Panera Bread - Sarasota

I decided to stop visiting this restaurant because they just can’t seem to grasp the simple request of not slicing my bagels. The bagels they offer feel more li... read more I decided to stop visiting this restaurant because they just can’t seem to grasp the simple request of not slicing my bagels. The bagels they offer feel more like bread donuts than the genuine article, and now they have a taste reminiscent of Wonder Bread. It's truly disappointing, especially in Sarasota, where I used to enjoy a good bagel at Einstein's. I've almost lost hope of finding a decent bagel in the area and will also be steering clear of Panera.

I recently visited Panera Bread for the third time, but unfortunately, they were out of bread once again. The cashier was somewhat rude, but the manager did pro... read more I recently visited Panera Bread for the third time, but unfortunately, they were out of bread once again. The cashier was somewhat rude, but the manager did provide us with some bread from the sandwich section for our meal. I was disappointed that they didn't have the bread I was looking forward to having with my soup and salad, as that's the main reason I go to Panera Bread.

I understand that many businesses are having a hard time right now and finding good staff is challenging. However, our experience at Panera Bread left much to b... read more I understand that many businesses are having a hard time right now and finding good staff is challenging. However, our experience at Panera Bread left much to be desired. We waited an unreasonably long time because the single staff member working the counter was moving extremely slowly, managing only two customers ahead of us. My husband and I had enough time to each use the restroom before we even reached the counter. After ordering, we had to join a long line at the back because the front staff clearly couldn’t handle everything alone. When our bagels with cream cheese arrived, they were disappointing. My husband’s cinnamon crunch bagel and my Everything bagel were bundled together unwrapped—this is clearly unacceptable. While the bagels were toasted well, the mix of sweet cinnamon crumbs contaminating the savory Everything bagel was unpleasant. On the plus side, the bathrooms were clean and working, and the tea water was hot—small but appreciated. The tea I initially wanted was empty, but a helpful staff member behind the pickup counter quickly refilled it when asked. Also, the women’s restroom ran out of paper towels, which I pointed out to a kind, older staffer who thanked me. I hope Panera can consider paying their employees better and providing support to improve their service. Perhaps employee stock options could help motivate and retain them. Despite the issues, thank you, Panera, we do appreciate your efforts.

It was Santa's Parade night, and the restaurant was bustling with people. Despite some customers being quite rude to the line cooks, they maintained a positive... read more It was Santa's Parade night, and the restaurant was bustling with people. Despite some customers being quite rude to the line cooks, they maintained a positive attitude and worked hard. A special thanks to the kitchen manager for demonstrating true professionalism!

This looked fine to your manager and she was snarky about it. It?s sad because the normal gentleman manager is REALLY amazing and nice. Unfortunately he is the... read more This looked fine to your manager and she was snarky about it. It?s sad because the normal gentleman manager is REALLY amazing and nice. Unfortunately he is the only one- I hope he can find better help.