This is a very friendly location. I was there early in the morning and despite long lines the staff was very friendly and enthusiastic. I had the quinoa hot cereal with sliced almonds. It was fantastic. They also have lots of plug which came in handy as I needed to charge up my phone.
(4)
Corey W.
Stood in line for 5 minutes at the register, 2 employees saw me and walked to the kitchen as I stood there waiting to order. This was at 2:35 on August 31st. I decided to go somewhere else as I would still be waiting in line!
(1)
Anjelica N.
Panera launched their Rapid Pick-Up option on the online ordering options awhile ago but I've only really utilized it recently. Spending the overwhelming majority of my lunch breaks in my office, getting lunch from the 2 cafes in my building gets pretty tedious and bland really quicky... but it's quick and convenient. Luckily, Panera's Rapid Pick-Up is almost just as quick and convenient...there's also the added bonus of getting a quick walk outdoors to break up my day. As for the food, everything is as good as always. They don't skimp on portions and give you all the utensils and napkins you'll need... you just walk in, find your name/bag and walk-out. It's also super fun when you walk in a peak lunch hours and there's a gigantic line...and you just grab your bag and scoot. I've seen the look on people's faces sometimes and it clearly reads, "AH - why didn't I think of that?!?"
(4)
Joel L.
This location is consistent with others. Service is friendly and quick.
(4)
Marcus F.
I'm usually not one to write a review about a corporate chain restaurant, however I believe that Panera Bread on East 6th Downtown has become more of a hub for people to network, catch up on work, and relax. The ambience is very soothing, a fireplace is in the center of the dining room and floor to ceiling windows line the restaurant so you're able to get a nice view of the hustle and bustle of the city or 'people watching'. The service at this location has been hit and miss, however overall I believe that most of the employees are helpful and friendly. Any-who, the usual things I get are: * Power Chicken Salad - Very citrusy from the lemon juice. Tangy hummus flavor. Good portion of chicken and salad. *Thai Salad - Almonds give this dish a crunchy texture, and they give you a generous amount of chicken. * Avocado Salad - Surprisingly I enjoy this salad despite not enjoying avocados. * Thai Flatbread - Not my favorite menu option, my feelings were so-so. I believe that this particular item should be rethought. Maybe a thinner flatbread? * Broccoli and Cheddar soup with Bread Bowl - Quite possibly my favorite. The bread bowl could be less tough. Overall I would say that I enjoy this combination. With this particular location a lot of obnoxious people come in, so it's hard to study at times with people yelling at each other.
(2)
Lindsey W.
Very dirty! I don't recommend it at all. For example, the lack of food preparation. Just save your time.
(1)
Teri D.
If you're staying or working downtown then this is a good spot to get some cheaper grub than some other places (especially the hotel restaurant). Ordered a bagel wish schmear and a coffee. Hubs ordered a scone, OJ, and a bacon egg and cheese sandwich. Now we get down to brass tacks. Food wasn't bad BUT (you saw this one coming, right?) the guy at the register couldn't remember how to spell hubs name (it's only got 4 letters to it buddy), didn't give me a cup for my coffee (I had to go find one behind the counter myself), they no longer have smoked salmon cream cheese (sniffle) and they didn't slice my bagel the way I wanted. Oh well...stuff happens but all of this for under $15? I'm good!
(3)
Samantha S.
Workers late. Did not open on time. In morning, woman opened door and customer asked, "are you open?" The worker replied, "we are now..."
(2)
Liz S.
Can't you give a place less than 1 star?? Seriously though, HORRENDOUS service. I ordered, waited patiently for 15 minutes (while my friend was chowing down her food after 5 minutes of waiting) and was told they had forgotten about me after I had to go back up there to remind them... After another 10 minutes of waiting (literally for soup and pasta, that is pre-made because it's Panera...) I went to go get a refund. No apologies, and they were actually upset with ME for getting a refund. They wanted to give me the food almost 30 minutes later, and not think anything of it... Also, $10 for soup/pasta, and asking for my refund, I was told it would be 7-10 days for my refund to show... so quick to debit, so slow to credit. This is why people go LOCAL!! (Unfortunately on a Sunday, everywhere else was closed... :()
(1)
Isaiah F.
This review is a little biased and is due to things that they may not have planned for. First when we walked in at 10:45 on a Sunday morning they had ZERO bagels left. Not a single one. It was the weekend of the Flying Pig so I'm sure it was busier earlier but you need to plan for that. Second, after we ordered our food I sat and watched as six people who ordered after me all got their food. All I ordered was two breakfast sandwiches. Not the world, not the whole menu, just two sandwiches. Food was decent just like Panera normally is but to wait 15 minutes when it's not busy for two sandwiches. They didn't even start our order until I walked up to the counter and asked if it was coming out soon. I'm not your baby sitter, I'm a customer.
(2)
Justin R.
I've visited this same Panera in downtown Cincinnati 3 times one year apart for each visit. Why did I come back s third time? It's the most disorganized restaurant I've been to. 30 minutes this time for a bowl of oatmeal . I guess it's a low option market on a Sunday morning so this place gets more business than it deserves . Food quality is fine. When you get it .
(2)
Ian R.
Came in here around dinner time, and it wasn't too busy. However, the staff that was working at the time were amazingly polite and nice, and all of them had smiles on their faces. I love seeing that when I walk into a business, because it makes you feel welcome and at home. Ordered a salad and a smoothie and was in and out in about 5 minutes,
(5)
Danae B.
I am absolutely addicted to Panera. So we headed there for a late lunch on new year's eve and it wasn't crowded, but they could have used about three other people working. I will give them definite props for the store layout. I noticed that it seemed like they made it kind of hard for people that aren't patroning Panera to just wander around in there. It is a cafeteria based place so the food is exactly how it is at every other Panera. I wish this place would have opened before we moved out to the 'Burbs!
(5)
Neil P.
Poor service even at 11am, before the lunch rush. When placing my order I asked if the pasta dish was vegetarian. The employee taking my order did not know (which was fine she seemed new) but she asked another employee that had a very abrupt matter-of-fact response that was off putting. Also asked if Iced Coffee refills were free if I stayed. The same matter-of-fact responding employee asked if I was eating here (I already said I was she didn't seem to listen). I said I was eating here and I was answered with "Soooo, Yeah" Sorry asking. I didn't know there was a Panera Natsi. The clientele is mostly white collars from the neighboring office buildings for lunch. A few questionable characters which I guess are expected being in downtown. One guy in particular who couldn't stop cursing on the cell phone long enough to register that he was even in a bakery. Or that he was standing right next to on top of me as I was ordering, personal space? And there are children around, earmuffs, that's all you have to say. The food was average. Ordered a Tomato and Mozz Ciabatta. There was some sundried tomato pesto on it that was kind of sour. The sandwich itself had an interesting mixture of being burnt and cold. Cold because they forgot the pasta side dish that I ordered and the sandwich sat out on the counter while they apparently microwaved the pasta and added an extra dose of olive oil. That's healthy right? I chose this place to get lunch and sit and study for a while. There was tons of seating available at 11 and around 12:30 (lunch rush) it did get busy but there were still spots and most importantly power outlets available. I made a friend who watched my laptop and headphones while I refilled my iced coffee (Soooo. Thanks, rude lady), consoled crying children who kept asking "Why does that man say those things, daddy?", and used the restroom (clean). If I was alone I'd be concerned about leaving my stuff unattended. The bar-style seating with power outlets is up against the front window and has a straight shot to the exit. Basically people can see your laptop from the street and walk right in grab it and walk right out before anyone realizes what's going on. So single studiers be aware. My search for the perfect study spot continues but this place will work in a pinch.
(2)
Tim G.
Awesome spot and my first Panera Bread experience. They are conveniently located in Fountain Square. Bonus points for free wifi and friendly staff. I'm working away on my laptop with a hot chocolate to warm me up on a cold day.
(4)
Bethany S.
This is one of those few nationwide chains I'm a fan of. Their food is just delicious and has some relatively healthy options for fast food. Our office orders bagels from Panera regularly, and I adore the cinnamon crunch ones especially. With hazelnut cream cheese, yum. At this particular store, my co-worker and I were stopping by to grab some dinner to go. We both wanted the same thing and thought it would be easier to order 2 of each (2 spinach salads and two black bean soups) but apparently this was very difficult to do on the cash register, because at first they gave us the wrong soup. But it didn't take long to get corrected, and we were on our way. Soup and salad were both fresh, with quality ingredients, and delicious. I need to remember to get the spinach salad again the next time I'm at a Panera, if I can pass by the bagels and muffins.
(4)
Elizabeth L.
I know I'm super lame for reviewing a nation-wide chain, but like how I start all my chain reviews, "not all chains are created equal." For its location-- basically on Fountain Square-- it's a little gem of a place to just RELAX from the hustle and bustle of downtowners (of what hustle and bustle downtown even gets). If you haven't realized, other than the Westin lobby, there is no where near Fountain Square to hide away from inclimate weather without being judged for entering except this Panera. It's clean, and it's super spacious (my favorite part). Sit by the fire or the huge windows and watch the snow fall or people walking by. But as a chain, yes, I assume the food can't get much better or worse than your standard Panera. I'd come here to read/study/do work all the time with the abundant amount of tables and outlets, but I'm too proud to choose Panera over local. And that's the honest truth.
(4)
Stephen G.
15 years in America and I have never been to a White Castle. It's an achievement I am proud of. More recently though I was becoming ashamed I had never been to a Panera either. Since the chain's entry into the busy downtown Cincinnati market - right near bustling Fountain Square - my wife has been a massive fan. She swears by them... and by that I don't mean she stands on the sidewalk and cusses loudly in their general direction. Rather she is impressed by their healthy offerings, a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastas and soups that aren't too heavy on either the wallet or the heart. She finally got me in the place a little while ago. The interior surprised me, the plush surroundings, seating, fireplace and layout belying the extraordinarily ugly architecture of the exterior. You place your order and pay at one counter then pick your food up at another counter. Step one was fine. Step two was a little more difficult because the bizarre 'corridor' you wait in is poorly designed resulting in too many people jostling for space in too small an area. To make matters worse the space is also shared with the drinks dispenser and condiments resulting in even more shoulder-to-shoulder barging.in my opinion it all needs a bit of a rethink. We were there at a relatively quiet time of the afternoon - I dread to imagine what it must be like at busy periods like breakfast or lunch. It's a shame because the food itself is very tasty, representing good value for money. I opted for a "pick 2" deal, and enjoyed a superb Asian salad twinned with a succulent chicken panini. $9 for the pair... not too shabby at all. I can understand why Panera is so popular. It's streets ahead of most other fast food you can get, the made-to-order aspect way healthier and more satisfying than something which has been sitting around under a heat lamp for a while. The layout in this branch was peculiar and a permanent whistle/buzzing noise from something electrical in the premises proved to be extremely distracting and irritating for our entire visit, but the food made up for it. I will go back but pick my time carefully so I don't have to linger - or jostle with other diners - too long in "the corridor of doom"
(3)
Amnon F.
The most inconsistent Panera branch I ever saw. I always order the same thing, Greek with shrimp, never got it the same way twice! Great crew though, working hard to make it right.
(2)
Tracey J.
Panera Bread downtown- count me in. That long early morning meeting at work is a lot more bearable with strawberry cream scone or a cinnamon crunch bagel with honey walnut cream cheese. The downtown location is large and laid out so you can order and pick up in a breeze for that quick pre-work bite. On the weekends, it's a great place to meet up with friends over soup, salad and sandwiches. If you're going solo, you can fire up your favorite device with their wi-fi and and get caught up on all the social media goings-ons, or enjoy a good book. The staff are friendly and efficient. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable, especially in front of the fireplaces. Nice to see one of the comforts of the 'burbs in the center of town.
(4)
David M.
Most have probably had Panera so I won't waste time on the food situation (although Panera has great food). This location, being right off of Fountain Square, is always packed for weekday lunches. That being said, they usually have 5 or 6 cashiers moving people through very quickly. It still takes a little longer than usual to get your food but this location can handle a rush no problem. It also has a few outdoor spots if its nice and you are lucky enough to grab one. Panera can be healthy, is usually reliable, and this location is a a great work-lunch destination.
(4)
Paige M.
Welcome Panera! It's exciting to have a new chain restaurant open Downtown that's not a sports bar. I'm also thrilled not to have to drive out to the 'burbs to grab one of their delicious salads. Located along the bustling intersection of Sixth and Vine, I visited Panera on opening day and was impressed with the layout. Other stores have a model that tends to bottleneck during mealtime. Downtown Panera has the bakery section angled so that customers can gawk at the pastries and others who are ready to order can pass by to order on the right. The areas for the queue are conveniently marked, and the menus can be read from any place that you're standing in line. The pick up and dining areas are around the corner. This keeps customers moving who are on the go, and gives the more leisurely diner a private side area to enjoy their meal. Open early for breakfast, until 9PM during the week and 7PM on weekends, Panera is a much needed staple for the urban appetite. Price per person: $10.00
(4)
Ricky M.
Very refreshing to have a panera location Downtown. I was a tad hesitant since for years this former Arby's location has been a homeless hangout. My visit was without incident. Great helpful staff. Quick service. And great environment.
(4)
Erica M.
I've been impressed with the service in the half-dozen times I've visited so far. Friendly, responsive staff make this more than a fast-ish-food location... it's a pleasant eating experience. I love the layout and the location is perfect. Other than that: it's a Panera.
(4)
SaVon S.
I love panera and the food but this location has the worst service I have ever witnessed.
(1)
Lauren A.
This is one of the nicer Paneras I've been to. Very large and clean (especially for being in the middle of a big city). The staff was friendly and our food was perfect, no deviance from the usual Panera products, but it was quick to come out. No complaints here!
(4)
Louise D.
When you're from Europe, one of the tricky things about living abroad is finding high quality bread. Luckily there are a few great bakeries in Cincinnati, so we don't suffer too much (thank you Blue Oven, and even Kroger Newport with your fresh breads that we can slice ourselves!). Panera doesn't really satisfy our need for dark, delicious bread, but it does an ok job. We always get a multigrain bread and it's ok. The staff is friendly, the rewards program cool, the location perfect. I like it more as a bakery than a lunch spot, there is something about the atmosphere that I just don't find as relaxing as it should be. But that's probably just me! Oh and they have coin slots to donate to a good cause (I forgot which one) so that's a good use of your time while waiting for them to slice your bread :)
(4)
Rob J.
Love having this in downtown Cincinnati. The perfect place to hang out and do homework. Good coffee and reliable wifi in a comfortable atmosphere.
(4)
Melissa C.
I know some people are anti chain restaurants, but it is great to be able to have good reliable choices when traveling and out and about. This location opened in the fall of 2012 and is setup very well in my opinion. Even when there is a line there is fairly fast service for the amount of people getting food.
(5)
Mick S.
I was here after the Heart Mini with my family. The service was probably the worst I have experienced. The front staff was unfriendly and rude especially Kisha. They didn't plan ahead and ran out of everything including chocolate. I do not know how they are still in business with the attitude from the staff.
(1)
Richard L.
I almost came to tears when I found out the downtown location was (finally!) open. At last there is a place downtown where I can sit all evening with my dinner and my computer. Another great reason to be a downtown resident.
(4)
Katherine D.
I hate to give Panera Bread such a low rating because the people there were so sweet and helpful. The food was , eh, ok. The prices were a bit escalated for the type of food it is. I just don't get the following Panera Bread has. I have friends who actually say they love it and they classify it as one of their favorites. I seriously, wanted to love it too, I tried to love it. I love the atmosphere of it. It's laid back, comfortable, the fireplace, etc... It's like a gourmet coffeeshop or something. The food was lackluster. I mean, if I want soup and a sandwich, it's not a real night out kind of thing. It was raining yesterday, this place is a block down from the office, I thought, today is the day I give it a try. I get so frustrated when the food looks better than it actually is and then even more frustrated when I realized I just paid $11 for food that looked better than it actually was. Oh well, onwards and upwards right....
(1)
Marty J.
I was very excited when this location opened downtown since I'm in the area often. However, I have never been so disappointed by customer service at a Panera before; Slow, slow, slow. I've tried to give it a few chances but every time I go I leave more and more frustrated. Most recently I went in to get a latte around 5pm on a Thursday. There were two people ahead of me in line, about 3 tables seated, and 5 people working. It took me THIRTEEN minutes to get my drink. It would have been much faster for me to walk down a block to Starbucks. If this Panera can't get their act together and provide some speedy service, then they really serve no purpose downtown.
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast, Brunch Parking : Street Bike Parking : No 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 Caters : Yes
Greta R.
This is a very friendly location. I was there early in the morning and despite long lines the staff was very friendly and enthusiastic. I had the quinoa hot cereal with sliced almonds. It was fantastic. They also have lots of plug which came in handy as I needed to charge up my phone.
(4)Corey W.
Stood in line for 5 minutes at the register, 2 employees saw me and walked to the kitchen as I stood there waiting to order. This was at 2:35 on August 31st. I decided to go somewhere else as I would still be waiting in line!
(1)Anjelica N.
Panera launched their Rapid Pick-Up option on the online ordering options awhile ago but I've only really utilized it recently. Spending the overwhelming majority of my lunch breaks in my office, getting lunch from the 2 cafes in my building gets pretty tedious and bland really quicky... but it's quick and convenient. Luckily, Panera's Rapid Pick-Up is almost just as quick and convenient...there's also the added bonus of getting a quick walk outdoors to break up my day. As for the food, everything is as good as always. They don't skimp on portions and give you all the utensils and napkins you'll need... you just walk in, find your name/bag and walk-out. It's also super fun when you walk in a peak lunch hours and there's a gigantic line...and you just grab your bag and scoot. I've seen the look on people's faces sometimes and it clearly reads, "AH - why didn't I think of that?!?"
(4)Joel L.
This location is consistent with others. Service is friendly and quick.
(4)Marcus F.
I'm usually not one to write a review about a corporate chain restaurant, however I believe that Panera Bread on East 6th Downtown has become more of a hub for people to network, catch up on work, and relax. The ambience is very soothing, a fireplace is in the center of the dining room and floor to ceiling windows line the restaurant so you're able to get a nice view of the hustle and bustle of the city or 'people watching'. The service at this location has been hit and miss, however overall I believe that most of the employees are helpful and friendly. Any-who, the usual things I get are: * Power Chicken Salad - Very citrusy from the lemon juice. Tangy hummus flavor. Good portion of chicken and salad. *Thai Salad - Almonds give this dish a crunchy texture, and they give you a generous amount of chicken. * Avocado Salad - Surprisingly I enjoy this salad despite not enjoying avocados. * Thai Flatbread - Not my favorite menu option, my feelings were so-so. I believe that this particular item should be rethought. Maybe a thinner flatbread? * Broccoli and Cheddar soup with Bread Bowl - Quite possibly my favorite. The bread bowl could be less tough. Overall I would say that I enjoy this combination. With this particular location a lot of obnoxious people come in, so it's hard to study at times with people yelling at each other.
(2)Lindsey W.
Very dirty! I don't recommend it at all. For example, the lack of food preparation. Just save your time.
(1)Teri D.
If you're staying or working downtown then this is a good spot to get some cheaper grub than some other places (especially the hotel restaurant). Ordered a bagel wish schmear and a coffee. Hubs ordered a scone, OJ, and a bacon egg and cheese sandwich. Now we get down to brass tacks. Food wasn't bad BUT (you saw this one coming, right?) the guy at the register couldn't remember how to spell hubs name (it's only got 4 letters to it buddy), didn't give me a cup for my coffee (I had to go find one behind the counter myself), they no longer have smoked salmon cream cheese (sniffle) and they didn't slice my bagel the way I wanted. Oh well...stuff happens but all of this for under $15? I'm good!
(3)Samantha S.
Workers late. Did not open on time. In morning, woman opened door and customer asked, "are you open?" The worker replied, "we are now..."
(2)Liz S.
Can't you give a place less than 1 star?? Seriously though, HORRENDOUS service. I ordered, waited patiently for 15 minutes (while my friend was chowing down her food after 5 minutes of waiting) and was told they had forgotten about me after I had to go back up there to remind them... After another 10 minutes of waiting (literally for soup and pasta, that is pre-made because it's Panera...) I went to go get a refund. No apologies, and they were actually upset with ME for getting a refund. They wanted to give me the food almost 30 minutes later, and not think anything of it... Also, $10 for soup/pasta, and asking for my refund, I was told it would be 7-10 days for my refund to show... so quick to debit, so slow to credit. This is why people go LOCAL!! (Unfortunately on a Sunday, everywhere else was closed... :()
(1)Isaiah F.
This review is a little biased and is due to things that they may not have planned for. First when we walked in at 10:45 on a Sunday morning they had ZERO bagels left. Not a single one. It was the weekend of the Flying Pig so I'm sure it was busier earlier but you need to plan for that. Second, after we ordered our food I sat and watched as six people who ordered after me all got their food. All I ordered was two breakfast sandwiches. Not the world, not the whole menu, just two sandwiches. Food was decent just like Panera normally is but to wait 15 minutes when it's not busy for two sandwiches. They didn't even start our order until I walked up to the counter and asked if it was coming out soon. I'm not your baby sitter, I'm a customer.
(2)Justin R.
I've visited this same Panera in downtown Cincinnati 3 times one year apart for each visit. Why did I come back s third time? It's the most disorganized restaurant I've been to. 30 minutes this time for a bowl of oatmeal . I guess it's a low option market on a Sunday morning so this place gets more business than it deserves . Food quality is fine. When you get it .
(2)Ian R.
Came in here around dinner time, and it wasn't too busy. However, the staff that was working at the time were amazingly polite and nice, and all of them had smiles on their faces. I love seeing that when I walk into a business, because it makes you feel welcome and at home. Ordered a salad and a smoothie and was in and out in about 5 minutes,
(5)Danae B.
I am absolutely addicted to Panera. So we headed there for a late lunch on new year's eve and it wasn't crowded, but they could have used about three other people working. I will give them definite props for the store layout. I noticed that it seemed like they made it kind of hard for people that aren't patroning Panera to just wander around in there. It is a cafeteria based place so the food is exactly how it is at every other Panera. I wish this place would have opened before we moved out to the 'Burbs!
(5)Neil P.
Poor service even at 11am, before the lunch rush. When placing my order I asked if the pasta dish was vegetarian. The employee taking my order did not know (which was fine she seemed new) but she asked another employee that had a very abrupt matter-of-fact response that was off putting. Also asked if Iced Coffee refills were free if I stayed. The same matter-of-fact responding employee asked if I was eating here (I already said I was she didn't seem to listen). I said I was eating here and I was answered with "Soooo, Yeah" Sorry asking. I didn't know there was a Panera Natsi. The clientele is mostly white collars from the neighboring office buildings for lunch. A few questionable characters which I guess are expected being in downtown. One guy in particular who couldn't stop cursing on the cell phone long enough to register that he was even in a bakery. Or that he was standing right next to on top of me as I was ordering, personal space? And there are children around, earmuffs, that's all you have to say. The food was average. Ordered a Tomato and Mozz Ciabatta. There was some sundried tomato pesto on it that was kind of sour. The sandwich itself had an interesting mixture of being burnt and cold. Cold because they forgot the pasta side dish that I ordered and the sandwich sat out on the counter while they apparently microwaved the pasta and added an extra dose of olive oil. That's healthy right? I chose this place to get lunch and sit and study for a while. There was tons of seating available at 11 and around 12:30 (lunch rush) it did get busy but there were still spots and most importantly power outlets available. I made a friend who watched my laptop and headphones while I refilled my iced coffee (Soooo. Thanks, rude lady), consoled crying children who kept asking "Why does that man say those things, daddy?", and used the restroom (clean). If I was alone I'd be concerned about leaving my stuff unattended. The bar-style seating with power outlets is up against the front window and has a straight shot to the exit. Basically people can see your laptop from the street and walk right in grab it and walk right out before anyone realizes what's going on. So single studiers be aware. My search for the perfect study spot continues but this place will work in a pinch.
(2)Tim G.
Awesome spot and my first Panera Bread experience. They are conveniently located in Fountain Square. Bonus points for free wifi and friendly staff. I'm working away on my laptop with a hot chocolate to warm me up on a cold day.
(4)Bethany S.
This is one of those few nationwide chains I'm a fan of. Their food is just delicious and has some relatively healthy options for fast food. Our office orders bagels from Panera regularly, and I adore the cinnamon crunch ones especially. With hazelnut cream cheese, yum. At this particular store, my co-worker and I were stopping by to grab some dinner to go. We both wanted the same thing and thought it would be easier to order 2 of each (2 spinach salads and two black bean soups) but apparently this was very difficult to do on the cash register, because at first they gave us the wrong soup. But it didn't take long to get corrected, and we were on our way. Soup and salad were both fresh, with quality ingredients, and delicious. I need to remember to get the spinach salad again the next time I'm at a Panera, if I can pass by the bagels and muffins.
(4)Elizabeth L.
I know I'm super lame for reviewing a nation-wide chain, but like how I start all my chain reviews, "not all chains are created equal." For its location-- basically on Fountain Square-- it's a little gem of a place to just RELAX from the hustle and bustle of downtowners (of what hustle and bustle downtown even gets). If you haven't realized, other than the Westin lobby, there is no where near Fountain Square to hide away from inclimate weather without being judged for entering except this Panera. It's clean, and it's super spacious (my favorite part). Sit by the fire or the huge windows and watch the snow fall or people walking by. But as a chain, yes, I assume the food can't get much better or worse than your standard Panera. I'd come here to read/study/do work all the time with the abundant amount of tables and outlets, but I'm too proud to choose Panera over local. And that's the honest truth.
(4)Stephen G.
15 years in America and I have never been to a White Castle. It's an achievement I am proud of. More recently though I was becoming ashamed I had never been to a Panera either. Since the chain's entry into the busy downtown Cincinnati market - right near bustling Fountain Square - my wife has been a massive fan. She swears by them... and by that I don't mean she stands on the sidewalk and cusses loudly in their general direction. Rather she is impressed by their healthy offerings, a selection of sandwiches, salads, pastas and soups that aren't too heavy on either the wallet or the heart. She finally got me in the place a little while ago. The interior surprised me, the plush surroundings, seating, fireplace and layout belying the extraordinarily ugly architecture of the exterior. You place your order and pay at one counter then pick your food up at another counter. Step one was fine. Step two was a little more difficult because the bizarre 'corridor' you wait in is poorly designed resulting in too many people jostling for space in too small an area. To make matters worse the space is also shared with the drinks dispenser and condiments resulting in even more shoulder-to-shoulder barging.in my opinion it all needs a bit of a rethink. We were there at a relatively quiet time of the afternoon - I dread to imagine what it must be like at busy periods like breakfast or lunch. It's a shame because the food itself is very tasty, representing good value for money. I opted for a "pick 2" deal, and enjoyed a superb Asian salad twinned with a succulent chicken panini. $9 for the pair... not too shabby at all. I can understand why Panera is so popular. It's streets ahead of most other fast food you can get, the made-to-order aspect way healthier and more satisfying than something which has been sitting around under a heat lamp for a while. The layout in this branch was peculiar and a permanent whistle/buzzing noise from something electrical in the premises proved to be extremely distracting and irritating for our entire visit, but the food made up for it. I will go back but pick my time carefully so I don't have to linger - or jostle with other diners - too long in "the corridor of doom"
(3)Amnon F.
The most inconsistent Panera branch I ever saw. I always order the same thing, Greek with shrimp, never got it the same way twice! Great crew though, working hard to make it right.
(2)Tracey J.
Panera Bread downtown- count me in. That long early morning meeting at work is a lot more bearable with strawberry cream scone or a cinnamon crunch bagel with honey walnut cream cheese. The downtown location is large and laid out so you can order and pick up in a breeze for that quick pre-work bite. On the weekends, it's a great place to meet up with friends over soup, salad and sandwiches. If you're going solo, you can fire up your favorite device with their wi-fi and and get caught up on all the social media goings-ons, or enjoy a good book. The staff are friendly and efficient. The atmosphere is inviting and comfortable, especially in front of the fireplaces. Nice to see one of the comforts of the 'burbs in the center of town.
(4)David M.
Most have probably had Panera so I won't waste time on the food situation (although Panera has great food). This location, being right off of Fountain Square, is always packed for weekday lunches. That being said, they usually have 5 or 6 cashiers moving people through very quickly. It still takes a little longer than usual to get your food but this location can handle a rush no problem. It also has a few outdoor spots if its nice and you are lucky enough to grab one. Panera can be healthy, is usually reliable, and this location is a a great work-lunch destination.
(4)Paige M.
Welcome Panera! It's exciting to have a new chain restaurant open Downtown that's not a sports bar. I'm also thrilled not to have to drive out to the 'burbs to grab one of their delicious salads. Located along the bustling intersection of Sixth and Vine, I visited Panera on opening day and was impressed with the layout. Other stores have a model that tends to bottleneck during mealtime. Downtown Panera has the bakery section angled so that customers can gawk at the pastries and others who are ready to order can pass by to order on the right. The areas for the queue are conveniently marked, and the menus can be read from any place that you're standing in line. The pick up and dining areas are around the corner. This keeps customers moving who are on the go, and gives the more leisurely diner a private side area to enjoy their meal. Open early for breakfast, until 9PM during the week and 7PM on weekends, Panera is a much needed staple for the urban appetite. Price per person: $10.00
(4)Ricky M.
Very refreshing to have a panera location Downtown. I was a tad hesitant since for years this former Arby's location has been a homeless hangout. My visit was without incident. Great helpful staff. Quick service. And great environment.
(4)Erica M.
I've been impressed with the service in the half-dozen times I've visited so far. Friendly, responsive staff make this more than a fast-ish-food location... it's a pleasant eating experience. I love the layout and the location is perfect. Other than that: it's a Panera.
(4)SaVon S.
I love panera and the food but this location has the worst service I have ever witnessed.
(1)Lauren A.
This is one of the nicer Paneras I've been to. Very large and clean (especially for being in the middle of a big city). The staff was friendly and our food was perfect, no deviance from the usual Panera products, but it was quick to come out. No complaints here!
(4)Louise D.
When you're from Europe, one of the tricky things about living abroad is finding high quality bread. Luckily there are a few great bakeries in Cincinnati, so we don't suffer too much (thank you Blue Oven, and even Kroger Newport with your fresh breads that we can slice ourselves!). Panera doesn't really satisfy our need for dark, delicious bread, but it does an ok job. We always get a multigrain bread and it's ok. The staff is friendly, the rewards program cool, the location perfect. I like it more as a bakery than a lunch spot, there is something about the atmosphere that I just don't find as relaxing as it should be. But that's probably just me! Oh and they have coin slots to donate to a good cause (I forgot which one) so that's a good use of your time while waiting for them to slice your bread :)
(4)Rob J.
Love having this in downtown Cincinnati. The perfect place to hang out and do homework. Good coffee and reliable wifi in a comfortable atmosphere.
(4)Melissa C.
I know some people are anti chain restaurants, but it is great to be able to have good reliable choices when traveling and out and about. This location opened in the fall of 2012 and is setup very well in my opinion. Even when there is a line there is fairly fast service for the amount of people getting food.
(5)Mick S.
I was here after the Heart Mini with my family. The service was probably the worst I have experienced. The front staff was unfriendly and rude especially Kisha. They didn't plan ahead and ran out of everything including chocolate. I do not know how they are still in business with the attitude from the staff.
(1)Richard L.
I almost came to tears when I found out the downtown location was (finally!) open. At last there is a place downtown where I can sit all evening with my dinner and my computer. Another great reason to be a downtown resident.
(4)Katherine D.
I hate to give Panera Bread such a low rating because the people there were so sweet and helpful. The food was , eh, ok. The prices were a bit escalated for the type of food it is. I just don't get the following Panera Bread has. I have friends who actually say they love it and they classify it as one of their favorites. I seriously, wanted to love it too, I tried to love it. I love the atmosphere of it. It's laid back, comfortable, the fireplace, etc... It's like a gourmet coffeeshop or something. The food was lackluster. I mean, if I want soup and a sandwich, it's not a real night out kind of thing. It was raining yesterday, this place is a block down from the office, I thought, today is the day I give it a try. I get so frustrated when the food looks better than it actually is and then even more frustrated when I realized I just paid $11 for food that looked better than it actually was. Oh well, onwards and upwards right....
(1)Marty J.
I was very excited when this location opened downtown since I'm in the area often. However, I have never been so disappointed by customer service at a Panera before; Slow, slow, slow. I've tried to give it a few chances but every time I go I leave more and more frustrated. Most recently I went in to get a latte around 5pm on a Thursday. There were two people ahead of me in line, about 3 tables seated, and 5 people working. It took me THIRTEEN minutes to get my drink. It would have been much faster for me to walk down a block to Starbucks. If this Panera can't get their act together and provide some speedy service, then they really serve no purpose downtown.
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