Panera Bread in Tampa

“The Mexican corn soup is more of mushy potato with little corn soup.

Kitchen staff were so loud and laughing that customers were looking at them. This was Wednesday afternoon.
Their shouting and noise were noticeable throughout the restaurant and distracted many customers while dining. It created an uncomfortable atmosphere and did not feel professional. We hope management can address this issue to provide a more pleasant dining experience for guests.“

“Came here for lunch with my little boy. Place was clean. Staff was friendly. I think what I loved most was the all walks of life in there. I loved that there were people that appeared to be un housed and they let them sit and charge their phones and eat in peace. No one bothered anyone and that makes me want to come back.“

“With a nice, healthy place to eat, they have both indoor or drive through service. Oh, goodness, what yummy Pumpkin and/or Squash soups, sandwiches, and fun seasonal beverages. People are nice, helpful, efficient and patient. Prices are fair and food is filling.“

“Like that you can order 1/2 a sandwich. The chicken they use tastes very fresh and is pretty good. Now with the pick 2 you can get different combinations of soup, sandwich and salad. Today it was pretty busy, food took longer than usual but not as much as I expected.“

“Listen!!! I don't know what angels are assigned to the location on causeway but hunny the Flatbread there is Heavenly. The customer service is on point and DON'T get me started on the soup with that warm bread.... y'all pull up 10/10“

“I’m a regular at Panera Bread—I visit daily, sometimes multiple times a day, at locations all over Tampa. It’s my go-to spot for a good coffee and a quiet place to work (or at least that’s the dream).

However, some locations could really benefit from enforcing a no-loitering policy or setting a time limit. I’ve walked into spots where it feels like a domino tournament is in full swing or someone’s hosting a board meeting (complete with pie charts, I kid you not). And then there are the “regulars” who are so regular they might as well have their mail forwarded there.

All this traffic means the restrooms can get… uh, let’s just say “well-loved.” Occasionally, they’re a little dirty, a little smelly, and sometimes straight-up intimidating. (I’ve seen cleaner port-a-potties at a music festival.)

Panera, I love you, but maybe it’s time to reel it in a bit—less “community center,” more “café.” A little enforcement could go a long way in keeping the experience pleasant for everyone. Still, your food and coffee keep me coming back. I just try to steer clear of the restroom roulette.“

“You are poorly represented by a front end manager who is extremely negative. Always complaining about her medical problems. Continuously rolling her eyes, huffing and puffing in irritation. You would expect a cherubic, overweight baker that was cheerful and enjoyed their job. Instead, you get a disgruntled employee who over shares complaints, pain and medical issues In a way that makes you feel guilty for coming to Panera and indulging in a bakery item.“

“I can only speak to the bakery items. I didn't try the food from the kitchen. But I had a few interactions with wonderful staff members this evening, and all the bakery items were FAR better than the other Panera's around Tamap. Very good.“