Panera Bread — Restaurant in Waco

I used to go to this Panera once a week, loved it. Never had a complaint until I left my wallet on the table one day (yes, I realize it's my fault but) I called about 10 minutes later realizing I had left it and the cashier said, "yes, we picked it up right away and it's behind the counter." I came right back, opened it up, and the $250 I had in my wallet was gone...all cards were there. So, I asked to speak to a manager and the manager that was there came out and was really rude and said, sorry the manager that was on shift when you were here left, you'll need to call back tomorrow. I literally was gone for 15 minutes but okay, I'll call tomorrow. The manager I spoke with the next day was extremely nice, said to file a police report because that's the only way they can review the video tapes in the store (mind you the FIRST manager said they didn't have cameras in the building even though if you look up, you can see them). So, needless to say, the cops weren't able to fully see the spot where I was sitting, they just saw me exit the restaurant. Having the money stolen sucks, but more so, Panera never even offered to try and make it right. Yes, they don't know how much I had, yes, I left my wallet on the table, but still, even their apology was inconsiderate. Funny enough, I never carry cash, but my ex-husband gave me some cash towards our daughters health insurance that I pay through my work so I just happened to have that kind of money in my wallet. Oh well, learning lesson, I never wanted to accuse anyone, because I have no idea who took the money, but the manager said as soon as they cleaned the table, they saw the wallet, so just makes me wonder. I work in sales, and I deal with all kinds of people...but I always do my best to try to make a situation right, and it's sad that most people just don't care as much anymore. This happened a while back, and I've never eaten at...

Review: Panera Bread, 2516 W Loop 340, Waco, TX

I regret to share an exceptionally disappointing experience at the Panera Bread located at 2516 W Loop 340, Waco, TX, during my visit today. I ordered two strawberry salads, one with chicken and one without. Shockingly, I discovered a hair resembling an eyelash or nose hair in the chicken salad midway through eating. This was incredibly off-putting and nauseating.

Seeking assistance, I approached a male employee at the cookie counter. He responded with a blank expression and, without addressing me or acknowledging the situation, shouted into the kitchen for someone seems named Leslie(not quite sure). A female employee emerged, also devoid of any smile or apology, and brusquely asked if I wanted a replacement salad or some cookies, evidently not offering a refund as an option. Reluctantly, I requested a new salad, though I had already lost my appetite after consuming half of the initial one.

Throughout the entire interaction, there was a complete absence of any smiles or apologies from the staff. The wait for the replacement was excessively long, and as I had an appointment with my doctor, I was compelled to follow up. The male employee continued shouting into the kitchen, whereupon I approached the food window. The female employee, after some delay, noticed me and indicated the salad would be ready soon. After returning to my seat and waiting further, I finally received the new salad.

Overall, this experience was profoundly unsatisfactory. The lack of basic hygiene, unprofessional behavior, and inadequate customer service were unacceptable. I give this Panera Bread location the lowest possible rating and strongly advise against...

12/05/2024-UPDATE from one star. Happy to see a difference from before. Although the pictures are a far cry from what you recieve, thats pretty common. Much more robust sandwiches over several visits and the coffee is still great. Staff is friendly. Bagels seem to have decreased in size over the years but are still delicious. Hopefully my previous experience was a one time.

09/05/2024- All I can say is Dam. Panera used to be such a good and reliable value. Place was practically empty at 8:20 AM. Cashier was very polite. Got a to-go order and was immediately told no everything bagels. Actually nothing but asiago and something else bagels. Was able to get one finally as my order was being made but wish I didn't. Nothing like what they used to be. Better value bagels at Dunkin by far. Ordered two breakfast sandwiches. Pretty pathetic and almost criminal. Now, I know fast food chains always shortchange your drive-thru and to-go orders because they assume you wont check nor hassle with going back to complain. But Panera? Come on! Looks like Hellen Keller made my sandwiches. Pretty pricey for what you get. Then I went to get my coffee, light roast. But no. Empty. Just like the store. Going again and...