Panera Bread - Cranston

I have been a regular customer at Panera Bread for years, but my visit tonight was the most disappointing experience I've ever had. As someone in law enforcemen... read more I have been a regular customer at Panera Bread for years, but my visit tonight was the most disappointing experience I've ever had. As someone in law enforcement, I have never experienced discrimination until now. The attitude from the cashier and servers made me feel very unwelcome. Normally, I enjoy dining in, but tonight I felt so uncomfortable that I just grabbed my order to go and left. When I opened the bag, my sandwich was poorly made—missing mayo, lettuce, and pickles, with only an apple on the side. I tried to fix it myself but ended up speaking with Cindy, the manager, who was professional and understanding. She even refunded my money. Despite her efforts, this incident has left a very negative impression. Given this treatment, I cannot recommend Panera Bread or return to enjoy their menu in the future.

I honestly don’t understand why it takes 10-15 minutes for breakfast to arrive. I ordered the chipotle chicken scrambled eggs on ciabatta and watched the staff... read more I honestly don’t understand why it takes 10-15 minutes for breakfast to arrive. I ordered the chipotle chicken scrambled eggs on ciabatta and watched the staff work at an unusually slow speed during that time. The only reason I’m giving this place 2 stars instead of 1 is because of the woman at the front. She was excellent—very friendly and created a great first impression.

The restaurant features a modern atmosphere, though the tables tend to be somewhat sticky. Also, the portion sizes are smaller than those at other Panera Bread... read more The restaurant features a modern atmosphere, though the tables tend to be somewhat sticky. Also, the portion sizes are smaller than those at other Panera Bread locations.

The drive-thru tends to have a long wait, usually around 30 minutes. There have been times when I was told they were short-staffed and had to go inside to place... read more The drive-thru tends to have a long wait, usually around 30 minutes. There have been times when I was told they were short-staffed and had to go inside to place my order, which defeats the purpose of a drive-thru. However, this location is great for parents of small children who tend to fall asleep just five minutes before getting home, as taking them out of their car seats wakes them up. Having this option nearby is really helpful. The drive-thru allows them to enjoy a longer nap while I get some peace and quiet. On other occasions, I've ordered hot tea and still ended up waiting an additional 10 minutes at the window, which is puzzling since I could boil water faster at home. The staff is always laid-back. If you’re not in a hurry, this is definitely the drive-thru for you. Right now, I’m in line with my sleeping kids, writing this review, and I still have three cars ahead of me. It’s quite an experience!

I waited over 30 minutes for my order, but it was never completed, so I had to leave and requested a refund. The kitchen really needs to communicate better with... read more I waited over 30 minutes for my order, but it was never completed, so I had to leave and requested a refund. The kitchen really needs to communicate better with the cashiers when they're running behind.