I am not the biggest fan of Panera. I think they are fine, but in general a little overpriced for what you get. I have eaten at many locations over the years and usually the experience is standard, not great not bad. However, I have always enjoyed one particular thing about Panera, and that would be their soups. I am a soup junkie especially when the weather turns cold. That being said I have had some not so great experiences.
My last visit to Panera was prompted by a "coupon" of some type loaded onto my Panera member card. I advise everyone who stops here even occasionally to get one. I have redeemed points for money off meals/drinks and free items, such was the occasion that day. I received a free pick two with the purchase of a drink. I went with Roasted Turkey & Avocado BLT which they panini pressed for me, and a cup of baked potato soup. Now the Turkey BLT and Avo is a go to for me. I usually enjoy it, so this was totally on me for asking for it to be pressed like a panini. It made the veggies warm and soggy and avocado heated isn't the best flavor. However, I still overall enjoyed the sandwich. My big issue was the soup. Absolutely not good whatsoever. It was mushy and had basically no flavor, minus an unusual aftertaste that was not appealing in any way. I ended up pitching it after only a few bites. I also tried their autumn soup last year, and though I hear some rave reviews about this I also felt this soup was not good. It had a very metallic flavor with a funky aftertaste too. Eh there are winners and losers in the game of soups, most of Panera's soups are winners, and then there are these two. However, the Broccoli and Cheese is bombdiggity.
Don't forget to sign up for that member's card, free dessert on your birthday!