Panera Bread - Mount Dora

I was disappointed to find that my sandwich was missing from my order. When I called to request a refund, I was informed that I needed to drive back to the rest... read more I was disappointed to find that my sandwich was missing from my order. When I called to request a refund, I was informed that I needed to drive back to the restaurant, which is a 20-minute drive. Unfortunately, I'm leaving town and can't make the trip back. Overall, this experience has left me frustrated with the customer service.

The service at this restaurant is outstanding—it's both professional and friendly, which truly elevates the already delicious food! read more The service at this restaurant is outstanding—it's both professional and friendly, which truly elevates the already delicious food!

I ordered the Green Goddess sandwich and was disappointed to see that it didn’t resemble the picture at all. It turned out to be mostly bread with just a bit of... read more I ordered the Green Goddess sandwich and was disappointed to see that it didn’t resemble the picture at all. It turned out to be mostly bread with just a bit of lettuce and sauce. The bread itself was smaller than I had anticipated. My husband went for the soup and a tuna sandwich, and he felt that both were pretty lacking in substance. Overall, the restaurant seems to prioritize their bread, which I do enjoy, but I don't think it justifies the high prices on the menu.

This review specifically addresses this particular Panera location, rather than the brand as a whole. Unfortunately, it is the only one in my area, and I really... read more This review specifically addresses this particular Panera location, rather than the brand as a whole. Unfortunately, it is the only one in my area, and I really enjoy Panera's food, so it's my only choice. I visit this location about once a week for lunch on weekends. The service is generally quick, and I find ordering at the kiosk to be convenient. However, I've noticed a significant decrease in portion sizes. I've dined at other Panera locations recently, and their portions remain consistent, so this is an issue specific to this location. Additionally, the food temperature is often inconsistent here. Uniquely, this location requires you to request a cup for your drink. We were informed that people have been stealing cups, and while I’m sure that's true, other restaurants in the Mount Dora area manage their supplies without such restrictions. I believe this reflects a management issue rather than a broader concern with Panera, especially given the somewhat indifferent and at times defensive responses we've received when raising our concerns. I do love Panera, so I sincerely hope this location improves; otherwise, I may need to consider visiting the ones in Lady Lake or Apopka instead.

When I got home, I found that the bread was stale, appeared to be hand-cut, and there was no wrapping or anything to prevent contamination. (I wish I had known... read more When I got home, I found that the bread was stale, appeared to be hand-cut, and there was no wrapping or anything to prevent contamination. (I wish I had known I could send a picture!) Additionally, the chicken noodle soup was lukewarm and overly salty. I think it's safe to say that I won't be returning to that Panera, nor would I recommend it to anyone.