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| - What I like about Panera is that they evolve well over time, but slowly. When I compare the Panera of 10 ten years ago, when it was more of a bakery with sandwiches to a more dynamic restaurant now.
There are still the pastries and soup in a loaf but more. There are a daily selection from a handful (careful...hot!) of great soups. Soup and salad combos abound. The "pick two" option is very convenient.
And the fresh quality of everything is excellent. Breads, meats, spreads, soups are all crisp, clean and fresh.
They have an electronic ordering system where you can order ahead and upon arrival go straight to the pick up counter. This greatly reduces the ordering line and process which still goes pretty slow. Slow because there are many choices and if you don't know what you want going in, the temptations are many in making your decisions.
They have been better at cleaning the tables of those without consideration for others by busing their own china and debris. The drink area has good selection, but can get backed up as people get ice, then pour, then put lids and lemons in their drinks.
Kitchen puts things together fast and accurately. They truly do a great job.
If you still think Panera as a coffee and pastry shop, think again and give them a try. Menu and variety now rule. And it is a clean place to eat.
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