My visit to Panera Bread Company led me to believe that they are one of few restaurants able to serve healthy foods at a speedy pace. Yesterday, I ventured to my local Panera Bread restaurant with my friend and his girlfriend. I had been to many Panera restaurants in Oregon but this was my first time at a Panera in Ohio. The Panera is located between a gas station, Chipotle restaurant, and sits in front of a Mejers grocery store. I would not consider Panera’s location ideal. Their location, however, is not indicative of the service, environment and food being served here.
I do not frequent Panera very often. Having said that I could easily find myself visiting more often if my last visit was typical. I ordered first and not being familiar with the menu, I asked the cashier what were her favorites. She suggested the broccoli and cheese soup with either a large salad or the smoked turkey breast sandwich. I took her advice and ordered the broccoli and cheese soup and a large Caesar salad with a large drink the damage was 10.55. This was quiet reasonable considering the portions were significant. The broccoli cheese soup was the perfect consistency, with just enough sharp cheddar cheese to off set the bitterness of the broccoli. It was smooth and creamy to my taste buds. The Caesar was traditional with just enough dressing that did not seem to over take the crispy crunch of the lettuce but the croutons were chewier than they should have been and there were not enough. They have more then just fountain drinks. I decide to be venturous and fill my cup with Acai berry green tea. I expected it to be taste like sugar and syrup like most other drinks, but again to my surprise it was pleasantly bitter. I was not deterred instead intrigued.
The food arrived exactly 15 minutes after we ordered. Giving us enough time to sit down and catch up on our days. The restaurant was comfortable and my friends and I had enough privacy to speak freely. Nothing was absent from our order. Everything was proportional and by the time I had finished everything, I was full. I like Panera bread the food was tasty, the service was great, and the atmosphere was friendly. I wish they had a more convenient location but I plan on returning soon. I would give them a 4 out of 5 stars.