half a sandwich and soup is a perfect lunch portion for me. add a cookie and the iced green tea (no refills) and I'm set. i like the small 2 seater booths.
(4)
Valerie M.
Oh Panera, how we love you! Your chewy, fresh cookies Your mac n cheese that we dream of Your bagels YOUR SANDWICHES Your everything We love you
(5)
Vicki S.
I have been too Paneras all over the U.S. because I love their food. This one has a beautiful view of the valley and mountain when you sit outside. The food here is always good, the problem is their lack of service. The staff is friendly, but slow as molasses and the younger high school age staff want to chit chat with their friends in line. They also need more staff in the morning. Took off a star for service.
(4)
Sheilah D.
I only wish there were no stars to reflect the horrible service this place delivers time and time again. Avoid it at all costs.
(1)
Myken A.
I used the Panera app to purchase dinner for my family night before last. Usually Panera is our go-to, even though this Panera is lacking in service, food quality, and competent employees from all the other Panera locations I've visited all over the country. In fact at this location, they always forget to ask what side we want with our meals. However night before last they forgot half of our entire order. So I called and spoke to a manager yesterday, who told me to come in and that they would replace our entire order. Her exact words were "ask for me and I'll take care of you." As soon as I came in, I could tell that I wasn't going to be "taken care of" First they had me stand against the wall to wait for the "manager" who made me wait for 10 minutes before she came to the counter. In fact she walked around the store eyeing me suspiciously before she even approached me. The other employees watched me and my son and whispered among themselves. When she approached me and I offered to show her the receipt, she proceeded to ring up the "missing" meal items, plus two more. I informed her that wasn't our entire order, and she began to tell me that she only intended to replace the "meals" we had ordered. Then another woman approached and stated she was the "general manager." She was rude and condescending from the moment she approached me. She made fun of me when I mispronounced one of the menu items we had ordered, and yelled at me at how they were going above and beyond what they were required to do because they replaced the meals that were missing. I wouldn't have even bothered coming in the store if they were simply going to "replace" the meals they had forgotten. That would have been a waste of my time and gas, I would have just called corporate and asked for a full refund. I admit I was frustrated. After I had been treated so rudely I told them that they had gone back in their word, and proceeded to tell them I was turning the incident in to corporate. They admitted repeatedly that they had agreed to replace our entire order, but then proceeded to argue that meant only the 4 meals. The manager, after mocking me, and smashing all of our food, proceeded to get up to my face and yell "I hope you never make a mistake lady!" I wasn't even angry at the mistake, I was angry at how I was treated because of their mistake. This is, unfortunately, a very typical Albuquerque attitude. I haven't met very many native residents of the area willing to own up to their own mistakes and make things right. Not only do I recommend not visiting this Panera, I also recommend not visiting Albuquerque in general. This was an unfortunate encounter, but it's not an isolated incident. Instead of just owning up to a mistake they knew they had made, they acted rude, condescending, and unprofessional.
(1)
Ashley E.
Ugggghhhhhhh...I have no clue why I loved Panera so much when I was in college. This was the first time I've been back since probably 2008 and it was super disappointing. We ordered a croissant. The girl behind the counter, apparently, didn't know what the eff a croissant is because she hovered over several different baked goods until we came over and pointed to what we were talking about. It seriously tasted like what I imagine cancer to taste like--pure chemicals. It wasn't flakey, buttery, or delicious. My coffee also tasted like ass. Not going to make that mistake again. Thanks, corporate America.
(1)
Quinn A.
I love Panera for a couple of reasons. First, they serve relatively healthy food, if you pick the right items on the menu. The bean soup, a couple of the sandwiches, forget about the bakery stuff. And dont fall into the salad trap. The dressing seriously diminishes the healthy aspect. They make a good latte. The people who work there are generally friendly. When I'm driving across country, I'll look for a Panera to grab some chow, because I know I can get fed without feeling like I ate a load of junky road food. However .... Not all Panera's are created equal. Some are corporate and accept the Panera rewards card. You swipe it every time you go in and eventually they offer you a free coffee or cookie or something like that. The Panera in Albuquerque does not accept the Panera card. A small detail, but for some reason its got me annoyed. While we're talking about this Panera in particular, let me also say that while the majority of the employees who work there are friendly, they are s l o w. I mean, really slow. And this weekend the lady who brought us our order was clearly annoyed that we had our (well behaved and lying quietly at our feet) dog on the patio. She made this big freaking dramatic production of leaning way over to pass the plates, then squealed a bit when the dog shifted her head. Okay, you're scared of dogs. I get it. But my dog was laying there like a rag, and nobody in a sane frame of mind would feel the slightest bit threatened by her. Get a grip. Drama queen had all the time in the world to coo and play with the baby at the next table. Next time we'll dress the dog up like a toddler and maybe we'll get better service. Something like that happens every time we go there. Its a big disappointment because I want to love Panera, but Panera doesn't hug me back. There you have my snarky reasons for only giving it 3 stars.
(3)
Johnny N.
Go to Jason's Deli down the street. Ordering was slow with the manager behind the counter. It tells me their understaffed. Their Fugi Apple Chicken came in an unusually small bowl. Not what I'm accustomed to seeing at Panera. My son's meal didn't come with a drink like it should. The server that brought out the food dropped my bread on the table and I had to remind him to bring me another piece. When I asked about the customary cookie that comes when the meal, the server responded with, "as of Wednesday we are known as Panera," and walks away. What does that mean?! The floors are dirty. The piece of bread that he back with to replace the one he dropped was cold. Not even room temperature. I expect a certain amount of professionalism when I walk into Panera. This one is the Walmart of Paneras. I'm deeply disappointed. I won't be coming back.
(1)
Lou P.
The apple chicken salad is top ranked in my book here! Grab a cookie and a hibiscus tea! Very refreshing in this hot dry weather.
(4)
Karen M.
Super disappointed. Ran in to get a gift card the day after Father's Day. I was told they ran out a couple of days ago and were expecting a shipment in a couple of days. I was then told I was welcome to go to another Panera do get a gift card. HUH?! Not the way it works. Then the gal at the counter tells me I can purchase the ready made packs of 5 $10 cards. HMMM but I only want a $20 card. I ask if she can open up the pack and just give me two. She asks her manager and of course I get a big fat no. In my opinion very poor management. This means they ran out of gift cards before Father's Day? Not poor management - really poor management. Shame on you Panera
(1)
Ashley W.
Had lunch here today and it certainly hit the spot! Ordered the pick two combo option, and got the half Sierra turkey sandwich with a Greek salad. The bread that the sandwich was served on, (Asiago Cheese Focaccia) was to die for! Tasted really fresh and soft--just hate when you bite in to a sandwich and it hurts the roof of your mouth because the bread is too hard. Service was good, but if you are in a hurry, you may want to pass. It took about 15 min to get our food, but it was definitely worth the wait. They have several great options on the menu and the ingredients are fresh and even include vegetarian options. Love that THEY bring the food to YOU... no standing in line or having to walk up and grab your own plate. Also, who doesn't love a place that gives a free cookie with every meal?! The ooey gooey chocolate chip deliciousness was the perfect sweet treat to end my meal with..Yum! If you're looking for a fairly quick, healthy fresh, sit down meal.. Paradise Cafe/Panera Bread is a great choice.
(4)
Cassidy L.
It's a chain. A chain that I remember being better than it is. That being said I have been here a few times and will tolerate a soup/grilled cheese sandwich if I have to eat lunch here. Usually the tomato is the best. I will get the coffee or if it's hot, I'll have a smoothie. That's about it. Nothing exciting. Get me excited about food in another way.
(2)
Dave D.
Hot chicken noodle soup in a bread bowl on a blustery, windy day. Can't beat that! This location is generally pretty good. They bring the food out quick and even if there's a line they get you through rapidly. Always love the free, fresh and warm chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Looking forward to warmer weather so we can sit outside on the patio.
(4)
Ricky M.
Everyone I talked to was ranting about Panera the other day... I had tried them in other states and thought it was pretty average well I decided to try it again except in Albuquerque. Well just like all the other locations Panera offers mediocre, overpriced, small sandwiches and salads but with a starbucks vibe and price. I mean there food isn't bad but just not really worth the price in my opinion. If I was out for lunch I would much rather go to Jimmy Johns across the parking lot.
(3)
Kim I.
As much as I LOVE the food and the variety.....the set up at both the Paseo Del Norte and the Uptown location are AWFUL for sitting down to have a quiet meal! The seating is literally elbow to asshole :-/ The soda machine at Uptown is right in the dining area, if you are the unlucky folks sitting next to the machine, chances are that you may get knocked by a random purse or ass. The food, the service, the price= all great! The seating= Not So good :-(
(3)
Amy B.
Pandera- Well, for a soup, sandwich, salad, and dessert place I have to give them 1 star for taking FOREVER for food to arrive. My daughter and I waited 20 minutes for our salads and sandwich. I finally had to ask someone to look for our order in the kitchen. I was told that the food was ready and just waiting to be delivered. I was pretty frustrated. Now to the food- it was very tasty. I ordered a half turkey sandwich and side Caesar salad. It was a healthy serving of turkey and the sourdough was very good. My salad had great flavor and I really liked the croutons and cheese. My daughter ordered the Grilled Chicken Caesar salad and she loved it. It was a huge salad! Both of our meals came with a chocolate chip cookie, which really hit the spot! It's too bad that the service was so incredibly slow. The person that helped me find my food was apologetic and friendly, though.
(3)
Bike Chaplain O.
Comfortable, friendly service. Good coffee and nosh. This spacious restaurant is poorly laid out. The areas near windows/light are not private and very loud. I wanted natural light, but the boisterous surrounding customers made it unpleasant. If a few hidden booths were available near the windows, I would give more stars. We are cautious to recommend this restaurant. Thanks for reading. The Bike Chaplain
(3)
Wes T.
Great sandwiches, but this place can be extremely popular (read: busy). Here's the scoop: if you want a great sandwich or salad, this is a good place to go. Fresh ingredients, lots of choices, and seasonal variety. But, if you're in any sort of a hurry, you might want to pass this place up. Not that the service is slow, it's just that the secret is out: the food's good. So, there are usually a lot of people in here, or in line to eat here. Be forewarned. Nice little patio area outside if you want to eat here. Lots of seating inside, and they're busy as little bees keeping the place wiped down.
(3)
Virginia D.
My sandwich was good but it had very little filling. What it had was delicious, but if there hadn't been some lettuce and tomato it would been like two slices of good bread and nothing more. The sandwich I ordered was the almond chicken. My companion had a turkey and bacon San that contained a normal amount of goodies and was satisfying.
(4)
Rand R.
Tasty, fresh sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods. A bit pricey, but worth it. Friendly, efficient service.
(4)
Clayton A.
I was up in what is no man's land for me (anything North of Jefferson, basically) and Yelped my way to this "bakery and cafe." I place the quotation marks because I'd say these words are a bit misleading, albeit not necessarily in a bad way. It's just that, I thought I was heading to some local spot, only to walk into what looked very much like the Panera I'd been to in Queens, New Yawk. I asked the cashier and she confirmed by suspicions, they're owned by Panera. Now, this didn't necessarily ruin anything for me, as I like Panera and don't completely hate chain restaurants, but my expectations quickly changed. I went from thinking I was going to get some fresh-baked goods and cool and unique little treats and resigned to getting bread and cookies that folks all over the States were getting as well. C'est la vie. I was pot committed as far as eating here so I opted for the soup and sandwich deal for $6.89. I got a ham and swiss sandwich and french onion soup, as well as a chocolate chip cookie. The sandwich was good, if lacking anything to make it stand out from something I could throw together at home. The french onion soup was tasty and had a good amount of mozzarella, so part of me wished I'd just order a cauldron of it. I'd consider going back for it, actually. The cookie seemed fresh out of a plastic wrapper and reminiscent of the type of cookies they sell in bodegas in the hood in NYC---which means it didn't really match the soup and bread in terms of ingredients or otherwise called into question the ingredients in everything I had. My wife had a soup and sandwich deal too and didn't offer any of her sandwich (tacaña!), but I did taste the soup, broccoli and cheddar, and found it on par with the cookie. She liked it though, so whatever. In the future, this business should just come clean, name itself Panera and let Burqueños know what they're really getting.
(3)
Jamie R.
This location by far has their act together better than the Westside one. And this Panera is what you expect from the chain: food is consistent, staff friendly, and service slow. Best thing, they've switched from pitiful little water "cups" to real size so when you like your H2O you no longer feel like a criminal for not ordering a pay for beverage. On my last visit, I was told you can ask for another cookie, so if you get to the end of your meal and just need a little more of that goodness, ask and you're supposed to get one! Soup in a bread bowl is the best thing on the menu, and paired with a salad makes a great lunch or dinner. The tomato soup is very creamy and has homemade croutons, or if French Onion is more your style, it's not too salty and the top of melted cheese has good flavor.
(4)
Becca P.
Yummy Food, warm and cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee. Not my favorite place for deserts (Thats Flying Star) but for a yummy lunch of salad and soup is a great. The coffee is better than Flying Star! I love this place and cant wait for the NW restaurant to open.
(4)
David E.
So I just moved to Madison and was hoping that I could find a Panera with service and food as good as this one. Good news! The one up here is just as good....no free cookie. I will miss this Panera. Great food and service!
(5)
Jennifer L.
So the only differences to me between this place and Panera bread is that Paradise gives you free cookies with your meals! Now I feel this free cookie is too "underdone chewy" but still a nice gesture. Also here they give you your food at your table whereas last time i was in a panera you have to go up to the counter to get it yourself. I love the u-pick two... Usually get a soup and half salad or soup and half sandwich. Many hours were spent in Panera breads while in college and dental school for me back in Illinois... I'm sure if I was in college now I'd be spending hours at paradise as well! I like the fuji apple chicken salad the best. I also really like their various soups, for example the chicken orzo. Nice that they offer low fat soups and label them as such. They give u a nice chunk of bread with the soups which I usually save to take home and use to make a sandwich the next day lol. Also on the bakery side their bagels are great and their veggie cream cheese is da bombbb! I'm not sure if they sell them here but the muffin tops are really good from Panera back home! The prices are a little above average but I feel good quality for a chain fast food alternative restaurant...and free wifi I believe.
(4)
Steve M.
The usual Panera experience, wholesome sandwhiches, soups, salads...and cookies! This is a newer store that is on its game.
(4)
Migsy O.
This is not food people, this is not food. People, my people, this is not food. Food, real food, is prepared with love. I find myself so often disparaging chain restaurants that I often even tune myself out, so boring and predicatable has my diatribe become. Yet it only took one stop here at this soul-crushing eatery to completely re-invigorate my profound loathing of corporate food. I find myself, a lover of words, at a complete loss to describe the hopelessness and dejection that waited for me at Panera Bread. Is there any point in even describing the food to you? Or the soulless service? It's pure shit, even good ingredients like raw spinach are miraculously transformed into pure shit by this corporation. I fucking hate this place, and I swear to you now I will never, ever eat here again. I'm so fucking pissed they've found their way into Nob Hill . . . do you see what's happening to our neighborhood?
(1)
Monica F.
I usually enjoy Panera Bread selections. This is the first time I have gotten a salad with bad greens at any Panera location. I did not feel like picking through & removing slimey, wilted greens. I took the salad back to the kitchen. I hope that the management gets a better handle on quality control of their produce. The free chocolate chip cookie did not compensate for the poor quality salad. In their defense, they asked me if I wanted to take something home or remake the salad, but I had lost my appetite. I will not likely visit this location again.
(2)
Melissa J.
I just had lunch at this location and I was terribly disappointed. The food was good but the service was terrible. First, let me address the food experience. I had the broccoli cheddar soup and 1/2 tuna sandwich. The soup was sadly, mildly warm; borderline cool. My sandwich on the other hand, was delicious. Now for the customer service...awful. The woman who took my order made little eye contact and gave off the impression she did not enjoy her job. Furthermore, after our food came, the friend I went with received a stale piece of bread and when we asked one of the employees for another, the employee RUDELY took the piece of bread and then RUDELY brought back a new piece. In fact, she practically threw it on the table. Overall, the food was decent but the service was disastrous. Very disappointed.
(2)
Lisa R.
This place is delicious. I just had the biggest craving for chocolate chip cookies, and was told about Paradise to get my fix. VOILA, the cookies are moist and fresh. The ambiance is fun, and the place is kid friendly.
(4)
DC F.
If you love Panera Cafe, then you will absolutely LOVE Paradise Bakery & Cafe as well! I'm not sure if they are owned by the same company but the menu and layout of the restaurants are the exact same. I always order from the pick-2 or pick-3 menu because I am able to mix & match as I please. It's a great way to try new items in a smaller portion!
(5)
Lindsey A.
This place is really good. It is kid friendly also which is great. We always see quite a few other toddlers when we bring our 2 year old here. They have great sandwiches, the place is very nice inside and I loved the chinese chicken salad. The kids meals also come with a tube of yogurt which my son loved. Oh and everyone gets a delicious chocolate chip cookie with their meal! One problem is that we once got take-out from here and my salad was wilted as if it was previously frozen at the back of the fridge or something. It made me sad since the food was always good when we went in to eat there.
(3)
Carol H.
I had the strawberry poppyseed and chicken salad and I must say it was amazing. The woman in line behind me said she is addicted to the great food at this place. This was my first time to eat here and I will definitely be back.
(5)
Sorry, we don't have Q&A for this restaurant.
Sorry, No Coupons available for this restaurant.
Address :6500 Holly Avenue NE
Albuquerque, NM, 87113
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Brunch Bike Parking : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Noise Level : Quiet Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No
SexyChicken 1.
half a sandwich and soup is a perfect lunch portion for me. add a cookie and the iced green tea (no refills) and I'm set. i like the small 2 seater booths.
(4)Valerie M.
Oh Panera, how we love you! Your chewy, fresh cookies Your mac n cheese that we dream of Your bagels YOUR SANDWICHES Your everything We love you
(5)Vicki S.
I have been too Paneras all over the U.S. because I love their food. This one has a beautiful view of the valley and mountain when you sit outside. The food here is always good, the problem is their lack of service. The staff is friendly, but slow as molasses and the younger high school age staff want to chit chat with their friends in line. They also need more staff in the morning. Took off a star for service.
(4)Sheilah D.
I only wish there were no stars to reflect the horrible service this place delivers time and time again. Avoid it at all costs.
(1)Myken A.
I used the Panera app to purchase dinner for my family night before last. Usually Panera is our go-to, even though this Panera is lacking in service, food quality, and competent employees from all the other Panera locations I've visited all over the country. In fact at this location, they always forget to ask what side we want with our meals. However night before last they forgot half of our entire order. So I called and spoke to a manager yesterday, who told me to come in and that they would replace our entire order. Her exact words were "ask for me and I'll take care of you." As soon as I came in, I could tell that I wasn't going to be "taken care of" First they had me stand against the wall to wait for the "manager" who made me wait for 10 minutes before she came to the counter. In fact she walked around the store eyeing me suspiciously before she even approached me. The other employees watched me and my son and whispered among themselves. When she approached me and I offered to show her the receipt, she proceeded to ring up the "missing" meal items, plus two more. I informed her that wasn't our entire order, and she began to tell me that she only intended to replace the "meals" we had ordered. Then another woman approached and stated she was the "general manager." She was rude and condescending from the moment she approached me. She made fun of me when I mispronounced one of the menu items we had ordered, and yelled at me at how they were going above and beyond what they were required to do because they replaced the meals that were missing. I wouldn't have even bothered coming in the store if they were simply going to "replace" the meals they had forgotten. That would have been a waste of my time and gas, I would have just called corporate and asked for a full refund. I admit I was frustrated. After I had been treated so rudely I told them that they had gone back in their word, and proceeded to tell them I was turning the incident in to corporate. They admitted repeatedly that they had agreed to replace our entire order, but then proceeded to argue that meant only the 4 meals. The manager, after mocking me, and smashing all of our food, proceeded to get up to my face and yell "I hope you never make a mistake lady!" I wasn't even angry at the mistake, I was angry at how I was treated because of their mistake. This is, unfortunately, a very typical Albuquerque attitude. I haven't met very many native residents of the area willing to own up to their own mistakes and make things right. Not only do I recommend not visiting this Panera, I also recommend not visiting Albuquerque in general. This was an unfortunate encounter, but it's not an isolated incident. Instead of just owning up to a mistake they knew they had made, they acted rude, condescending, and unprofessional.
(1)Ashley E.
Ugggghhhhhhh...I have no clue why I loved Panera so much when I was in college. This was the first time I've been back since probably 2008 and it was super disappointing. We ordered a croissant. The girl behind the counter, apparently, didn't know what the eff a croissant is because she hovered over several different baked goods until we came over and pointed to what we were talking about. It seriously tasted like what I imagine cancer to taste like--pure chemicals. It wasn't flakey, buttery, or delicious. My coffee also tasted like ass. Not going to make that mistake again. Thanks, corporate America.
(1)Quinn A.
I love Panera for a couple of reasons. First, they serve relatively healthy food, if you pick the right items on the menu. The bean soup, a couple of the sandwiches, forget about the bakery stuff. And dont fall into the salad trap. The dressing seriously diminishes the healthy aspect. They make a good latte. The people who work there are generally friendly. When I'm driving across country, I'll look for a Panera to grab some chow, because I know I can get fed without feeling like I ate a load of junky road food. However .... Not all Panera's are created equal. Some are corporate and accept the Panera rewards card. You swipe it every time you go in and eventually they offer you a free coffee or cookie or something like that. The Panera in Albuquerque does not accept the Panera card. A small detail, but for some reason its got me annoyed. While we're talking about this Panera in particular, let me also say that while the majority of the employees who work there are friendly, they are s l o w. I mean, really slow. And this weekend the lady who brought us our order was clearly annoyed that we had our (well behaved and lying quietly at our feet) dog on the patio. She made this big freaking dramatic production of leaning way over to pass the plates, then squealed a bit when the dog shifted her head. Okay, you're scared of dogs. I get it. But my dog was laying there like a rag, and nobody in a sane frame of mind would feel the slightest bit threatened by her. Get a grip. Drama queen had all the time in the world to coo and play with the baby at the next table. Next time we'll dress the dog up like a toddler and maybe we'll get better service. Something like that happens every time we go there. Its a big disappointment because I want to love Panera, but Panera doesn't hug me back. There you have my snarky reasons for only giving it 3 stars.
(3)Johnny N.
Go to Jason's Deli down the street. Ordering was slow with the manager behind the counter. It tells me their understaffed. Their Fugi Apple Chicken came in an unusually small bowl. Not what I'm accustomed to seeing at Panera. My son's meal didn't come with a drink like it should. The server that brought out the food dropped my bread on the table and I had to remind him to bring me another piece. When I asked about the customary cookie that comes when the meal, the server responded with, "as of Wednesday we are known as Panera," and walks away. What does that mean?! The floors are dirty. The piece of bread that he back with to replace the one he dropped was cold. Not even room temperature. I expect a certain amount of professionalism when I walk into Panera. This one is the Walmart of Paneras. I'm deeply disappointed. I won't be coming back.
(1)Lou P.
The apple chicken salad is top ranked in my book here! Grab a cookie and a hibiscus tea! Very refreshing in this hot dry weather.
(4)Karen M.
Super disappointed. Ran in to get a gift card the day after Father's Day. I was told they ran out a couple of days ago and were expecting a shipment in a couple of days. I was then told I was welcome to go to another Panera do get a gift card. HUH?! Not the way it works. Then the gal at the counter tells me I can purchase the ready made packs of 5 $10 cards. HMMM but I only want a $20 card. I ask if she can open up the pack and just give me two. She asks her manager and of course I get a big fat no. In my opinion very poor management. This means they ran out of gift cards before Father's Day? Not poor management - really poor management. Shame on you Panera
(1)Ashley W.
Had lunch here today and it certainly hit the spot! Ordered the pick two combo option, and got the half Sierra turkey sandwich with a Greek salad. The bread that the sandwich was served on, (Asiago Cheese Focaccia) was to die for! Tasted really fresh and soft--just hate when you bite in to a sandwich and it hurts the roof of your mouth because the bread is too hard. Service was good, but if you are in a hurry, you may want to pass. It took about 15 min to get our food, but it was definitely worth the wait. They have several great options on the menu and the ingredients are fresh and even include vegetarian options. Love that THEY bring the food to YOU... no standing in line or having to walk up and grab your own plate. Also, who doesn't love a place that gives a free cookie with every meal?! The ooey gooey chocolate chip deliciousness was the perfect sweet treat to end my meal with..Yum! If you're looking for a fairly quick, healthy fresh, sit down meal.. Paradise Cafe/Panera Bread is a great choice.
(4)Cassidy L.
It's a chain. A chain that I remember being better than it is. That being said I have been here a few times and will tolerate a soup/grilled cheese sandwich if I have to eat lunch here. Usually the tomato is the best. I will get the coffee or if it's hot, I'll have a smoothie. That's about it. Nothing exciting. Get me excited about food in another way.
(2)Dave D.
Hot chicken noodle soup in a bread bowl on a blustery, windy day. Can't beat that! This location is generally pretty good. They bring the food out quick and even if there's a line they get you through rapidly. Always love the free, fresh and warm chocolate chip cookies for dessert. Looking forward to warmer weather so we can sit outside on the patio.
(4)Ricky M.
Everyone I talked to was ranting about Panera the other day... I had tried them in other states and thought it was pretty average well I decided to try it again except in Albuquerque. Well just like all the other locations Panera offers mediocre, overpriced, small sandwiches and salads but with a starbucks vibe and price. I mean there food isn't bad but just not really worth the price in my opinion. If I was out for lunch I would much rather go to Jimmy Johns across the parking lot.
(3)Kim I.
As much as I LOVE the food and the variety.....the set up at both the Paseo Del Norte and the Uptown location are AWFUL for sitting down to have a quiet meal! The seating is literally elbow to asshole :-/ The soda machine at Uptown is right in the dining area, if you are the unlucky folks sitting next to the machine, chances are that you may get knocked by a random purse or ass. The food, the service, the price= all great! The seating= Not So good :-(
(3)Amy B.
Pandera- Well, for a soup, sandwich, salad, and dessert place I have to give them 1 star for taking FOREVER for food to arrive. My daughter and I waited 20 minutes for our salads and sandwich. I finally had to ask someone to look for our order in the kitchen. I was told that the food was ready and just waiting to be delivered. I was pretty frustrated. Now to the food- it was very tasty. I ordered a half turkey sandwich and side Caesar salad. It was a healthy serving of turkey and the sourdough was very good. My salad had great flavor and I really liked the croutons and cheese. My daughter ordered the Grilled Chicken Caesar salad and she loved it. It was a huge salad! Both of our meals came with a chocolate chip cookie, which really hit the spot! It's too bad that the service was so incredibly slow. The person that helped me find my food was apologetic and friendly, though.
(3)Bike Chaplain O.
Comfortable, friendly service. Good coffee and nosh. This spacious restaurant is poorly laid out. The areas near windows/light are not private and very loud. I wanted natural light, but the boisterous surrounding customers made it unpleasant. If a few hidden booths were available near the windows, I would give more stars. We are cautious to recommend this restaurant. Thanks for reading. The Bike Chaplain
(3)Wes T.
Great sandwiches, but this place can be extremely popular (read: busy). Here's the scoop: if you want a great sandwich or salad, this is a good place to go. Fresh ingredients, lots of choices, and seasonal variety. But, if you're in any sort of a hurry, you might want to pass this place up. Not that the service is slow, it's just that the secret is out: the food's good. So, there are usually a lot of people in here, or in line to eat here. Be forewarned. Nice little patio area outside if you want to eat here. Lots of seating inside, and they're busy as little bees keeping the place wiped down.
(3)Virginia D.
My sandwich was good but it had very little filling. What it had was delicious, but if there hadn't been some lettuce and tomato it would been like two slices of good bread and nothing more. The sandwich I ordered was the almond chicken. My companion had a turkey and bacon San that contained a normal amount of goodies and was satisfying.
(4)Rand R.
Tasty, fresh sandwiches, salads, soups and baked goods. A bit pricey, but worth it. Friendly, efficient service.
(4)Clayton A.
I was up in what is no man's land for me (anything North of Jefferson, basically) and Yelped my way to this "bakery and cafe." I place the quotation marks because I'd say these words are a bit misleading, albeit not necessarily in a bad way. It's just that, I thought I was heading to some local spot, only to walk into what looked very much like the Panera I'd been to in Queens, New Yawk. I asked the cashier and she confirmed by suspicions, they're owned by Panera. Now, this didn't necessarily ruin anything for me, as I like Panera and don't completely hate chain restaurants, but my expectations quickly changed. I went from thinking I was going to get some fresh-baked goods and cool and unique little treats and resigned to getting bread and cookies that folks all over the States were getting as well. C'est la vie. I was pot committed as far as eating here so I opted for the soup and sandwich deal for $6.89. I got a ham and swiss sandwich and french onion soup, as well as a chocolate chip cookie. The sandwich was good, if lacking anything to make it stand out from something I could throw together at home. The french onion soup was tasty and had a good amount of mozzarella, so part of me wished I'd just order a cauldron of it. I'd consider going back for it, actually. The cookie seemed fresh out of a plastic wrapper and reminiscent of the type of cookies they sell in bodegas in the hood in NYC---which means it didn't really match the soup and bread in terms of ingredients or otherwise called into question the ingredients in everything I had. My wife had a soup and sandwich deal too and didn't offer any of her sandwich (tacaña!), but I did taste the soup, broccoli and cheddar, and found it on par with the cookie. She liked it though, so whatever. In the future, this business should just come clean, name itself Panera and let Burqueños know what they're really getting.
(3)Jamie R.
This location by far has their act together better than the Westside one. And this Panera is what you expect from the chain: food is consistent, staff friendly, and service slow. Best thing, they've switched from pitiful little water "cups" to real size so when you like your H2O you no longer feel like a criminal for not ordering a pay for beverage. On my last visit, I was told you can ask for another cookie, so if you get to the end of your meal and just need a little more of that goodness, ask and you're supposed to get one! Soup in a bread bowl is the best thing on the menu, and paired with a salad makes a great lunch or dinner. The tomato soup is very creamy and has homemade croutons, or if French Onion is more your style, it's not too salty and the top of melted cheese has good flavor.
(4)Becca P.
Yummy Food, warm and cozy atmosphere and delicious coffee. Not my favorite place for deserts (Thats Flying Star) but for a yummy lunch of salad and soup is a great. The coffee is better than Flying Star! I love this place and cant wait for the NW restaurant to open.
(4)David E.
So I just moved to Madison and was hoping that I could find a Panera with service and food as good as this one. Good news! The one up here is just as good....no free cookie. I will miss this Panera. Great food and service!
(5)Jennifer L.
So the only differences to me between this place and Panera bread is that Paradise gives you free cookies with your meals! Now I feel this free cookie is too "underdone chewy" but still a nice gesture. Also here they give you your food at your table whereas last time i was in a panera you have to go up to the counter to get it yourself. I love the u-pick two... Usually get a soup and half salad or soup and half sandwich. Many hours were spent in Panera breads while in college and dental school for me back in Illinois... I'm sure if I was in college now I'd be spending hours at paradise as well! I like the fuji apple chicken salad the best. I also really like their various soups, for example the chicken orzo. Nice that they offer low fat soups and label them as such. They give u a nice chunk of bread with the soups which I usually save to take home and use to make a sandwich the next day lol. Also on the bakery side their bagels are great and their veggie cream cheese is da bombbb! I'm not sure if they sell them here but the muffin tops are really good from Panera back home! The prices are a little above average but I feel good quality for a chain fast food alternative restaurant...and free wifi I believe.
(4)Steve M.
The usual Panera experience, wholesome sandwhiches, soups, salads...and cookies! This is a newer store that is on its game.
(4)Migsy O.
This is not food people, this is not food. People, my people, this is not food. Food, real food, is prepared with love. I find myself so often disparaging chain restaurants that I often even tune myself out, so boring and predicatable has my diatribe become. Yet it only took one stop here at this soul-crushing eatery to completely re-invigorate my profound loathing of corporate food. I find myself, a lover of words, at a complete loss to describe the hopelessness and dejection that waited for me at Panera Bread. Is there any point in even describing the food to you? Or the soulless service? It's pure shit, even good ingredients like raw spinach are miraculously transformed into pure shit by this corporation. I fucking hate this place, and I swear to you now I will never, ever eat here again. I'm so fucking pissed they've found their way into Nob Hill . . . do you see what's happening to our neighborhood?
(1)Monica F.
I usually enjoy Panera Bread selections. This is the first time I have gotten a salad with bad greens at any Panera location. I did not feel like picking through & removing slimey, wilted greens. I took the salad back to the kitchen. I hope that the management gets a better handle on quality control of their produce. The free chocolate chip cookie did not compensate for the poor quality salad. In their defense, they asked me if I wanted to take something home or remake the salad, but I had lost my appetite. I will not likely visit this location again.
(2)Melissa J.
I just had lunch at this location and I was terribly disappointed. The food was good but the service was terrible. First, let me address the food experience. I had the broccoli cheddar soup and 1/2 tuna sandwich. The soup was sadly, mildly warm; borderline cool. My sandwich on the other hand, was delicious. Now for the customer service...awful. The woman who took my order made little eye contact and gave off the impression she did not enjoy her job. Furthermore, after our food came, the friend I went with received a stale piece of bread and when we asked one of the employees for another, the employee RUDELY took the piece of bread and then RUDELY brought back a new piece. In fact, she practically threw it on the table. Overall, the food was decent but the service was disastrous. Very disappointed.
(2)Lisa R.
This place is delicious. I just had the biggest craving for chocolate chip cookies, and was told about Paradise to get my fix. VOILA, the cookies are moist and fresh. The ambiance is fun, and the place is kid friendly.
(4)DC F.
If you love Panera Cafe, then you will absolutely LOVE Paradise Bakery & Cafe as well! I'm not sure if they are owned by the same company but the menu and layout of the restaurants are the exact same. I always order from the pick-2 or pick-3 menu because I am able to mix & match as I please. It's a great way to try new items in a smaller portion!
(5)Lindsey A.
This place is really good. It is kid friendly also which is great. We always see quite a few other toddlers when we bring our 2 year old here. They have great sandwiches, the place is very nice inside and I loved the chinese chicken salad. The kids meals also come with a tube of yogurt which my son loved. Oh and everyone gets a delicious chocolate chip cookie with their meal! One problem is that we once got take-out from here and my salad was wilted as if it was previously frozen at the back of the fridge or something. It made me sad since the food was always good when we went in to eat there.
(3)Carol H.
I had the strawberry poppyseed and chicken salad and I must say it was amazing. The woman in line behind me said she is addicted to the great food at this place. This was my first time to eat here and I will definitely be back.
(5)