Nothing really special, but it is a basically well run Panera Bread. Great bread, excellent lunch - soup, salad and sandwiches. Decent coffee, sugary bear claws, and more sugary (=yummy) short bread. no no no ... no more caramel lattes :-( .... why did I go on this low carb diet? Oh. Just to put up a fight Panera vs self-control ... won't win every round ... especially not today ...
(4)
Elise R.
Panera is panera; what makes this one terrible is that they're understaffed and overworked, and as a consequence always mess up orders. I have never gotten wgat I have specified the first time at this location - it takes 2 or 3 tries for them to succeed.
(2)
Natasha A.
I can't take it anymore! I need to start bringing my lunch to work more often. Panera starts out ok, but after a dozen or more times, it quickly becomes far less tolerable. The sandwiches are ok - just try to leave out condiments because they will absolutely smother the thing. Salads - could be ok if they were not 80% romaine lettuce. The one thing that is pretty good consistently is soups, especially the creamy tomato. They do have delicious bread, but one can't eat chunks of white bread all the time. I still go here for the convenience while working in the Arsenal offices, but I will not be missing Panera once my work relocates.
(3)
Lady T.
I agree with the other poster who said, "All Paneras are not alike." No, they are not! This is disappointing since it raises your expectations when you frequent a really good one and then change locations to a mediocre one (like Watertown). There is an older white woman with short hair that works there who is extremely rude and always seems angry and unhappy. She is a total downer! Most of the other staff are relatively friendly and a couple of them are super friendly. So, I guess that sort of balances out the staff who talk down to you and act like you are burdening them anytime you make a "special request" (like giving me what I asked for). I have tried to figure out which staff members work on what days so I can avoid them if at all possible. Yes, they are THAT bad! The food is inconsistent. Sometimes the bagels are overbaked, sometimes underbaked, and many times they run out early afternoon. The scones, patries and muffins are also inconsistent. Sometimes they are large, sometimes medium, and sometimes small (on the chinsy side of small). The smoothies are very overpriced for the amount you get. At least at Starbucks, you get a Venti for $5. Here, it is $5 for a grande sized cup. I have resorted to driving all the way to Waltham or Needham just to get bagels. I try to do some other shopping in the area to justify the trip.
(2)
Anna P.
The particular employee named Brittany(i might have misspelled the name) have showed her unprofessional side during my visit on february 17th at 3pm. She have been talking really loud about personal business-all i could hear was her voice nearly screaming out gossips. Also, dear employer, please teach her to cut paninis properly and not throw the plate at the customers as if they are dogs. Everyone else seemed to be placing peoples dishes in a polite manner. Throwing and placing a bag of chips on a plate with delicious food makes a difference.
(2)
Donald B.
Out of flatbread for sandwiches at 8:00p. Out of sodas. Every table needed wiping and there were plenty of employees just standing around.
(2)
Christine K.
Unfortunately, this Panera Bread has noticeably gone down hill over the years. I've worked nearby for the past seven years and Panera used to be a solid go-to for a quick lunch. It's gotten to the point that we have to go around 11 AM to beat the rush and not wait 45 minutes (seriously, it's taken that long) to order and get our lunch. Today we went in and ordered for three people.. even at 11 AM they managed to screw up our order. None of us got sides (not even a piece of bread) and there weren't any dressings in the salad. I'm left with an uneatable salad with no sides, and it cost me almost $10. Sorry, but I'm moving on to other deserving lunch spots in Watertown. Oh, and on a recent trip after work for dinner there was a hair in my husband's sandwich. When we asked for a new one to be made there were no apologies, only obvious annoyance for having to make us a new one.
(1)
Eric W.
Friendly staff, the manager brought me my food to my desk when I was studying. Enough said. Good place to eat and relax.
(5)
Kristine D.
This Panera Bread was such a great addition to the neighborhood when it first opened. Unfortunately, its quality has declined so much that we left today without placing an order. Today's problem was total lack of service (person taking orders stopped as we got to counter, waved over her shoulder as she walked away and came into the front to clear tables and empty trash. Others working at food prep did not/would not look at the line forming.). Those in the line that had grown behind us asked if anyone was working. As we left, a number of young workers came out of the kitchen and we told them why we had decided to leave--they responded: "Have a nice day." This restaurant has grown dirtier each visit. There doesn't appear to be "adult supervision" on site and it's sad to see the brand's reputation trashed.
(1)
Eunice E.
As you all know, I love Panera (see my love letter to the Harvard Square location), but this one... was not so swoon-worthy. We came inside, expecting to order the usual 2 for 7.99 (because I love that signature tomato & mozzarella panini...), and were confused for a second because everything was bakery and breakfast-oriented. We were then ushered further into the restaurant, to the "regular food" counter, where we stood and waited... and waited... until someone from behind the bakery counter ushered us BACK to the front, so we could order our food. What??? Okay... Our food came out quickly, and we were able to sit outside (finally... sun in Boston!), but the food wasn't quite as good here as at other locations, which is ridiculous since it's a chain, I know. But I think I'd rather schlep myself over to the Square, than eat at this location again. Sorry, P, but this time, it really is you, not me.
(2)
Kim C.
Just called the Panera Bread in Watertown to inquire about catering an event. Got disconnected twice. Then read the reviews on Yelp. This place seems like a disaster. Where is the management?
(1)
Elizabeth C.
Ordered at the catering department for a simple continental event for mother's day and nothing was delivered, nothing was done. I had a confirmation online that it was going to be ready at 9:15am. I had everything setup for breakfast and Panera did not deliver. extremely dissapointed. And now I have to wait 3-5 business days for my money back. Thanks Panera for nothing.
(1)
Allison R.
Hmm, Panera. The only place to grab lunch (la Casa de Pedro doesn't count, it's a sit-down restaurant) in my work complex. So, I used to gripe that Panera never filled me up, but I must've been crazy. When I have the poor foresight of not packing a work lunch, I saunter (or maybe drive, it is all the way across the parking lot!) to this location for an overpriced sandwich or salad. The roast beef sandwich is pretty okay (though once the meet was so raw and fatty I had to toss it), and today I'm enjoying some tomato soup with a turkey sandwich. Not bad, and definitely getting full, after all. I have a My Panera card, which gets me a free cookie every few months. I've heard gripes from others about bad/slow service, but I just find one woman there incapable of ever getting my order unless I repeat it three times. I come out of necessity only.
(2)
Pipe H.
This is the worst Panera Bread I've ever been to. With exception to very few of them, the staff is made up of air heads who are in La-La Land. I have literally stood in front of the counter for 10 minutes, with no line, until someone finally took my order. They just go about their own business and get to you when they feel like it. The kitchen area is a mess, and there's often trash all over the floor in plain view of the customers. To their defense though, this particular Panera Bread is frequented by weeny liberal type people who like to complain about everything and make their jobs 10x as difficult.
(1)
Courtney N.
Incredibly difficult location to find with one tiny sign. I was searching on foot around the executive park until I randomly went into a building and happened to find it. Despite the fact it was partially hidden, it was jam packed with people. Not a seat to be had. The line moved along but the cashier kept asking me to repeat what I said (due to the crushing noise of the other patrons) and then she tried to foist a gross red velvet cookie on me for extra money and seemed perturbed when I corrected her and she had to take it off of my bill. I guess it's convenient if you want to grab some take out and work in the area. I couldn't see anyone making a special trip to get to this particular location.
(3)
Jake B.
This is a solid location. Good food and good staff. The only drawback is the lack of comfy chairs and a couch near the fire place like some others have. But still a solid 4 stars
(4)
Jes R.
Coming here is always a real treat. And not in a good way. First off, who ever designed the layout of this location was either blind or on crack. Parking is often impossible, a few times I've driven around twice then given up and gone elsewhere to eat. The staff are bizarre, I don't know how else to describe them. Odd group of people- both staff and those who eat here. The food is inconsistent: example being today, just now in fact, I had broccoli soup that was so scalding hot I not only burned my tongue but also spent 20 minutes trying to eat it. Oh and even better, they ran out of clean dishes? So my soup came in a to-go cup with a plastic spoon..
(2)
April M.
The customer service at this location is a disgrace to say the least! How do you run out of Cinna-raisin bagels by 7:30-8am??!!! You should NEVER run out all day!!! This location constantly runs out of one thing or the other, the service is slow and bad. They are very unorganized no one seems happy to work there. I only have one warning...TURN AROUND! GO BACK! Drive down the street to the Arsenal Mall and go to Dunkins!
(1)
Amy D.
Panera Bread Company. Stick to the bread, that is what they are good at. The soups are acceptable as well. Want a sandwich? Choose to make your own - not one of the ones they offer. For some unknown reason, the "apples" in the salads are actually dried apple chips. For some other unknown reason the salads with chicken come with a huge variety of herbs on them. Conflicting flavors. Really bad. Really really bad. Having the customer loyalty card it a plus. You can actually get a free espresso drink or pastry or smoothie. There aren't many places to eat around Arsenal Street so if you must eat here, choose wisely.
(2)
Phil M.
Lots of outdoor seating at this venu, only a couple outlets so if you are here for work keep a sharp eye out. The staff aren't bad. For a chain, I'd say this location is pretty decent. The layout isn't the best, but its an old mill building. I'd say if you like Panera, and you need a place to do a little work, this isn't a bad spot.
(4)
Alex C.
I've been here about ten times and I think 8 of 10 times they were out of wildberry smoothie...morning time and later in the afternoon...really annoying you'd think they'd order more of the juice knowing how much of it they sell
(3)
Barbara A.
I go to this Panera all the time because it is near where I live and it is ok, but the other ones I have visited (ie Waltham or Framingham) are way better run. The one thing that really frustrates me is when someone comes in and cuts the line because they did not realize all the other 20 people standing by the counter were waiting to be served - duh. I have never seen this problem at other Panera's mostly because they have those movie cinema ropes helping distinguish the lines. Also, the person behind the counter takes the order AND fills it. They actually walk away and do the order ... while the others wait to get an order in (sometimes it takes a good 10 minutes to fill the order of a gazillion bagels and 200 gallons of coffee). Maybe, just maybe, you should have a person taking the order and another person fulfill it .... maybe. I like the rehab space, but I am weird that way :) and the fire place is pretty comfy on a cold day.
(3)
Lisa G.
I'm not a fan of Panera, but this has to be one of the worst locations I've been to. Despite being just a building away for over two years, I only went there around five times before giving up entirely. I don't know how much clearer it can be that I have no desire for pickles--none at all. They print it on the receipt "no pickles," and yet I always end up with pickles. The folks that make the sandwiches don't read at all. You have to have the cashier ask them verbally for any special requests. The hot chocolate is revolting. It tastes like flavored milk (vanilla?)--definitely nothing like chocolate. Complete waste of money. I once had a decent grill cheese sandwich there (it's cheap too, only $3). But the next time I had one, the cheese wasn't even melted. Ugh! I really wanted to like you Panera. But this location royally sucks.
(1)
Patrick O.
Food was fine, but customer service... more like employee attitude. From the person who takes your order, to the person who calls your name to serve you, to the management. If your waiting in line, avoid Dan at all costs. He's loud, clearly does not like working there and will call customers behind you up to order before you. If there is a longer line for another cashier, go to them, its worth the wait. Also if you can, and this might be hard, avoid Kayla Roy who calls the names for you to get your sandwich. Attitude central. Can you believe she even rolled her eyes at me? Give me a break. After complaining to management about our entire visit, nothing was resolved and the woman manager basically accused me of lying. I will gladly go out of my way to hit up the Waltham location any day.
(1)
Wei W.
Not up to par with the other Paneras I've gone to. Two of my friends and I came here on a lovely Saturday afternoon in hopes to dine outside in the nice weather after our spa morning. The experience could have been way better. The location is iffy, and parking is a hit or miss. We were lucky to find parking behind the back of the building. As we walked in, I immediately noticed that some of the tables were covered in crumbs and that the trash hadn't been taken out in what looked like two meal cycles. Ok, maybe they were understaffed, but seriously? I prefer a clean dining area over one that has flies hovering around it. I got over my initially "Gross" reaction and we placed our orders. Our cashier didn't even bother to give me a buzzer . . . I guess she expects that I'll be devoting my waiting time to the pick-up counter rather than securing a table. While the cashiers were friendly, they didn't seem particularly enthusiastic to be taking orders. Definitely needs improvement. The food was ok - not as fresh as the Panera locations in the city. Either that or we had the very last pieces of lettuce and bread of the pack . . . we ended up eating outside under the shade of a tilty umbrella. About 10 minutes into eating, one of the service girls came out with a survey card for us to fill out. She also came out with free samples of cookies that had been freshly baked - that was a plus given the circumstances. Unfortunately, the survey website was closed when I logged onto it to give feedback. We finally finished lunch; in the process of placing our trays in the outdoor bins, we discovered a few birds and flies hiding amongst trays of other guests. Seriously, someone needs to pay attention to cleanliness and sanitation! Man . . . I'm only coming back here if everything else near the Arsenal Mall is closed.
(2)
Shalin D.
Sometimes, when it's cold outside (ESPECIALLY when it's cold outside), all you crave is a searing hot latte and something buttery to dunk in it. Hence, I pulled off of Arsenal Street and made a bee line to the Panera. Big mistake. Don't expect to be treated like, well, a customer here. No hello, no goodbye, no thank you. Just a bored, expectant stare when you order. the woman at the cashier just looked at me until I said hello and then she tapped her nails against the side of the register until I finished my order. In the words of Bon Qui Qui: RUDE. All would have been forgiven if my order was right. But, I guess that's too much to ask. Not only was my latte NOT a latte (well, at least she got the steamed milk part right even if she forgot the coffee) but the barista got snotty when I asked her if she could also get the cookie I ordered along with my latte. As if she was doing me a favor. Look, I don't expect much at Panera. I get it: you're a fast food restaurant masquerading as a bakery. But, when the restaurant consistently strikes out on even the basics, I can't help but tell others to AVOID AVOID AVOID!
(1)
Marlana Y.
I agree. The street parking here is lack of. You need to be very lucky to find a space here. I only went here to fill my Panera you pick two craving when I usually go to the Quincy Location (which is MUCH BETTER!) I've been to other paneras and this one was the worst! The guy behind the register just looked overly confused the whole time we were ordering. When I got my tuna salad on my huge bread, imagine this... 5 inches of bread but only a spatter of tuna salad ( 2 inches). When I bit into it, I bit into bread only. It was not a very nice feeling by the end of my meal.
(1)
Lou I.
It's a Panera. You know what to expect when you go. Panera is one of my favorite places to eat when I want a quick, and relatively healthy, lunch on the go. There are two things about this particular Panera that bug me. 1. They do not offer a small cup of coffee. The cheapest cup of coffee is $2.40! That's a ripoff, especially considering Panera's coffee is not that great. 2. They limit wi-fi access to 30 min. during lunch. So, I am stuck here with my $2.40 coffee and now having to use my mobile data plan because I have a few extra minutes before my next appt. Bogus Panera, bogus!
(2)
Stephanie Y.
It's how they're all trained, all Panera have slow service which produces long lines and an even longer wait for food. I usually go grab my coffee and pastry. It's a good place to go for a snack before tennis or just to enjoy a book. Oh, the salad here is fresh.
(3)
Janssen M.
Prior review still stands food and service-wise, but this place has to have some gravitational pull for the socially fucktarded. Imagine you're at Panera. Just you and your laptop waiting to get in on some of that fine "watch my type in public" action. Luckily there are literally a half dozen open tables, some of them even just for two so you can be self-absorbed without being TOO self-absorbed. So what do you do? A. Sit down at a table for two as it's appropriate for the number of people (1) in your party. B. Sit down at a large table, spread all your shit across the entire table and ruin lunch for people who have friends/co-workers. (This is usually the most popular choice during the lunch hour btw) C. Walk up to an occupied table amidst all the unoccupied tables then walk around the table and pull out seats. Stand next to the seats like a giant fucking weirdo for five or six seconds and then storm off for an empty table. Do all of this without saying a word to the people who are already sitting there. Bonus points if you can bump the entire table with your safari-sized bulletproof laptop bag as you storm away. Today he chose C, and it was fucking amazing.
(3)
Lisa O.
+ Panera is yummy - They never called my name for my order + Free wifi - No outlets - Dirty tables + The best mac and cheese on the planet - Crazy line Eh....that's more minuses than pluses. But I still love you Panera.
(3)
Emily F.
Nightmare at lunch. AVOID! However, food is tasty and coffee is good, so I come back anyways. Try: Soup (broccoli cheddar) and sandwich (panini with mozzarella and tomato). Drink is whatever poison you like, coffee, tea or smoothie.
(3)
Gelsey B.
Nice location, good quality, friendly service. I have tried different branches, this is one of the best ones and I was never disappointed with the food. consistent good quality. I wish they were open till 10 pm though. Its a quite and nice place to study too.
(5)
Laura D.
Dear Panera, I know you won healthiest food chain or something along that line. I know that because it is plastered all over your restaurant walls. Your faux rustic decor is strange and there isn't really anything rustic about panini's. I have to say I am unsure why you won this award, maybe you made it up. I mean you have your calorie information on your menu board (which I think should be made necessary by every restaurant FYI) but after reading this board and you 700-1000 calorie sandwiches I question the above mentioned reward. Regardless of your need to pat yourself on your back with this little award, I have time to time had a craving for a cinnamon crunch bagel. They are so bad for you I might as well eat a doughnut but they are so delicious. I have had a few other items but nothing is outstanding. The turkey has always tasted off and the roast beef is like gray and nasty. I have been to several your restaurants. You are a chain. A mediocre chain. You try to be all pretentious with your overpriced fancy sounding sandwiches but in reality your sandwiches are nothing special and I would be better off going to Subway. You are not a local coffee shop and never will be. The customer service is not that of even a Starbucks. Your little greeting on your wifi about buying something and not sitting alone is annoying. If you do not want people hogging tables set up stools or seating areas where I can sit alone because I do not go to Panera looking to make friends. Besides the one in Everett this one is the absolute worst one I have been too. The other day I was at the mall and starving so I grabbed a Greek salad with grilled chicken and a baguette. They did not take my name or give me a pager. I just sat there waiting for my food. They did not call my name for about 10 minutes and there was my food on the counter. I was upset they didn't have any customer service and the staff where talking amongst themselves. I checked the bag and no bread, not utensils, no dressing. I went back and had to yell to get the attention of some maybe 18 year old guy who said "whats up?". "What's up?????????" I told him I needed my bread, utensils and dressing. He threw the utensils and the dressing in the bag then grabbed a whole loaf of bread and said here "my bad". Dude we are not friends. You are ten years my junior and you do not seem cool. You seem about as deuchy as the restaurant you work for. OK I was happy to get a loaf of bread I made sandwiches for days with it but the customer service was no where near desirable.
(1)
Lucy W.
This Panera sucks...one star I gave is for the free wi-fi and the other star is for its location (proximity to Arsenal Center for the Arts, parking garage that is usually full but at least it's free). I'm all for the quick-service category of food and I usually am a Panera fan...fast service, decent food. I've been frequenting this Panera for years- it's always hit or miss with the service and the food here so I check in at this location every once in awhile, hoping they got their act together. The portions have gotten smaller, the prices higher (recently up'ed the "You Pick Two" combo costs), service worse (employees stuffing my food into a too-small greasy bag), waits longer as the location has gotten more popular (gym and other businesses nearby). The food was edible at least, even if it was smushed. Meh...I need to stop coming back here. Try Strip-T's on School St (across the street) instead.
(2)
jorbi p.
Okay so chains generally suck unless they're called In n Out Burger, Popeyes or Bojangles. Panera is no exception. I don't care about your fancy faux-rustic decor. I don't care. I don't care because you are a terrible place to be. Your food is overpriced. It's McDonalds for people who shop at Old Navy. Okay I will grant you... some of their breads and pastries are pretty okay. I like the orange scone. This particular Panera is TERRIBLE. It might have some of the most inattentive employees on planet earth. I've had better food service at a prison cafeteria. I'm sitting here now, stealing internet from them. I went up to get a coffee. The friggin' MANAGER was on the phone. She looked at me. She ignored me. Kept blabbering away on the phone. Ugh. In the news today... North Korea's trying to start World War 3. If they succeed there will be one shining bright side to it... it will mean an end to Panera.
(1)
Patricia O.
I stopped in here for the 1st time after shopping or not shopping at the Arsenal Mall. I have heard all about Panera but had never stopped in. Wow - I had a half of sandwhich and a cup of soup. It was served prompt and piping hot. I have no complaints. I find it hard to find a really good soup on the outside and their potato soup was to die for. I will go back here again soon and I cannot wait to try out some other yummy items.
(4)
Allen B.
Don't bother. I have been working next door to Panera in Watertown for months now and have never gone in. In fact, never have gone into a Panera before. Being a Friday and the facts above, I decided to walk next door for a scone at 6:45am. There was one person in front of me ordering a dozen bagels and other doing various other things. Do you think that I could get something in 5 mins? Think again. The guy had to give his order for bagels from the start and no one offered any help. So much for Panera getting my business at all in the future - regardless of location. I'll keep my $2.59 for a scone and make them at home, and the flavors I want - w/o the sugar on top too!
(1)
Michael R.
If you're into sodium (salt) you will get your minimum daily allowance with any sandwich that you purchase at Panera. The sodium in their entrees range from 1800 to 2300 mg per sandwich. They automatically add salt to every sandwich they make. If you want your blood pressure elevated, Panera is the place to go!
(1)
Lauren P.
First of all, what the hell has happened to Panera in the past few years? Food quality is terrible and the prices are high. Every time I have gone to ANY Panera lately, my experience has been horrible. I came here for lunch one day, ordered a "you pick two" tuna sandwich and caesar salad. There was plastic in my tuna (maybe from the plastic bag it came in?) I brought it back and asked for more salad instead of another sandwich. They did not offer to give me my money back and the salad had old lettuce. Not going back there EVER!
(1)
Chevin W.
Although I've never been here during lunch time, this is definitely an above average Panera. Most of the workers are friendly, seating is spacious and comfortable, and the food is usually decent. Lots of natural sunlight and window shades if it gets too sunny. I do wish the food was more consistent though, and the tables could be cleaned more frequently and more thoroughly. They should also extend their hours to at least 10 pm like other Paneras in the area.
(4)
Ken M.
My mom puts a $25 gift card to Panera in my Christmas stocking every year. I had two laying around that still had small balances, so we decided to head out to get lunch today. This location gets pretty slammed on weekends and today was no exception. The dining area was messy and a bit dirty. The soup, sandwich and salad were fine. I do think the prices are a little high since the quality has slipped a bit in the past few years.
(3)
J. B.
The only other Panera location I go to is in Needham, which far surpasses Watertown's location in term of quality and service (but not parking -- so many complaints about the parking here, but there's a huge garage right next door that you can usually find a spot in -- you just might have to walk down some stairs, definitely not the worst thing that will happen during your visit to this Panera). I only go to the Watertown Panera out of necessity (as in, I'm broke, hungry and have a gift card). Otherwise, I would not come here. If you place a to-go order here, be sure to check it before you leave, because they almost always get my order wrong. Once I ordered a turkey sandwich with pickles and avocado on it. First they said they couldn't put pickles on the sandwich, but it comes with one on the side. I said that the Needham location does it all the time (is it that hard to cut up a pickle spear? What do you mean you "can't"?). They said they'd do it, but when I got my sandwich, not only were there no pickles ON the sandwich, but there wasn't even one on the side, even though it was supposed to come with one! To top it off, the avocado was far from ripe. I'm not sure where they find their employees, but most of them are young men who seem a little rough around the edges and not pleased to be assembling sandwiches. Even on the rare instance that they get my sandwich order right, the ingredients are usually just sloppily thrown in between the bread and I basically have to re-build my sandwich before I eat it so it doesn't fall apart. Recently, I've stuck to ordering soups and salads with no special requests, because there's a better chance I'll get what I want.
(2)
Will W.
WTF is up w/ people really sweating Panera these days? I think the place is terrible. I've lived in Watertown (w/in 1 mile of this location) for over 5 years and its brought me in twice. I gave it a second (and last) try recently and forked over more than $7 for a weird tasting Chicken Frontega Pannini. To make matters worse I do a little digging into this little treat and realize this sandwich is the rough equivalent to 1.5 Big Macs (calorie wise, but w/ 3 times the sodium for ~2x the price!!) as are most of the other items on their menu. Their bagels are tasteless crap too. Probably the best thing about this place is the large number of women who eat here and think they're being health conscious. Ha, laughable. Give me a BigMac or an Anna's Big Burrito any day.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Lunch Parking : Garage, Street Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Ambience : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Steven G.
I've been here a few times without many negative experiences besides them never having asiago bagels an not knowing until you order, but the vast majority of the time the cashier is not smart enough to just give you a focaccia and that's o.k. But the experience I had at this place 2 days ago changed it all. I'll make a long story short: Guy behind the counter acted like he had only been working there for 2 days, so I'll excuse his very inconvenient ignorance... to EVERYTHING. When he got one of my orders wrong I asked the black guy that always works in the pastry line if I could get the right bread and he said, "Hang on, let me get a manager so you don't have to say it twice." Before I could even tell him that it wasn't that kind of situation he yells across the restaurant, "JESSICA! YOU HAVE A COMPLAINT!" Well, I didn't. I just wanted the right bread which the manager took care of. Before I left I told the guy it might behoove him to be a little more discreet next time and he began to get into a condescending debate about how having a complaint is nothing to be ashamed about. I'm a grown-ass man, not a child. And I will never be going back to this poorly operated establishment ever again. I recommend going down the street and finding something else to eat and not supporting this poor franchise.
(1)Colleen B.
Take that Atkins...I'll have an egg and cheese on ciabatta bread! If you like bread, bread and more bread this is the place for you. Ooh the breakfast sandwich was so fresh. I also "heart" the turkey artichoke on focaccia. I really need to stop ordering it for like the 100th time. After checking their nutrition calculator I might. It's pretty high in sodium, but I don't eat it every day. I will give them props for a great website and the nutrition calculator is the bomb! I'm down with what other Yelpers have said that not all Panera's are alike and I agree. This location has the most friendly and reliable employees, compared with others that I've been to. I was really impressed on a recent visit with the way they treated their morning regulars....A+ on customer service. I dinged them a bit for parking cuz this location is really tough for that. Especially during the morning and lunch rush. Shhhh...don't tell anyone, but I parked in the Watertown Bank Only parking. I am a WSB customer though so I *could* have gone to the bank.
(3)Jeremy K.
I don't understand how Panera Bread become so popular. I find them to be quite expensive and their food tastes weird. I can't figure out why it's weird but to me the taste of their salads, sandwiches and whatever else they serve (I've been there multiple times) just doesn't taste right. Maybe they accidentally pored some weird spice in the dish every time I've been there; I don't know. The only reason one would probably ever go there is to use Wifi... Service can be pretty slow during peak hours but also surprisingly when it's not so busy. I found the staff to be ignorant about their menu and options and a little rude as well. This is based on me going there about 4-5 times, not just once.
(2)Eric L.
My stomach felt like it was mixing lukewarm acid.
(2)Guest A.
Update 3-24-13: Since the above viist to the Watertown location of Panera, I was able to buy the hot cross buns twice at another Panera location. The first time I asked if the hot cross buns were sold at all location or just at specific ones. The employee said that all their items are sold at every single location and could not say why one location had no idea what the hot cross buns where.
(1)Ariel G.
I have never had anything that I didn't like here. I have my definite favorites (like the asiago roast beef sandwich) but everything else has been tastey. There coffee and bakery stuff is good too. Also FREE Wi-Fi which I always like so I can mess around on my i touch. Near here? Hungery? Try it out.
(4)Meghan A.
This review isn't just for Watertown, it's for Panera everywhere. I need to stop going there all together. I've never liked Panera, I never will like Panera. My dad and my brother absolutely love it, so they jump all over it whenever they get the chance. I think it's gross. I had only been there for lunch, but last Sunday I went for a bacon, egg and cheese and I could have thrown up. The cheese tasted totally processed, the egg did not look fresh, like they claimed, and they forgot my bacon. FAIL. How could you forget the bacon? That's the most important part! I have also tried their sandwiches, pastries and salads, and I am just not impressed. Anything I've ever had there does not taste fresh. Maybe I've just had bad luck, but I think it's pretty telling I've been to several Panera establishments and have never had a positive experience there. Fenway just opened up a new Panera, so I went there, and there were a good amount of people in there. Upon closer inspection, though, they were drinking and eating food from Dunkin' Donuts and just using Panera as a nice, warm place to eat. That's rude, but kind of hilarious. I've officially given up on Panera. It's not worth the time, the money, or the icky aftertaste.
(1)Jim C.
I love Panera. They just always have such good baked goods and out of the ordinary sandwiches. And they always have free wireless so you can't beat that when you need wireless access in a pinch. Things to try: Asiago cheese bagel - super if you like asiago cheese Cinnamon crunch bagel - cinnamon roll meets bagel. So good if you feel like both Chocolate duet cookie - so good and perfectly chocolatey They also have this college aged girl who works the bakery section weekday evenings and she has a fantastic attitude. Bottom line: Two thumbs up for Panera. Only downside is that parking gets crowded on the street around there so you got to park in that parking structure every so often.
(4)Robin G.
Love the sandwiches as always but the parking is a joke.
(3)Jill H.
If nothing else, for what it lacks in decor, this Panera makes up points for convenience. I've pretty much made this place my second office, as it offers free wi-fi and ample parking. I wrote my senior thesis here and got an A so I like to give this Panera a little credit for that too. Other points worth mention... the bottomless coffee is actually quite good, and the food really isn't any different than any other Panera. I like the Greek Salad and French Onion Soup (although, if you're a FOS fan, this one is definitely a different take on the idea). While it tends to get crowded at lunch and other high-traffic times, I don't think I've ever had trouble finding a place to sit - which is what puts it above the Panera in Coolidge Corner. Overall, if you have a car, and are trying to get away to finish up that last weekly progress report, it's a good spot.
(3)Rachael K.
I don't think I've been here a single time where nothing went wrong. They are always out of baguettes and they don't tell you or they screw up your sandwich and for some reason can't make another or they decide not to give you a side and you don't discover until you're halfway home. I'm generally a fan of Panera but not this location. Not when my sandwich is soggy and cold after the 5 minute drive home. If you want a sandwich go to Quizons.
(1)A D.
FINE! Fine. I was picking up lunch for a couple coworkers today and I gave you a second chance. I'm all about second chances. Your tomato-mozz panini bumped you up to two stars. Mostly because there was accidentally a piece of super-crispy bacon in the wrapper. P.S. PLeeease stop hiring sleazy workers.
(2)Melanie D.
Honestly, I don't understand all the Panera passion. This was the first one I'd ever gone to, and it's really turned me off the entire chain. People rave about the bread-- I ordered a sandwich, but it didn't come on sun-dried tomato bread, it came on weird orange sponge that tasted like chemicals. Wonder Bread is real bread compared to this crap. The salad dressings are all sweet. Clearly, cheese has gotten so expensive that they're substituting tasteless plastic strands on the asiago bagel, which doesn't taste as spongelike, but still like DuPont. Service was ok, largely indifferent, although the manager seemed gracious. Look out for the creepy ogler guy who hangs out there in the mornings. He's the one that walks by your table several times really closely and looks at you the whole time. If I was over at the coffee station, he would make six trips to put a sugar in each time. If I sat in the back, he would go to the bathroom six times. Obviously, the coffee doesn't agree with him. My best friend works nearby, so by default, I ended up giving it a few shots. I even used that web survey link on all my receipts to tell them how much they suck, thinking it would be poetic justice if I won the $100 gift card drawing. Which I didn't. I was going to CL it and make back the money i spent there. Bastards.
(2)Vanilla P.
Wow, this Panera sucks. The layout is great, with a very distinct bakery area and a cafe area, yet the powers that be at Panera choose to only open the bakery registers... Even during lunch rush. I don't understand. Employees stood behind the registers of the cafe area, staring blankly at the wall behind me, until I asked, "Is this where I order?" A little more drooling later, "No, at the bakery." Okay. So I go to the bakery, only to have the register bum rushed by the bitch mother (B.M.) who was standing behind me at the cafe registers. Fine, I get it: You're important. YOU go first. So, there's only one employee in the bakery, and B.M. orders a decaf espresso drink. Employee goes to make it and discovers they don't have any decaf espresso. B.M. takes her sweet assed time trying to decide what she wants, and employee just stands there. Staring. Staring. Staring.... Until I finally get to order. Tomato soup + Asiago bagel + Lemonade. No sides. My soup was hot and ready by the time I sat down, my bagel was cheesy, and my lemonade lemony. I had a whole table to myself, but the next table had some Panera employees sitting there, hollering at the kitchen like hoodlums, and running back and forth from eating and helping themselves to bread, cheese, and extra vegetables from the kitchen. Can someone say, "Health department" ?
(1)Jay S.
I enjoy healthy food! I really enjoy tasty healthy food! The Thai chicken salad is the greatest salad ever (if you don't like cheese on everything).
(3)Ryan S.
1. It's a Panera. 2. The staff at the front are usually total douchelords, I've had the same 3 people several times over the past year and not once a smile or cordiality. 3. Ray the guy who works in the back is awesome and offered to help me carry my catering order to my car once, that was clutch. 4. They're a little lame on catering, forget side stuff or leave the lid loose on the coffee box and it leaks all over you car. 5. Parking is a pain during work hours. 6. There's like a mafia of old folks that hog the tables in the front and chill there every day drinking coffee for like four hours.
(3)Jen H.
Panera just like any other Panera. I came here to get some food between work (in Cambridge) and going to someone's house (in Waltham) -- and I wanted to eat and use my computer... the free WiFi plus knowing I could get a cup of broccoli 'n cheese soup, and 1/2 a Sierra Turkey Sandwich sealed the deal for my destination. Nothing special about this place, it's in a weird building, but plus is that there is a 6 story garage a hop, skip, and a jump away that is FREE so not like other parking garages you have to pay for.... :-D My service was really fast. Went in, ordered, went to bathroom to wash hands, came out, food was ready. Bonus points for not making me wait.
(3)Jess K.
I really love the food at Panera. So many options, especially with the You Pick Two. There are always a few combos of soups, sandwiches, and salads that I enjoy. I do agree with other reviewers that the service can be hit-or-miss. I go a lot, and my advice is to always check your order before walking away from the counter. Make sure you got your side, croutons, or whatever fix-ins so that you can avoid disappointment. They also have a tough time customizing dishes, like sometimes they say they will leave gouda off my salad and then it is there anyway. And to customize a panini, they once told me it would be a 30 minute wait! I would say the food makes it worth the risk of shoddy service. The bread really is just sooo good. They also have both sweet and savory bagels and cream cheeses. The French Toast bagel with Hazelnut cream cheese is really awesome!! Even though the service can be frustrating, some of the workers really try to do a great job. I always fill out the customer surveys that print out on the receipt so they know who to keep around.
(3)Adam Z.
Their food stinks, the prices are a tad over the top for what they serve. I really don't get how this chain stays open let alone how people pay for the food here. Little known fact about this particular Panera 96% of the employee either A. Are working there illegally (no greencard), or B. Are ex-convincts and current druggies. 100% fact. I'm giving this 1 star for 3 reasons, 1 The decor/atmosphere, 2 Free Wi-Fi, 3 One of the male cashiers actually does his job and is a great person.
(1)Erik O.
its a panera, you know what your getting. no surprises either way.
(4)Megan C.
I had nothing but good experience with this Panera. Although their food is expensive for a pick-up lunch place, it's tasty and I love that you get your choice of side. There is pretty high turnover, so make sure you get what you order!
(4)David H.
The one star above is for the wifi access, which is free. Everything else is completely lousy. This location is one of the only lunch places within walking distance of the Arsenal Complex so they know they have a captive audience and can provide an inferior product without losing customers. First off, why do all of the sandwiches taste exactly the same? Regardless of the meat I choose I'm always getting the same flavor. I would describe the taste as..."chicken-bacon." Seriously, what is that flavor and where is coming from? Is it baked into the bread? Even the mozzarella and tomato sandwich tastes like it. Secondly, they screw up more of my orders than they get right. I once walked back to my office with a mozzarella and tomato salad in a brown bag only to discover that they had forgotten the mozzarella! All they gave me was lettuce, tomato, and soggy pieces of bread that I guess were intended as croutons. So after paying like 7.95 or something for this "dish" I had to throw it away. Oy! Thirdly, way too crowded! Other than myself, who are all these preppy schmucks?
(1)Sara P.
Okay First off, I understand that Panera is in someway associated with McDonald's. However, I really enjoy their Thai Chicken Salad. It's delicious and I crave it often. This location is really busy around lunch time, so call in your order ahead. If you're looking for a place to study. This location is good for studying sometimes. This Review is mostly written for people who are looking for a place to study that is not Starbucks. The Good: 1. Thai Chicken Salad and Frontega Chicken Sandwich. (The food taste better than fast food but it also is a little more expensive). 2. There is a guy who works there who will randomly break out in song and has a wicked nice smile (I've developed a crush, but he's really friendly. I don't really try in interact with the other people so I'm not sure if they're nice or not). 3. If you don't going during lunch rush its generally pretty quiet and they're usually good about getting your order right (although don't order from the old lady if you can help it she's misheard me twice now). But they've remade my order both times no problem. The Bad: 1. The internet is kind of wonky. (This can be good or bad depending how you look at it). 2. There are not very many outlets. (If you do want an outlet they're located towards the front of the cafe). 3. I don't really have a three It's a chain so if you've got something against chains I suppose that's a bad thing. Overall, it's a chain the service and quality is basically fast food-esque. However the employees at this location don't seem overly disgruntled. It's generally nice, the food is tasty although kind of pricey for sandwiches and salads. The street parking is challenging because of the location but you can usually find a spot in the garage.
(3)Lauren V.
I love Panera. Even though the sandwiches and soups are overwhelmingly unhealthy and fatty for the most part, I find them tasty and I am a fan of the You Pick Two special, where you can pick a combination of two from half a sandwich, soup or a salad. I used to love the lemonade but it has gone downhill. But as long as they have those Asiago Cheese bagels, I will keep coming back. I have to give this particular Panera three stars though. Other reviewers are right in that the setup leaves much to be desired. The hall-like interior gets crowded when there is a line of people behind the counter. Which wouldn't be so bad if there wasn't almost always a line. Inevitably there is only one register open and the cashier is sloooower...than....death. I appreciate the jovial attitude and the sociable attitude really, but I don't need your life story when there are 15 people also queued up glowering at me because its my fault you won't shut up. Also, the place is so packed it is often difficult finding a spot to eat. If you came here for lunch, chances are you will spend the majority of your lunch hour waiting for your order. I am not sure when this place isn't busy...if ever.
(3)Aaron W.
I couldn't believe how mobbed this place was. Yeah, their salads are pretty good, but the Tuna Sandwich I ordered was straight-up awful. Um, can I have some tuna with my mayo? It was practically a mayo sandwich. Also think they need to switch brands of potato chips; Don't go for those kettle ones. (At least provide another option.) For what it's worth, the line moved pretty fast and the service was good.
(2)Jeffrey H.
Don't really know how you can mess up a Panera, but congratulations to the folks in Watertown, you've done it! What turned out to be just a quick grab of a 1/2 Bacon Turkey Bravo actually turned into the inspiration to yelp this place. Everyone knows Panera, and I would normally find little need to review it. But with this particular location, it is deserving of a warning to people who have the ability to travel to the next Panera when in need of some broccoli cheddar. Well, first of all, most RANDOM McRANDOM building ever. You look like you're walking into an abandoned warehouse/murder movie. Whatever, no big deal. But the actual setup of the restaurant inside is just plain awkward. The tables are arranged in a Picasso sort of way where you feel like one wrong step and you'll be gored by a stool. It's long and narrow, which I would assume would make crowded lunch hours QUITE annoying. But I went mid-afternoon when it was quiet....which brings me to my next point. There were probably 10 people in the restaurant. 5 of them being employees, 3 of them being myself and friends, and then a couple more already seated eating their food and sippin their drinks. How is it possible it took about 10 minutes to be served? We were definitely spotted as about 1/2 the staff either walked by us and stared or actually even said 'hi' to us. But, there was never a "we'll be right with you" or "hold onna sec while I finishing texting my acne infested boyfriend." Finally we got served and we got our meals. Absolutely nothing wrong with the food, it's your average Panera. But dear lord, the service and the atmosphere, well gag me with a spoon.
(2)Brandon M.
I work in the same complex and honestly, I'd kinda rather poke my eye out with a spork than do the lunchtime shuffle for a bad sandwich and a greasy bag of chips. Seriously, from 11:30 to 2:00 this place is a mad house. Placing your order involves an excruciatingly slow line and waiting for my order is a claustorphobic's nightmare. On the plus side...they rarely screw up the Frontega Chicken sandwich...anything else though...you've been warned.
(2)Jenna C.
This is the worst Panera I have ever been to. First of all the set up is so weird. The sandwich/salad/soup section is at one end and the bakery at the other with one narrow, awkward walkway between them. I was standing in line to order and 3 people walked by before one of them (I think a manager) told me that I should just go order at the bakery because he didn't know where the other employees were. Nice. I finally ordered and my food was ready within minutes. I was satisfied with the food but they seriously need to work on their customer service or maybe just their employee awareness.
(2)Margeaux A.
Love this Panera! It's in a convenient location, has free Wi-Fi, and great food! I can't speak to the variety because I always get the same thing (Italian combo, love it!), but it always tastes delicious. It will depend on what time you go whether or not you're able to get a table because the seats by the outlets will fill up fast during their busiest times. The service is always quick and the staff are friendly and helpful. The place is clean as well. I'm particularly pleased with this Panera Bread because I was there around closing time and they gave us free food that they had left over! Can't argue with that!
(5)Rob D.
I went out of my way today to Yelp today in order to malign Panera in Watertown. I have no idea where most of the other reviewers have gone but this place is second to none - and I don't mean that in a good way. I worked next to this place for 2 years, so it was a sandwich place of convenience, not choice. I'm not going to talk about the food - which is banal at best - but rather the counter help. Oh, they are pleasant enough people, but seem completely, utterly, frighteningly, alarmingly and bizarrely unaware that 95% of their clientle need to get to work. They gossip, they talk, they stare blankly straight ahead. When workers are frantically trying to grab coffee and a roll to get to work they...take a bagel order....think about it...punch it into the register...walk away from the register....find the bagel after having a conversation with one of their buddies about something... slice the bagel...walk to the toaster....STAND BY THE TOASTER WAITING FOR THE BAGEL....take the bagel... oh forget it, you get the idea. Ich. Blech. Kill me.
(1)jean c.
Wow high stress place and the stressed out workers take it out on the food...ordered the chopped thai Chicken Salad. they should rename it "trashed thai chicken salad". It was obvious that no care was given to throwing it in a plastic box, chopped and trampled.They may as well have trampled it. The guy who made it grunted and glared at me. I felt bad for him and all the others working at top speed but really Panera, check out this site in Watertown I have eaten at many other Paneras around New England always good fresh food and friendly service.This place NEEDS HELP and fresh salad.
(1)Lindsay C.
I'm not a huge fan of Panera food, but I will say that their cookies are pretty damn good. The chocolate chip cookies are reminiscent of the ones that I used to get at my high school..barely cooked in the middle and so buttery that you can literally feel your arteries clogging while you eat it. Also the chocolate duo cookie (chocolate cookie w/ chocolate and white chocolate chunks) is fabulous..even better warmed up. :)
(3)Jenny N.
I freakin' love Panera Bread. Yes, the service here is slow, but I think they put crack in the soup and sandwiches because they so delicious. I love the double chocolate cookies, and although the "artisanal bread" and giant specialty bagels are made by a large corporation, they are still delicious (Asiago is the bomb). I hope the gossip is true, because I can't wait for a Panera to open in Brookline!
(4)Marissa P.
Don't get me wrong - I'd choose a nice independent cafe over a chain establishment any day. But all biases aside, this Panera location proved a good place to meet up with a study group on a chilly Sunday afternoon. We snagged spots in leather chairs next to the fireplace, grabbed some pastries and hot coffee, and settled in comfortably. Granted, it was noisier than we would have liked - the place was absolutely bumpin' on a Sunday - but once we found open seats and hunkered down to work, the noise became part of the background. Best of all, there were (Gasp!) parking spots and free WiFi for all.
(4)Allison B.
ok, panera, i will give you credit where credit's due. since the implementation of your pager system, your workflow has gotten exponentially better. and of all the times i've asked for no onions on my sandwiches/salads, you've never messed up. so here's another star for ya. and i simply cannot help myself - i absolutely love your veggie sandwich. i don't even know what the heck a "peppadew pepper" is - but i don't care. that sandwich is delicious realized between two slices of sundried tomato bread. now just translate your lunch efficiency over to the breakfast staff, and another star will be yours to attain. good luck! **edited** holy crap you guys got a bagel slicer! have you been reading my reviews? too bad even with the slicer your breakfast service still leaves something to be desired (messed up my order - who really puts sundried tomato cream cheese on a blueberry bagel?, still slow as hale, and my latte was half-foam), so you've still got some improving to go before you get that fourth star. But for now, at least the two halves of my bagel are equally sized!
(3)L-Train A.
this freaking place...so i now work in the same building as a Panera so I am all too familiar with it. The sandwiches are actually very good. The coffee sucks ass. Their "dark roast" is so thin and flavorless that after you put in milk and sugar it tastes like milk and sugar, only brown. After two days of Panera coffee, I now drive out of my way to go to a good coffee place (Cafenation) on my way to work avoid the coffee in the building I work in. Yes, it sucks that much. The work flow of this place is seriously impaired. I am sort of surprised that for how many stores they have that they didn't figure out a better design. Invariably it is confusing for people who have never been there about which line they should be in, and you end up with a mob standing around waiting for their food where people are trying to sit or walk through. I have gone in there when there is 5 people in line and six staff members working and it still takes a strangely long time to get a mediocre bagel. However, they really do have good sandwiches. I have a new tactic now of calling in my order ahead so i can come in and get my food without standing around awkwardly trying not to make eye contact with the rest of the hungry mob.
(2)Ashley F.
#1 NO convenient Parking. #2 Long Lines. I am in the area almost everyday for work and Panera would be an easy choice but because of the two reasons above I no longer go there. It becomes a 20minute ordeal just to pick up my lunch.
(1)Lalin A.
Ok, yes it is slow but Panera bread is like a pit stop during a pizza-fast food- mexican burrito lap. Medium size sandwiches- they won't stuff you but leave a good taste (without getting boring due to abundance of bread). I'd recommend it for lunch than dinner. Could be a breakfast/brunch place for weekends.
(4)Kathleen D.
Everyone knows what Panera is so I'm not even going to bother to write a review. Instead I'm sharing a little-known fact. You can order off the kids menu. You can have grilled cheese! For only 3.50! And they'll give you chips for free! Just ask. I work near a Panera and am so fcking sick of everything on the menu. Stupid salads, boring soups, fatty bagels. Instead I go for the kids grilled cheese and I am a very happy girl.
(3)pete g.
Panera is a stone's throw from my office, so I'm there every day. The dark roast coffee is acceptable and the bagels are mediocre. Their croissants suck. Quite often, one or two members of the staff really bring the duh (I have found this with every Panera location I've been to). What the hell, it beats Subway seven times out of ten and it's the only coffee for at least five blocks.
(3)Joanne R.
First off, all Panera's are not alike. This one is dark/dreary upon entering. Tables are usually occupied by students/techies on their lap tops. Food is the usual for a panera, soup is hot, bread is fresh. Although food prep time can sometimes be toooo long. Notice they have a huge turnover in staff...Never see the same people behind the counter.
(3)Betty P.
I used to go here all the time. Mmm, cinnamon crunch bagels!!! But on a recent visit with a fellow Yelp-er, we received the rudest service from Kristene (how she spells it). She was obnoxious, burned my bagel, and made others in line wait forever for their beverages. I cannot stand rolling of the eyes from somebody who works at an establishment! When I wrote to the management with my feedback, I never received a call or an email back to address my concerns. I probably won't go back to this location if that employee is waiting on me. The soups, sandwiches, etc. are good, but I expect courteous service on the side!!
(2)Daigo F.
OK, it's a chain, and there is many more interesting reviews than this one, but the place is actually pretty good. I'm happy to grab a roast beef sandwich from there.
(3)Al A.
meh... it is Panera... another chain place that wouldn't survive except it has very little competition in the area
(2)Mo S.
I can't even go here anymore, and I live less than a mile away. Like other reviewers, I've been forced to endure the incompetence and cluelessness of their staff. It's truly incomprehensible. Also, if you attempt to use the wifi and comfortable seating here on the weekend, you're likely to be accosted by other hostile customers that need you to "hurry up" with your coffee so that they can sit down with ther lunches and 3 kids, etc. Managers are never anywhere to be found, and this place gets so competitive (between customers) when it's busy that I'm surprised I've never seen or been involved in a fight while I've been there. Avoid it at all costs.... if you have to have a Panera fix, do NOT go to this one - it'll ruin the restaurant for you.
(1)Kristine M.
The thing I like about this Panera is that I can bring my laptop and work here for HOURS. It's comfortable and their Wifi is fast. I like their cookies and their sandwiches are pretty good too. Parking is awful there, just to warn you. And sometimes the people working there can be rude.
(4)Robyn L.
After misreading a menu and accidentally ordering a salad instead of a sandwich, the folks here had no problem making up the so-desired sandwich and letting us keep the salad for no extra charge. That's really good customer service -- and both the salad and sandwiches were great! I'm counting the days till one opens in Needham. I'll just have to limit the number of bakery visits I can make in a month. . . Those bagels and pastries look good.
(4)Adster N.
Healthier fast food than other choices, but you got to know what to select. Salads: Asian chicken salad or Bistro steak. Soup: French onion without croutons or low-fat Chicken noodle. If you want a treat, go for the IC Honeydew Green Tea (blended ice with green tea) - perfect for a summer day!
(4)Jasmine P.
My friend and I went to Panera for French Onion Soup. The service was very good, the person taking the order being very friendly. Upon receiving the food I was not too pleased due to the fact that they had more cheese and there was no soup, when I went back to explain this to them they were very accommodating to giving me more soup. I love their French Onion soup in a bread bowl, it is very filling and I was unable to eat all of my soup (and I had an empty stomach all day). Overall this place is one of my favorite lunch spots.
(5)Kya F.
It's like Au Bon Pain but nicer. I had never heard of them before, but a friend wanted to meet there last night, so I got to check it out. I got a hot sandwich which was good. The atmosphere is very cafe-ish. Lots of people there with laptops making use of the Wi-fi connection. The office park it's in is new and a bit unusual, so the Panera was a bit hard to find. It's by the big fountain.
(4)Heather H.
It's not quite the St. Louis Bread Co. I grew up with, but Panera does a nice job of offering a fresh alternative to the choices in the area. It gets very busy during weekday lunch hour and you might have to fight for a table with the old ladies who come in a drink the same cup of coffee for 3 hours, but the food is worth it.
(4)Patrick B.
If memory serves, Panera Bread is of the same DNA as Au Bon Pain - but its so far better than Au Bon Pain its hard to believe this is true. There's a place to order bread and bagels (and they'll slice the bread loafs if you ask) and another for soup & sandwiches. I've generally stuck to the sandwiches on the menu and they've always been good (the bread has a lot to do with it). I also like to pick up a sliced loaf of tomato basil bread to take home - though the loaf is so large its often hard to finish it.
(4)Kate I.
jesus christmas. panera watertown is the special olympics of fast food global athletic competitions. soooooooo slllllloooooooow...... so slow. slllllllllloooooooooooooooowwwwwwwwww. slow. pain... ow... i mean... lattes there... ew.. it's like a cup of hot milk with a melted gingerbread man cookie inside with a splash of watered down coffee... and the coffee alone tastes like it's filtered through pennies and lipstick... i... can't.... even...
(2)Andrew L.
They make great sandwiches, soups, and salads. They're a bit pricey but the meal is good. definitely a good spot while on your lunch break, just remember that the line flows out the door but it's moves quickly.
(4)Jill M.
This cafe makes the best soup I have ever had. It's really quick and cheap, and has a huge selection of soups, salads and sandwiches. They also have a lot of coffee drinks for you caffeine addicts, and bagles and pastires to accompany them. The portions are a decent size, and it's definitely worth the drive if you don't have a location near you. Don't be deceived though - the food seems like it would be healthy for you but most of it is quite fatty. The foccacia bread has something like 30 grams of fat in. Truth be told, that's probably why it's so good!
(4)Benjamin E.
Love this place. Have been going to this chain since 2006. With regards to this location I have been coming here for the last year and I have to say I'm very pleased with the service and with my lunch. I always get the sandwich and soup combo. I will always change up the sandwich but I always get the french onion soup. I can't get enough of the soup. Great food at a great price and being that when I come here it is normally for lunch, they are very quick and helps me get back on the road very fast. Great place. Would be a 5 star but for some reason the staff keep calling me Bob even though when I placed my order I told them my name is Ben.....Oh well
(4)Donna Maria B.
What's going on with Panera lately? In the past three weeks, I've visted two locations and each time my visit was pretty horrible. My last visit at this particular store was met with indifferent customer service at the very best and borderline rude. I asked for a sandwich on a baguette. I was quite clear and I know I was because a baguette is an absolutely luxury for me, as I eat low carb and bread is an enormous treat. I was asked if I wanted potato chips on the side and said no thanks. I then went to a table with my coffee and waited for my (half) sandwich. My sandwich arrived on sourdough bread. I immediately told the person that I had ordered a baguette. Her answer 'that isn't what it says. it says no chips but it doesn't mention a baguette.' I responded, 'ok, but that is what i ordered.' Her response was then 'i can bring you a baguette on the side.' WHAT? I got the WRONG order. And, having worked in retail, I do know that sometimes/often people think they order things that they don't and even though I am CERTAIN that I ordered a baguette, I believe the appropriate response was to re-do my sandwich. What happened instead is that I sat there and got all grouchy and literally was mumbling things like 'they need to better train their employees' and 'everyone here really sucks' and it just put me in a very bad mood. When I next feel like a sandwich, I'll go to the one in Waltham where the service is outstanding. So disappointing. Basically I got my carbs and didn't really enjoy them. Ugh.
(1)Steven R.
Now maybe this Panera is 2.5 stars and not 2, but I just couldn't round up to 3 for it. The place was freezing cold. It is winter, and freezing cold outside, but I was ridiculously uncomfortable. Also, the floors were absurdly slippery. They put down one of those caution signs, but it wasn't slippery because they cleaned it. I think it's what the tile was made of or something..I really don't know what could have done that to the entire floor, but I've never actually seen that happen anywhere else. It's not the biggest deal in the world, and in isolation wouldn't influence my review, but was just one of many weird things here. On to the most important part - the food. We initially got a bowl of clam chowder and it was without a doubt the worst thing we've ever had. It was pretty uneddible and I will eat damn near anything. The pastry we got was okay, but nothing special. My fiancé got the quinoa bowl and it was actually very good though. There was one friendly staff member, but the rest weren't really super friendly. Oh..and to top it off the wifi was pretty awful.. Fyi: We sat near the counter where people pick up food and I was pretty amazed with how many orders they got incorrect. Ours came out fine, but it was a bit odd. Overall: go in with low expectations and hope for the best! There is at least a good number of tables in this Panera.
(2)Whitney S.
I love Panera but was extremely disappointed with my experience at this location. I ordered the BBQ Chicken Salad...when I got home there was no chicken...I called to let them know...and the guy on the phone was extremely rude. I wasn't asking for anything or being mean, I just wanted to express that I was a little disappointed and prevent it from happening again. The guy on the phone was basically yelling at me and had zero customer service skills. Very disappointed.
(1)Erin N.
I go to this Panera mainly because it is one of the few options where I work, and it just never fails to fall short of expectations. Now granted: it is busy, there are about 2,000 people in the building I work at and I'm sure 400 of them filter through here every day for breakfast/lunch but STILL the service here is outrageously slow and outrageously bad. You'll find yourself waiting for 20+ minutes only to finally check in and have someone tell you they never got to or already lost or gave away your order. They are consistently running out of coffee/iced coffee and always seem shocked when that is the case and are then pretty slow to refill them. The food is really the same as any other Panera, so not much to comment on there. They do run out of bagels and popular bakery items very quickly, so don't expect to get an everything bagel after 9:00am, but the taste of everything is fairly standard. They do have free wifi and fairly ample seating, and to be fair I do see that the staff is trying very hard. It's definitely not apathy that is killing this place, it just seems like they can't quite manage to hit their groove. Hopefully they work it out, but for now I just can't recommend it.
(2)Sean F.
Ah panera...standing at the register, no queue, waiting to be noticed by any one of the four people right there behind the counter, none of whom are fulfilling orders as there are none on the board. Alas no service, customers are just noise apparently. I'm half expecting one of the two food preparers to remove their plastic serving gloves and approach me at the counter, if just to break the awkwardness of my "intrusion" but...nuthin. Brian then enters, clearly the manager, clearly gets it, tells me someone will be right with me, to which I can't help but chuckle, and then alerts the "help" who's literally standing there, has been facing almost right in my direction the whole time, yet somehow not noticing that I'm at the register until her manager points it out. The ordering goes just fine. But then as the receipt with my food order number is printing, the "help" hands me the pager thing, turns her back and steps away without word (...umm is she going to close the deal? Hand me my receipt and even the slightest hospitality?!? Allow me to ask how long or even better, just tell me?...a thank you maybe? Or maybe she's getting me something? Is the transaction's over...it is right?) Brian passes by again to ask if I'm all set, to which I explain that I just need my receipt. He accommodates me, saying it should be about 5 mins. For the record, this may be the worst I've ever had it at panera 02472, but pretty much every time is an unaccommodated wait, even for just a simple empty cup, stacked right next to the register, with which to self-serve myself coffee (what is the hold up?!?) Never has such a queue been generated over so simple a transaction. Best thing they ever did is the "order pick up". Just come in, and self-serve your app-ordered, pre-paid meal just waiting on a shelf for you. ...won't even have talk to the "help"! HELLO Corporate!?! Get Brian some real help!! Save Panera! Be the heroes! ...yeah, If only
(1)Kim K.
Went for an early lunch at 11am. The place was pretty dead. Service was friendly. It took about 5-7 minutes to get my soup and sandwich. A little long since it was empty in here but oh well. I would return.
(3)Travis R.
They must administer an IQ test when you apply to work here and if you score too high you're not hired. I have never once placed an order that was correctly fulfilled. Today, for instance, I ordered two items and they forgot to give me one of the items. And it was a bakery item that all they had to do wad pick it up and put it in a bag. If you have to eat here ALWAYS check your order and never go when you're in a hurry.
(1)Jessica C.
Wow! After promising me a refund for my bad experience, I checked my bank account and found that the charge had cleared. I called and asked to speak with a manager and they said they "didnt have time" to speak with me. DO NOT WASTE YOUR TIME OR MONEY at this Panera- they are NOT all alike!!! I wish I could leave negative stars for the scam artist GM!
(1)Vanessa P.
Finally! Someone made eye contact with me! I come here almost every Saturday and get the breakfast power sandwich as a little reward after my workout. The staff is terrible! No one makes eye contact and I rarely see a smile. The food takes way longer than normal. They used to have just one guy in the food line but now they have added people. But this guy is so non customer oriented. He has never made eye contact. If you go somewhere every Saturday for months - they should recognize you. My breath of fresh air - John this moning. Made eye contact. Told me I had ordered his favorite muffin - blueberry and get this - SMILED! It's not that hard and it comes from the top. I also submitted a comment online and receive the can response and that it had been forwarded to the store manager - nothing. Unfortunately I can't say I will stop coming because it's convenient. But it sucks!
(2)Bianca R.
Came here at 1:45 towards the end of the busy lunch hour. There were only about 5 people waiting for food and no one in line ordering. I understand they're coming off the end of a busy hour, however, the general manager Hazel Houseman was unbelievably rude and angry. They other employees were nothing but nice and provided good customer service, even the other manager Jon seemed very pleasant. I ordered a panini and asked for no mozzarella on it. I get my panini and there's mozzarella on it. I tell an employee I asked for it without the cheese and showed my receipt. The GM is right there and yells "What?" and I explain the minor issue with my sandwich and, yet again, she yells "I can't hear you!". I explain again and she proceeds to snatch the bag away from me and begins making my sandwich. No apology whatsoever and was condescending the entire time. I'm a pleasant college student in the Boston area, and having worked in the food industry I was not rude by any stretch of the imagination. Whoever hired her as a GM, inexcusably, made a horrible mistake. Will definitely not come back to Panera Bread ever again.
(1)Kraye G.
It is what it is. Nothing fancy. Free wifi. Good coffee. Acceptable goodies. Clean restrooms Comfortable chairs. What makes it worth my while is the staff. Very pleasant.
(4)Jacqui C.
I love Panera! I frequent them all over. This one is close to my work, so, I go to this one a lot. First, let me say, I've given them 4 stars for 2 reasons. 1) they have made mistakes on my orders a few times. I've gone here after work, ordered dinner for my hub and myself, gotten home and discovered sandwiches not correct, and, paid for bowls of soup yet only gotten cups, etc. HOWEVER....... 2) I gave them 4 stars because their manager, Stephanie, has ALWAYS made sure that I have received my entire order FREE OF CHARGE on my following visits! Even if say, only one thing was wrong, she always made sure to give me my entire order, exactly as I ordered, with no charge. She is always very gracious, and, eager to make sure I am happy, and, frankly, she never lets me down! Because of the excellent customer service, and, let's face it, even a screwed up order at Panera is delish, LOL, I will always keep coming back! Thanks. Stephanie!
(4)Jessica S.
I work in the complex where this Panera is located, and understandably, at lunch time it is completely jammed packed. The volume of people that order during the week is kind of crazy. You always, always, always have to wait in an insane line to order and then to get your food. There just isn't enough space for everyone to comfortably (and civilly) wait around a small counter for their orders. Something has to be done to properly manage the lunch rush. I hate having to check my food every single time I order to ensure my meal is correctly made. I've already waited 15-20 minutes for lunch, and now I have to hand it back to be corrected. This happens WAY too much. Portion sizes tend to dramatically decrease during lunch as well. Ordering a full size salad means you get a half salad in a full size container. Quality of the food also suffers. Groan. Seating is tight and uncomfortable. The only exception are the outdoor tables in the summer time. That's a plus. They NEED to get some sort of intercom system instead of calling out names for people's food and/or they need to get working pagers. Those things never work. Panera employees: No one can hear you or understand you. Speak up. Also, I suggest being a bit nicer to customers. You have regulars that come in on a daily basis and you can't continue to be cranky and think it goes unnoticed. Quit it. I usually come here for lunch or breakfast at least once a week. I keep ending up there because the Arsenal Complex literally has no other options. Regardless, after being barked at for an umpteenth time, I'm taking a hiatus for awhile.
(2)Peter S.
As a whole I like Panera. If I were rating all Paneras I would give 3-4 stars. This Panera, however, is crazy! They routinely run out of bread or other items, get orders wrong, have tremendously long lines or suffer some strange mishap that complicates all of the above. Add to this that they're constantly training someone new and the fun is just beginning! They do remain polite despite beginning under resourced and under staffed. Good luck!
(2)CJ H.
I have loved Panara Bread since first discovering it in the midwest when I lived there. When I go back to visit family we always seem to choose Panera for lunch or coffee togther. You can always depend on it to be clean, efficiently run and offer consistently good food. There is such a variety of food offered that it is easy to please everyone. I especially enjoy the Panera Bread location in Watertown, MA. It is welcoming and comfortable. My favorites are the strawberry poppyseed chicken salad, the low-fat vegetarian garden vegetable soup and their green iced tea. Ymmm! My grandchildren love to go to Panera with me. They enjoy the smokehouse turkey panini and the grilled chesse. I have been taking them to Panera for years and they were thrilled a couple of years ago when pasta was added to the menu. They also love the clam chowder and chicken noodle soup in bread bowls, of course! In the summer we enjoy the smoothies very much. Also, the frozen lenonade is a huge favorite. I was thrilled when I heard recently on the news that Panera Bread has announced it will be removing all artificial food additives from all of its food items by 2016!!! This is fabulous news. Keep up the good work!!
(5)Alexa S.
This Panera is NOT BALLIN. Whoever is running the show doesn't know what they're doing. Cashier didn't ring up food right. Must be bad training or management. Everyone in line has complained with my experience here.
(1)Manfred S.
Spent many business meetings and lonely working hours at this Panera Bread location. Nothing really special, but it is a basically well run Panera Bread. Great bread, excellent lunch - soup, salad and sandwiches. Decent coffee, sugary bear claws, and more sugary (=yummy) short bread. no no no ... no more caramel lattes :-( .... why did I go on this low carb diet? Oh. Just to put up a fight Panera vs self-control ... won't win every round ... especially not today ...
(4)Elise R.
Panera is panera; what makes this one terrible is that they're understaffed and overworked, and as a consequence always mess up orders. I have never gotten wgat I have specified the first time at this location - it takes 2 or 3 tries for them to succeed.
(2)Natasha A.
I can't take it anymore! I need to start bringing my lunch to work more often. Panera starts out ok, but after a dozen or more times, it quickly becomes far less tolerable. The sandwiches are ok - just try to leave out condiments because they will absolutely smother the thing. Salads - could be ok if they were not 80% romaine lettuce. The one thing that is pretty good consistently is soups, especially the creamy tomato. They do have delicious bread, but one can't eat chunks of white bread all the time. I still go here for the convenience while working in the Arsenal offices, but I will not be missing Panera once my work relocates.
(3)Lady T.
I agree with the other poster who said, "All Paneras are not alike." No, they are not! This is disappointing since it raises your expectations when you frequent a really good one and then change locations to a mediocre one (like Watertown). There is an older white woman with short hair that works there who is extremely rude and always seems angry and unhappy. She is a total downer! Most of the other staff are relatively friendly and a couple of them are super friendly. So, I guess that sort of balances out the staff who talk down to you and act like you are burdening them anytime you make a "special request" (like giving me what I asked for). I have tried to figure out which staff members work on what days so I can avoid them if at all possible. Yes, they are THAT bad! The food is inconsistent. Sometimes the bagels are overbaked, sometimes underbaked, and many times they run out early afternoon. The scones, patries and muffins are also inconsistent. Sometimes they are large, sometimes medium, and sometimes small (on the chinsy side of small). The smoothies are very overpriced for the amount you get. At least at Starbucks, you get a Venti for $5. Here, it is $5 for a grande sized cup. I have resorted to driving all the way to Waltham or Needham just to get bagels. I try to do some other shopping in the area to justify the trip.
(2)Anna P.
The particular employee named Brittany(i might have misspelled the name) have showed her unprofessional side during my visit on february 17th at 3pm. She have been talking really loud about personal business-all i could hear was her voice nearly screaming out gossips. Also, dear employer, please teach her to cut paninis properly and not throw the plate at the customers as if they are dogs. Everyone else seemed to be placing peoples dishes in a polite manner. Throwing and placing a bag of chips on a plate with delicious food makes a difference.
(2)Donald B.
Out of flatbread for sandwiches at 8:00p. Out of sodas. Every table needed wiping and there were plenty of employees just standing around.
(2)Christine K.
Unfortunately, this Panera Bread has noticeably gone down hill over the years. I've worked nearby for the past seven years and Panera used to be a solid go-to for a quick lunch. It's gotten to the point that we have to go around 11 AM to beat the rush and not wait 45 minutes (seriously, it's taken that long) to order and get our lunch. Today we went in and ordered for three people.. even at 11 AM they managed to screw up our order. None of us got sides (not even a piece of bread) and there weren't any dressings in the salad. I'm left with an uneatable salad with no sides, and it cost me almost $10. Sorry, but I'm moving on to other deserving lunch spots in Watertown. Oh, and on a recent trip after work for dinner there was a hair in my husband's sandwich. When we asked for a new one to be made there were no apologies, only obvious annoyance for having to make us a new one.
(1)Eric W.
Friendly staff, the manager brought me my food to my desk when I was studying. Enough said. Good place to eat and relax.
(5)Kristine D.
This Panera Bread was such a great addition to the neighborhood when it first opened. Unfortunately, its quality has declined so much that we left today without placing an order. Today's problem was total lack of service (person taking orders stopped as we got to counter, waved over her shoulder as she walked away and came into the front to clear tables and empty trash. Others working at food prep did not/would not look at the line forming.). Those in the line that had grown behind us asked if anyone was working. As we left, a number of young workers came out of the kitchen and we told them why we had decided to leave--they responded: "Have a nice day." This restaurant has grown dirtier each visit. There doesn't appear to be "adult supervision" on site and it's sad to see the brand's reputation trashed.
(1)Eunice E.
As you all know, I love Panera (see my love letter to the Harvard Square location), but this one... was not so swoon-worthy. We came inside, expecting to order the usual 2 for 7.99 (because I love that signature tomato & mozzarella panini...), and were confused for a second because everything was bakery and breakfast-oriented. We were then ushered further into the restaurant, to the "regular food" counter, where we stood and waited... and waited... until someone from behind the bakery counter ushered us BACK to the front, so we could order our food. What??? Okay... Our food came out quickly, and we were able to sit outside (finally... sun in Boston!), but the food wasn't quite as good here as at other locations, which is ridiculous since it's a chain, I know. But I think I'd rather schlep myself over to the Square, than eat at this location again. Sorry, P, but this time, it really is you, not me.
(2)Kim C.
Just called the Panera Bread in Watertown to inquire about catering an event. Got disconnected twice. Then read the reviews on Yelp. This place seems like a disaster. Where is the management?
(1)Elizabeth C.
Ordered at the catering department for a simple continental event for mother's day and nothing was delivered, nothing was done. I had a confirmation online that it was going to be ready at 9:15am. I had everything setup for breakfast and Panera did not deliver. extremely dissapointed. And now I have to wait 3-5 business days for my money back. Thanks Panera for nothing.
(1)Allison R.
Hmm, Panera. The only place to grab lunch (la Casa de Pedro doesn't count, it's a sit-down restaurant) in my work complex. So, I used to gripe that Panera never filled me up, but I must've been crazy. When I have the poor foresight of not packing a work lunch, I saunter (or maybe drive, it is all the way across the parking lot!) to this location for an overpriced sandwich or salad. The roast beef sandwich is pretty okay (though once the meet was so raw and fatty I had to toss it), and today I'm enjoying some tomato soup with a turkey sandwich. Not bad, and definitely getting full, after all. I have a My Panera card, which gets me a free cookie every few months. I've heard gripes from others about bad/slow service, but I just find one woman there incapable of ever getting my order unless I repeat it three times. I come out of necessity only.
(2)Pipe H.
This is the worst Panera Bread I've ever been to. With exception to very few of them, the staff is made up of air heads who are in La-La Land. I have literally stood in front of the counter for 10 minutes, with no line, until someone finally took my order. They just go about their own business and get to you when they feel like it. The kitchen area is a mess, and there's often trash all over the floor in plain view of the customers. To their defense though, this particular Panera Bread is frequented by weeny liberal type people who like to complain about everything and make their jobs 10x as difficult.
(1)Courtney N.
Incredibly difficult location to find with one tiny sign. I was searching on foot around the executive park until I randomly went into a building and happened to find it. Despite the fact it was partially hidden, it was jam packed with people. Not a seat to be had. The line moved along but the cashier kept asking me to repeat what I said (due to the crushing noise of the other patrons) and then she tried to foist a gross red velvet cookie on me for extra money and seemed perturbed when I corrected her and she had to take it off of my bill. I guess it's convenient if you want to grab some take out and work in the area. I couldn't see anyone making a special trip to get to this particular location.
(3)Jake B.
This is a solid location. Good food and good staff. The only drawback is the lack of comfy chairs and a couch near the fire place like some others have. But still a solid 4 stars
(4)Jes R.
Coming here is always a real treat. And not in a good way. First off, who ever designed the layout of this location was either blind or on crack. Parking is often impossible, a few times I've driven around twice then given up and gone elsewhere to eat. The staff are bizarre, I don't know how else to describe them. Odd group of people- both staff and those who eat here. The food is inconsistent: example being today, just now in fact, I had broccoli soup that was so scalding hot I not only burned my tongue but also spent 20 minutes trying to eat it. Oh and even better, they ran out of clean dishes? So my soup came in a to-go cup with a plastic spoon..
(2)April M.
The customer service at this location is a disgrace to say the least! How do you run out of Cinna-raisin bagels by 7:30-8am??!!! You should NEVER run out all day!!! This location constantly runs out of one thing or the other, the service is slow and bad. They are very unorganized no one seems happy to work there. I only have one warning...TURN AROUND! GO BACK! Drive down the street to the Arsenal Mall and go to Dunkins!
(1)Amy D.
Panera Bread Company. Stick to the bread, that is what they are good at. The soups are acceptable as well. Want a sandwich? Choose to make your own - not one of the ones they offer. For some unknown reason, the "apples" in the salads are actually dried apple chips. For some other unknown reason the salads with chicken come with a huge variety of herbs on them. Conflicting flavors. Really bad. Really really bad. Having the customer loyalty card it a plus. You can actually get a free espresso drink or pastry or smoothie. There aren't many places to eat around Arsenal Street so if you must eat here, choose wisely.
(2)Phil M.
Lots of outdoor seating at this venu, only a couple outlets so if you are here for work keep a sharp eye out. The staff aren't bad. For a chain, I'd say this location is pretty decent. The layout isn't the best, but its an old mill building. I'd say if you like Panera, and you need a place to do a little work, this isn't a bad spot.
(4)Alex C.
I've been here about ten times and I think 8 of 10 times they were out of wildberry smoothie...morning time and later in the afternoon...really annoying you'd think they'd order more of the juice knowing how much of it they sell
(3)Barbara A.
I go to this Panera all the time because it is near where I live and it is ok, but the other ones I have visited (ie Waltham or Framingham) are way better run. The one thing that really frustrates me is when someone comes in and cuts the line because they did not realize all the other 20 people standing by the counter were waiting to be served - duh. I have never seen this problem at other Panera's mostly because they have those movie cinema ropes helping distinguish the lines. Also, the person behind the counter takes the order AND fills it. They actually walk away and do the order ... while the others wait to get an order in (sometimes it takes a good 10 minutes to fill the order of a gazillion bagels and 200 gallons of coffee). Maybe, just maybe, you should have a person taking the order and another person fulfill it .... maybe. I like the rehab space, but I am weird that way :) and the fire place is pretty comfy on a cold day.
(3)Lisa G.
I'm not a fan of Panera, but this has to be one of the worst locations I've been to. Despite being just a building away for over two years, I only went there around five times before giving up entirely. I don't know how much clearer it can be that I have no desire for pickles--none at all. They print it on the receipt "no pickles," and yet I always end up with pickles. The folks that make the sandwiches don't read at all. You have to have the cashier ask them verbally for any special requests. The hot chocolate is revolting. It tastes like flavored milk (vanilla?)--definitely nothing like chocolate. Complete waste of money. I once had a decent grill cheese sandwich there (it's cheap too, only $3). But the next time I had one, the cheese wasn't even melted. Ugh! I really wanted to like you Panera. But this location royally sucks.
(1)Patrick O.
Food was fine, but customer service... more like employee attitude. From the person who takes your order, to the person who calls your name to serve you, to the management. If your waiting in line, avoid Dan at all costs. He's loud, clearly does not like working there and will call customers behind you up to order before you. If there is a longer line for another cashier, go to them, its worth the wait. Also if you can, and this might be hard, avoid Kayla Roy who calls the names for you to get your sandwich. Attitude central. Can you believe she even rolled her eyes at me? Give me a break. After complaining to management about our entire visit, nothing was resolved and the woman manager basically accused me of lying. I will gladly go out of my way to hit up the Waltham location any day.
(1)Wei W.
Not up to par with the other Paneras I've gone to. Two of my friends and I came here on a lovely Saturday afternoon in hopes to dine outside in the nice weather after our spa morning. The experience could have been way better. The location is iffy, and parking is a hit or miss. We were lucky to find parking behind the back of the building. As we walked in, I immediately noticed that some of the tables were covered in crumbs and that the trash hadn't been taken out in what looked like two meal cycles. Ok, maybe they were understaffed, but seriously? I prefer a clean dining area over one that has flies hovering around it. I got over my initially "Gross" reaction and we placed our orders. Our cashier didn't even bother to give me a buzzer . . . I guess she expects that I'll be devoting my waiting time to the pick-up counter rather than securing a table. While the cashiers were friendly, they didn't seem particularly enthusiastic to be taking orders. Definitely needs improvement. The food was ok - not as fresh as the Panera locations in the city. Either that or we had the very last pieces of lettuce and bread of the pack . . . we ended up eating outside under the shade of a tilty umbrella. About 10 minutes into eating, one of the service girls came out with a survey card for us to fill out. She also came out with free samples of cookies that had been freshly baked - that was a plus given the circumstances. Unfortunately, the survey website was closed when I logged onto it to give feedback. We finally finished lunch; in the process of placing our trays in the outdoor bins, we discovered a few birds and flies hiding amongst trays of other guests. Seriously, someone needs to pay attention to cleanliness and sanitation! Man . . . I'm only coming back here if everything else near the Arsenal Mall is closed.
(2)Shalin D.
Sometimes, when it's cold outside (ESPECIALLY when it's cold outside), all you crave is a searing hot latte and something buttery to dunk in it. Hence, I pulled off of Arsenal Street and made a bee line to the Panera. Big mistake. Don't expect to be treated like, well, a customer here. No hello, no goodbye, no thank you. Just a bored, expectant stare when you order. the woman at the cashier just looked at me until I said hello and then she tapped her nails against the side of the register until I finished my order. In the words of Bon Qui Qui: RUDE. All would have been forgiven if my order was right. But, I guess that's too much to ask. Not only was my latte NOT a latte (well, at least she got the steamed milk part right even if she forgot the coffee) but the barista got snotty when I asked her if she could also get the cookie I ordered along with my latte. As if she was doing me a favor. Look, I don't expect much at Panera. I get it: you're a fast food restaurant masquerading as a bakery. But, when the restaurant consistently strikes out on even the basics, I can't help but tell others to AVOID AVOID AVOID!
(1)Marlana Y.
I agree. The street parking here is lack of. You need to be very lucky to find a space here. I only went here to fill my Panera you pick two craving when I usually go to the Quincy Location (which is MUCH BETTER!) I've been to other paneras and this one was the worst! The guy behind the register just looked overly confused the whole time we were ordering. When I got my tuna salad on my huge bread, imagine this... 5 inches of bread but only a spatter of tuna salad ( 2 inches). When I bit into it, I bit into bread only. It was not a very nice feeling by the end of my meal.
(1)Lou I.
It's a Panera. You know what to expect when you go. Panera is one of my favorite places to eat when I want a quick, and relatively healthy, lunch on the go. There are two things about this particular Panera that bug me. 1. They do not offer a small cup of coffee. The cheapest cup of coffee is $2.40! That's a ripoff, especially considering Panera's coffee is not that great. 2. They limit wi-fi access to 30 min. during lunch. So, I am stuck here with my $2.40 coffee and now having to use my mobile data plan because I have a few extra minutes before my next appt. Bogus Panera, bogus!
(2)Stephanie Y.
It's how they're all trained, all Panera have slow service which produces long lines and an even longer wait for food. I usually go grab my coffee and pastry. It's a good place to go for a snack before tennis or just to enjoy a book. Oh, the salad here is fresh.
(3)Janssen M.
Prior review still stands food and service-wise, but this place has to have some gravitational pull for the socially fucktarded. Imagine you're at Panera. Just you and your laptop waiting to get in on some of that fine "watch my type in public" action. Luckily there are literally a half dozen open tables, some of them even just for two so you can be self-absorbed without being TOO self-absorbed. So what do you do? A. Sit down at a table for two as it's appropriate for the number of people (1) in your party. B. Sit down at a large table, spread all your shit across the entire table and ruin lunch for people who have friends/co-workers. (This is usually the most popular choice during the lunch hour btw) C. Walk up to an occupied table amidst all the unoccupied tables then walk around the table and pull out seats. Stand next to the seats like a giant fucking weirdo for five or six seconds and then storm off for an empty table. Do all of this without saying a word to the people who are already sitting there. Bonus points if you can bump the entire table with your safari-sized bulletproof laptop bag as you storm away. Today he chose C, and it was fucking amazing.
(3)Lisa O.
+ Panera is yummy - They never called my name for my order + Free wifi - No outlets - Dirty tables + The best mac and cheese on the planet - Crazy line Eh....that's more minuses than pluses. But I still love you Panera.
(3)Emily F.
Nightmare at lunch. AVOID! However, food is tasty and coffee is good, so I come back anyways. Try: Soup (broccoli cheddar) and sandwich (panini with mozzarella and tomato). Drink is whatever poison you like, coffee, tea or smoothie.
(3)Gelsey B.
Nice location, good quality, friendly service. I have tried different branches, this is one of the best ones and I was never disappointed with the food. consistent good quality. I wish they were open till 10 pm though. Its a quite and nice place to study too.
(5)Laura D.
Dear Panera, I know you won healthiest food chain or something along that line. I know that because it is plastered all over your restaurant walls. Your faux rustic decor is strange and there isn't really anything rustic about panini's. I have to say I am unsure why you won this award, maybe you made it up. I mean you have your calorie information on your menu board (which I think should be made necessary by every restaurant FYI) but after reading this board and you 700-1000 calorie sandwiches I question the above mentioned reward. Regardless of your need to pat yourself on your back with this little award, I have time to time had a craving for a cinnamon crunch bagel. They are so bad for you I might as well eat a doughnut but they are so delicious. I have had a few other items but nothing is outstanding. The turkey has always tasted off and the roast beef is like gray and nasty. I have been to several your restaurants. You are a chain. A mediocre chain. You try to be all pretentious with your overpriced fancy sounding sandwiches but in reality your sandwiches are nothing special and I would be better off going to Subway. You are not a local coffee shop and never will be. The customer service is not that of even a Starbucks. Your little greeting on your wifi about buying something and not sitting alone is annoying. If you do not want people hogging tables set up stools or seating areas where I can sit alone because I do not go to Panera looking to make friends. Besides the one in Everett this one is the absolute worst one I have been too. The other day I was at the mall and starving so I grabbed a Greek salad with grilled chicken and a baguette. They did not take my name or give me a pager. I just sat there waiting for my food. They did not call my name for about 10 minutes and there was my food on the counter. I was upset they didn't have any customer service and the staff where talking amongst themselves. I checked the bag and no bread, not utensils, no dressing. I went back and had to yell to get the attention of some maybe 18 year old guy who said "whats up?". "What's up?????????" I told him I needed my bread, utensils and dressing. He threw the utensils and the dressing in the bag then grabbed a whole loaf of bread and said here "my bad". Dude we are not friends. You are ten years my junior and you do not seem cool. You seem about as deuchy as the restaurant you work for. OK I was happy to get a loaf of bread I made sandwiches for days with it but the customer service was no where near desirable.
(1)Lucy W.
This Panera sucks...one star I gave is for the free wi-fi and the other star is for its location (proximity to Arsenal Center for the Arts, parking garage that is usually full but at least it's free). I'm all for the quick-service category of food and I usually am a Panera fan...fast service, decent food. I've been frequenting this Panera for years- it's always hit or miss with the service and the food here so I check in at this location every once in awhile, hoping they got their act together. The portions have gotten smaller, the prices higher (recently up'ed the "You Pick Two" combo costs), service worse (employees stuffing my food into a too-small greasy bag), waits longer as the location has gotten more popular (gym and other businesses nearby). The food was edible at least, even if it was smushed. Meh...I need to stop coming back here. Try Strip-T's on School St (across the street) instead.
(2)jorbi p.
Okay so chains generally suck unless they're called In n Out Burger, Popeyes or Bojangles. Panera is no exception. I don't care about your fancy faux-rustic decor. I don't care. I don't care because you are a terrible place to be. Your food is overpriced. It's McDonalds for people who shop at Old Navy. Okay I will grant you... some of their breads and pastries are pretty okay. I like the orange scone. This particular Panera is TERRIBLE. It might have some of the most inattentive employees on planet earth. I've had better food service at a prison cafeteria. I'm sitting here now, stealing internet from them. I went up to get a coffee. The friggin' MANAGER was on the phone. She looked at me. She ignored me. Kept blabbering away on the phone. Ugh. In the news today... North Korea's trying to start World War 3. If they succeed there will be one shining bright side to it... it will mean an end to Panera.
(1)Patricia O.
I stopped in here for the 1st time after shopping or not shopping at the Arsenal Mall. I have heard all about Panera but had never stopped in. Wow - I had a half of sandwhich and a cup of soup. It was served prompt and piping hot. I have no complaints. I find it hard to find a really good soup on the outside and their potato soup was to die for. I will go back here again soon and I cannot wait to try out some other yummy items.
(4)Allen B.
Don't bother. I have been working next door to Panera in Watertown for months now and have never gone in. In fact, never have gone into a Panera before. Being a Friday and the facts above, I decided to walk next door for a scone at 6:45am. There was one person in front of me ordering a dozen bagels and other doing various other things. Do you think that I could get something in 5 mins? Think again. The guy had to give his order for bagels from the start and no one offered any help. So much for Panera getting my business at all in the future - regardless of location. I'll keep my $2.59 for a scone and make them at home, and the flavors I want - w/o the sugar on top too!
(1)Michael R.
If you're into sodium (salt) you will get your minimum daily allowance with any sandwich that you purchase at Panera. The sodium in their entrees range from 1800 to 2300 mg per sandwich. They automatically add salt to every sandwich they make. If you want your blood pressure elevated, Panera is the place to go!
(1)Lauren P.
First of all, what the hell has happened to Panera in the past few years? Food quality is terrible and the prices are high. Every time I have gone to ANY Panera lately, my experience has been horrible. I came here for lunch one day, ordered a "you pick two" tuna sandwich and caesar salad. There was plastic in my tuna (maybe from the plastic bag it came in?) I brought it back and asked for more salad instead of another sandwich. They did not offer to give me my money back and the salad had old lettuce. Not going back there EVER!
(1)Chevin W.
Although I've never been here during lunch time, this is definitely an above average Panera. Most of the workers are friendly, seating is spacious and comfortable, and the food is usually decent. Lots of natural sunlight and window shades if it gets too sunny. I do wish the food was more consistent though, and the tables could be cleaned more frequently and more thoroughly. They should also extend their hours to at least 10 pm like other Paneras in the area.
(4)Ken M.
My mom puts a $25 gift card to Panera in my Christmas stocking every year. I had two laying around that still had small balances, so we decided to head out to get lunch today. This location gets pretty slammed on weekends and today was no exception. The dining area was messy and a bit dirty. The soup, sandwich and salad were fine. I do think the prices are a little high since the quality has slipped a bit in the past few years.
(3)J. B.
The only other Panera location I go to is in Needham, which far surpasses Watertown's location in term of quality and service (but not parking -- so many complaints about the parking here, but there's a huge garage right next door that you can usually find a spot in -- you just might have to walk down some stairs, definitely not the worst thing that will happen during your visit to this Panera). I only go to the Watertown Panera out of necessity (as in, I'm broke, hungry and have a gift card). Otherwise, I would not come here. If you place a to-go order here, be sure to check it before you leave, because they almost always get my order wrong. Once I ordered a turkey sandwich with pickles and avocado on it. First they said they couldn't put pickles on the sandwich, but it comes with one on the side. I said that the Needham location does it all the time (is it that hard to cut up a pickle spear? What do you mean you "can't"?). They said they'd do it, but when I got my sandwich, not only were there no pickles ON the sandwich, but there wasn't even one on the side, even though it was supposed to come with one! To top it off, the avocado was far from ripe. I'm not sure where they find their employees, but most of them are young men who seem a little rough around the edges and not pleased to be assembling sandwiches. Even on the rare instance that they get my sandwich order right, the ingredients are usually just sloppily thrown in between the bread and I basically have to re-build my sandwich before I eat it so it doesn't fall apart. Recently, I've stuck to ordering soups and salads with no special requests, because there's a better chance I'll get what I want.
(2)Will W.
WTF is up w/ people really sweating Panera these days? I think the place is terrible. I've lived in Watertown (w/in 1 mile of this location) for over 5 years and its brought me in twice. I gave it a second (and last) try recently and forked over more than $7 for a weird tasting Chicken Frontega Pannini. To make matters worse I do a little digging into this little treat and realize this sandwich is the rough equivalent to 1.5 Big Macs (calorie wise, but w/ 3 times the sodium for ~2x the price!!) as are most of the other items on their menu. Their bagels are tasteless crap too. Probably the best thing about this place is the large number of women who eat here and think they're being health conscious. Ha, laughable. Give me a BigMac or an Anna's Big Burrito any day.
(1)