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| - Every year that passes they become more "Panera-fied" and I'm less motivated to eat at Paradise. It's sad what a local institution has turned into after getting bought out! The "old" Paradise (which always had an insane line at every mall and restaurant) was super focused on baked-right-there goods and high quality meats, pastas, and more. I grudgingly admit the Panera-fied menu is healthier (as in lower calories and fat), but the amount of meat, cheese, and veggies in the sandwiches and salads is pathetic now. The deli meat is now very processed and obviously lower quality, while the "central bakery" and pre-made dough changes have lowered the baked goods' quality. And don't get me started on the microwaved macaroni and cheese. I even hate the new script logo which seems nonsensical since the old "swirly" Paradise logo was closer to the current Panera one! Oh, and the bags are much cheaper now too, with no handles (they were like Starbucks' bags before and super durable). I even resent the new white dishes that replaced the signature colorful Paradise ones and the ugly chairs they're replacing the old ones with.
That said, the food is still a little step above Subway, especially the chicken with wild rice cream soup. The recipe/taste of the cookies thankfully is still intact, as is the free cookie you get with most meals. Years ago they competed directly with Wildflower Bread, but now they're barely a step above fast food.
Service is hit or miss. Make sure to check your order before you leave if you're getting takeout. They'll remake things that they mess up on.
The parking lot can be absolutely ridiculous and is woefully inadequate for such a large restaurant. Watch out for people parked over the lines! Sometimes it's less hectic by the Circle K.
Yes, it's still a decent place to grab an affordable not-fried lunch from on a workday, especially if you can avoid the lunch rush.
Expert tips: They do have the ability to toast bread slices. You can ask to swap the free chocolate chip cookie for another type as they ring in your order.
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