Panera Bread — Restaurant in Saint Peters

Getting to the restaurant was difficult. It seemed that Panera was an afterthought in this location, and signage is poor. The restaurant is very well hidden. The parking lot is very small, and was full. The restaurant itself was about half full. Again, maybe it was an afterthought. The lot was so small, in fact, that I worried that this was a carry-out-only location.

The restaurant was clean. Beverages were stocked. Disposal and return of trash, trays, and silverware was easy. The trash cans were not overflowing, the tray and silverware areas had recently been emptied.

Service was maybe a bit reluctant. It was as if I had to push them to do their job. Maybe serving us was an inconvenience?

The food was OK. My only comment is that, if food is not happily and proudly prepared, the taste suffers.

Listening to the tone of the other diners, I think they were more mechanical than happy. We ate and got the heck out of there. I never felt that the staff enjoyed their job, or that they were welcoming. I guess it is inconvenient to have to work.

I did not enjoy my visit. Something was off. I believe it was the attitude of the staff. I have never before eaten at this location, and it has been several years since I have eaten at any StL Bread Co. After this, I suspect it will be some years before I consider returning. It isn't so much that the experience was terrible as that I can have a better experience at many other restaurants. Why go somewhere for an OK experience, when there are good and great experiences to be had, many other places? Would I return to this location?...

From the moment I walked in, the dining area felt sticky and unkempt. Several tables were littered with crumbs and used napkins, and the floor near the pastry display was stained. None of the staff seemed to notice—or care—to wipe down surfaces between customers, which made the entire space feel neglected. After standing in line for nearly ten minutes without acknowledgement, I finally placed my order only to be told, “We’re out of that” three separate times: first for the avocado-egg white melt, then for the turkey chili, and finally for the chocolate chip bagel. When I asked for a manager, the only response was a shrug and “They’re busy.” I waited another five minutes before my name even appeared on the pickup board. When my sandwich finally arrived, it was cold and soggy. The bread—once Panera’s strong point—tasted stale, and my turkey was rubbery. The supposed “fresh greens” in the salad were wilted, and the dressing was barely enough to coat the leaves. To top it off, the coffee station was empty of cups, lids, and stirrers; I had to flag down an employee to scrounge up a few. At full price, this experience was inexcusable. The quality and service fell well below what I’d expect even from a fast-casual spot, let alone a national brand known for its fresh menu. I’ve always been a fan of Panera’s concept, but this location needs a serious overhaul—in staffing, stock management, and basic cleanliness. Until they address these issues, I can’t recommend stopping by. Consider trying a different café or bakery in the...

I placed an order to be delivered to my work. The order was for 2 - pick two's. the order was delivered with out one of the sandwiches. I called the restaurant, the first time the phone rang forever and then I was hung up on, the second time I reached someone, explained the situation , she said that she would send it right out. When I asked what Panera's was going to do for us, she transferred me to a manager. His name was Michael, he said he would send a treat. We received the sandwich about 30-40 minutes later - I am pretty sure it was the original sandwich, due to the fact that it was almost rock hard. But gee, thanks for the cookie!! I will never use this restaurant again! (so I paid $8 extra for an order totaling $24.35 and it was wrong and even when corrected was not edible)

PS. when I told the manager that I gave the driver a $5 tip and paid the $3 delivery fee on top he said that that the $3 was for packaging.... I am wondering if I had driven to pick it up, what it would have been given to me in, if not some kind...