Panera is Panera is Panera, right? It's one of those extremely consistent chains where - regardless where you are in the world - Panera is always a safe bet. The quality of the baked goods seems to have changed over the years, though. For example: - It doesn't seem like Panera makes their infamous Cobblestone muffins anymore... which is a darn shame. They were one of my favorite guilty food pleasures. It was a dense muffin with raisins and apples and cinnamon and icing... and it fell apart like monkey bread and was divine with a cup of coffee. Happy sigh. The last couple times I've been here, though, I haven't seen them. Am I coming at the wrong time? I don't know, but it makes my inner chubby kid sad (I totally was one, by the way, so I can say this). - What's going on with the bagels?! The asiago bagel used to be much cheesier and denser. The one I recently ate was basically a round of flavorless dough. It tasted like classic white bread and I regretted ordering it the moment I saw it on the plate. I spent the duration of my time eating it wondering how many miles I would need to run to counteract this poor decision. Just thinking about it now is making me wonder if I should run an extra one for good measure. Also, the locale in South Portland has a couple quirks that are worth noting: 1. It is never not busy, so be prepared to wait regardless of when you come. Segue... 2. The parking lot is a nightmare. Not only is it designed weirdly, there are not enough spots for what's going on in this strip mall. I usually have to circle around at least two or three times before something opens up. I do, however, want to note that the staff here has always been quite nice. They know how to efficiently move through the lengthy lines, are patient with questions, and are pretty approachable, normal people. I dig that. I also appreciate that they're cool with people just hanging out here with a good book or for a lengthy meeting. I never feel rushed or like I'm taking up space (I would like to take up more space though, Panera, so please bring back the Cobblestone muffins).
(3)
Heather G.
Great place to get some hearty soup and a sandwich. I'd recommend going wild and ordering French Onion soup & the best darn sandwich they make...the Turkey Bacon Bravo. A lemonade tops this off. :) Try the sandwich. No regrets. They're open late (until 10 or so) it helps to go any time but 12-1. Avoid it at all costs during that time. People are friendly & they usually mess up to go orders (check the bag like mom says) but we're all human. Eat the sandwich, why are you still reading this?! :)
(4)
Alex K.
I popped in for a late lunch - starving and to my delight I was able to order right away. The lady who greeted me was wonderful and the customer in front of me gifted me the remaining cents on her gift-card! My go to, the French onion soup, wasn't warm, so it was really unappetizing. I did get their special salad with the fruit and poppyseed dressing which was actually really refreshing. All in all Panera is quick, with somewhat healthy options, but they aren't always consistent despite their convenience.
(3)
Russell L.
Went to this Panera last night for the first time. Was very impressed with all of the staff. I showed up around 9pm since I had just got in town from California. Mariah helped me out and made some good suggestions. She had a couple difficult customers before me in line but she was very pleasant and patient with them. Even though it was near closing time, the staff made us feel welcome and the butternut squash pasta was delicious.
(5)
Michael Q.
Grilled cheese sandwich was poor. Cheese not melted - bread not grilled. Tomato soup was ok.
(3)
Nicole B.
I'm SO OVER THE MOON THRILLED that this location FINALLY has recycling containers. You do not know how many times I visited and felt wretched for having to toss an empty plastic lemonade cup into a trash barrel (I freakishly admit to taking them to my car to put them in my recycling bin at home...). They recently remodeled this location, and it seems to be cleaner and have much more space for its traditional two-top crowd. You can easily put together two tables and make it a four-top should you need it. I ended up getting a bagel for breakfast, but I have had plenty of dishes here for lunch over the years and almost always end up craving the mac and cheese (it is DIVINE!). I've even tried to make it at home. The ONLY gripe with this location is the horrid parking lot which is packed to the brim at noontime... considering it's one of few quick-yet-fresh-and-healthy lunch spots in the area for the business crowd, that's hardly a surprise.
(4)
Christopher L.
Coffee was good. Refills boom! Why in the hell are you looking up a Panera on yelp?
(4)
Christopher M.
The food lived up to it's usual awesomeness. The service was really good. And the place was relatively clean. So I'll generously offer a 2-star rating. But I cannot endorse any place that practices censorship as part of its every day business practices, which this Panera is guilty of doing. I was working on a cruise ship which docked in Portland and hit up this Panera for some decent land grub and internet. Lo' and behold, I couldn't access certain sites (and no - not those kinds of sites) because they had a content filter!!!!! Not cool. You offer free internet so that you can draw in customers only to limit the sites they can access? I'll gladly pay money elsewhere to be given my right to access whatever internet sites I choose, not to mention being able to complete the work I had planned to do. I support any place trying to keep a child-friendly environment. But when I can't access standard job and internet messaging sites, I have an issue.
(2)
Joy B.
I would give two and a half, stars, but that's not an option -- so I'll just round up! I go to Panera about two-three times a month. The service at the counter when you order is great, but when you pick up the food, it's less than stellar. It always seems as though the person who puts your order together is having a really bad day, they're rude (don't say thank you, or respond when I say thank you) and they never seem to fully read what is on the ticket. I have to ask, each and every time I go, for the extra side of salad dressing that I asked for (and is printed on my receipt) because of the carelessness. Last week, my greek salad was literally nothing but lettuce and tomato. No onion, feta, or olives. No bueno!
(3)
Kylie D.
I've been a huge fan of Panera for as long as I can remember but their online express ordering has really raised the bar. I tried ordering online and found that I could completely customize every item on their menu - it's amazing! Not only can you customize any salad, sandwich, etc., but as you add or subtract items, the system updates your calorie count. Incredible! You can even select the exact time you want your order to be ready and save your favorites for future orders. The system also stores your credit card information and your rewards offers. Once your order is complete, all you have to do is walk into the restaurant and pick up the bag that's waiting with your name on it. On top of that, with all my customizing, they have still never gotten anything in my order wrong. Yes they're a chain but Panera is at the top of their game and I'm so happy to have them in my neighborhood!
(5)
Ryan Y.
While there are certainly more interesting places to have lunch at, Panera, like many national chains, is a consistent and tasty option for a reasonable price. I've eaten here twice so far and it has been good both times. Nothing to write home about, but you'll probably leave satisfied. I'll definitely be back at some point as I work close by, but if you have a little more time to spend for lunch, maybe skip the fast casual meal. There are lots of other great options in South Portland.
(3)
Jacob P.
Just the worst thing masquerading as food that I've tried in a long time. Barely edible swill catering to semi professional blowhards who think they're eating at the "new" thing in fast food. Do yourselves a favor support a business that doesn't churn the same flavorless mayo soaked s@&! day after miserable day. This country will never have a Respectable food culture when these generic feed lots are frequented in every city in this country.
(1)
Ryan D.
Considering the bakery's in the groceries stores here are horrible. This seems to be the only place that has descent sourdough breads. They also have many other breads that are delicious. Other then going to a full blown bakery this seems to be the best place to get a loaf of fresh bread for dinner.
(3)
Ridge Y.
I frequent Panera on a weekly basis often for business meetings outside of the office. The ability to refill your coffee is such a nice touch. So many coffee shops your one & done... The sandwiches are always fresh, good and healthy eating. Whether I'm having a breakfast or lunch meeting Panera is one of my #1 choices. *I will say I am disappointed with the internet speed & have almost giving up on bringing my laptop. They really need to invest in a little better bandwidth. Of course they claim there is so much heavy use, but I've been in there on slow days and still the same poor quality. Ridge York, CRS RE/MAX By The Bay Portland, ME
(4)
Chris C.
I'm always a fan of Panera and I really like this one. It is a great quick stop off the highway when you need dinner or lunch during a drive upto Maine. The staff is friendly and I like the handful of tables they have out of front so you can enjoy some fresh air while escaping your vehicle for the long ride up north.
(4)
Danielle B.
Always a reliable pick, but this Panera seemed to have a connection with the customers and each other. They were having fun while having a good time. I ordered my sandwich toasted and when it came up it wasn't. I mentioned it and without hesitation or attitude they fixed it! It's great to see people enjoying their jobs and doing it well at the same time!
(5)
Emily A.
I'm addicted to their Broccoli Cheddar soup. I swear the must be stirring some crack into that pot cause I just can't get enough of it. My thighs on the other hand.... And I may or may not have purchased the "Soup for a Group" for just myself. On more than one occasion But seriously what's not to like about this place? The food is cheap and SO good. I'm also in love with their Cinnamon Crunch bagels and Chicken Caesar Salad sandwich. Just thinking about their food makes my mouth water.
(4)
Cindi W.
I love this Panera. Good Black Bean Soup and the cinnamon chip scone...of course. Gluten free diet or not, you can't keep me away from the Cinnamon Chip scone! Oh, it is so good. The latte is good too. They actually have pretty decent coffee. Thanks for being consistent so my cravings can be satisfied.
(4)
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Address :343 Gorham Road
South Portland, ME, 04106
Takes Reservations : No Delivery : No Take-out : Yes Accepts Credit Cards : Yes Good For : Breakfast Parking : Private Lot Bike Parking : Yes Wheelchair Accessible : Yes Good for Kids : Yes Good for Groups : Yes Attire : Casual Noise Level : Average Alcohol : No Outdoor Seating : Yes Wi-Fi : Free Has TV : No Waiter Service : No Caters : Yes
Steff D.
Panera is Panera is Panera, right? It's one of those extremely consistent chains where - regardless where you are in the world - Panera is always a safe bet. The quality of the baked goods seems to have changed over the years, though. For example: - It doesn't seem like Panera makes their infamous Cobblestone muffins anymore... which is a darn shame. They were one of my favorite guilty food pleasures. It was a dense muffin with raisins and apples and cinnamon and icing... and it fell apart like monkey bread and was divine with a cup of coffee. Happy sigh. The last couple times I've been here, though, I haven't seen them. Am I coming at the wrong time? I don't know, but it makes my inner chubby kid sad (I totally was one, by the way, so I can say this). - What's going on with the bagels?! The asiago bagel used to be much cheesier and denser. The one I recently ate was basically a round of flavorless dough. It tasted like classic white bread and I regretted ordering it the moment I saw it on the plate. I spent the duration of my time eating it wondering how many miles I would need to run to counteract this poor decision. Just thinking about it now is making me wonder if I should run an extra one for good measure. Also, the locale in South Portland has a couple quirks that are worth noting: 1. It is never not busy, so be prepared to wait regardless of when you come. Segue... 2. The parking lot is a nightmare. Not only is it designed weirdly, there are not enough spots for what's going on in this strip mall. I usually have to circle around at least two or three times before something opens up. I do, however, want to note that the staff here has always been quite nice. They know how to efficiently move through the lengthy lines, are patient with questions, and are pretty approachable, normal people. I dig that. I also appreciate that they're cool with people just hanging out here with a good book or for a lengthy meeting. I never feel rushed or like I'm taking up space (I would like to take up more space though, Panera, so please bring back the Cobblestone muffins).
(3)Heather G.
Great place to get some hearty soup and a sandwich. I'd recommend going wild and ordering French Onion soup & the best darn sandwich they make...the Turkey Bacon Bravo. A lemonade tops this off. :) Try the sandwich. No regrets. They're open late (until 10 or so) it helps to go any time but 12-1. Avoid it at all costs during that time. People are friendly & they usually mess up to go orders (check the bag like mom says) but we're all human. Eat the sandwich, why are you still reading this?! :)
(4)Alex K.
I popped in for a late lunch - starving and to my delight I was able to order right away. The lady who greeted me was wonderful and the customer in front of me gifted me the remaining cents on her gift-card! My go to, the French onion soup, wasn't warm, so it was really unappetizing. I did get their special salad with the fruit and poppyseed dressing which was actually really refreshing. All in all Panera is quick, with somewhat healthy options, but they aren't always consistent despite their convenience.
(3)Russell L.
Went to this Panera last night for the first time. Was very impressed with all of the staff. I showed up around 9pm since I had just got in town from California. Mariah helped me out and made some good suggestions. She had a couple difficult customers before me in line but she was very pleasant and patient with them. Even though it was near closing time, the staff made us feel welcome and the butternut squash pasta was delicious.
(5)Michael Q.
Grilled cheese sandwich was poor. Cheese not melted - bread not grilled. Tomato soup was ok.
(3)Nicole B.
I'm SO OVER THE MOON THRILLED that this location FINALLY has recycling containers. You do not know how many times I visited and felt wretched for having to toss an empty plastic lemonade cup into a trash barrel (I freakishly admit to taking them to my car to put them in my recycling bin at home...). They recently remodeled this location, and it seems to be cleaner and have much more space for its traditional two-top crowd. You can easily put together two tables and make it a four-top should you need it. I ended up getting a bagel for breakfast, but I have had plenty of dishes here for lunch over the years and almost always end up craving the mac and cheese (it is DIVINE!). I've even tried to make it at home. The ONLY gripe with this location is the horrid parking lot which is packed to the brim at noontime... considering it's one of few quick-yet-fresh-and-healthy lunch spots in the area for the business crowd, that's hardly a surprise.
(4)Christopher L.
Coffee was good. Refills boom! Why in the hell are you looking up a Panera on yelp?
(4)Christopher M.
The food lived up to it's usual awesomeness. The service was really good. And the place was relatively clean. So I'll generously offer a 2-star rating. But I cannot endorse any place that practices censorship as part of its every day business practices, which this Panera is guilty of doing. I was working on a cruise ship which docked in Portland and hit up this Panera for some decent land grub and internet. Lo' and behold, I couldn't access certain sites (and no - not those kinds of sites) because they had a content filter!!!!! Not cool. You offer free internet so that you can draw in customers only to limit the sites they can access? I'll gladly pay money elsewhere to be given my right to access whatever internet sites I choose, not to mention being able to complete the work I had planned to do. I support any place trying to keep a child-friendly environment. But when I can't access standard job and internet messaging sites, I have an issue.
(2)Joy B.
I would give two and a half, stars, but that's not an option -- so I'll just round up! I go to Panera about two-three times a month. The service at the counter when you order is great, but when you pick up the food, it's less than stellar. It always seems as though the person who puts your order together is having a really bad day, they're rude (don't say thank you, or respond when I say thank you) and they never seem to fully read what is on the ticket. I have to ask, each and every time I go, for the extra side of salad dressing that I asked for (and is printed on my receipt) because of the carelessness. Last week, my greek salad was literally nothing but lettuce and tomato. No onion, feta, or olives. No bueno!
(3)Kylie D.
I've been a huge fan of Panera for as long as I can remember but their online express ordering has really raised the bar. I tried ordering online and found that I could completely customize every item on their menu - it's amazing! Not only can you customize any salad, sandwich, etc., but as you add or subtract items, the system updates your calorie count. Incredible! You can even select the exact time you want your order to be ready and save your favorites for future orders. The system also stores your credit card information and your rewards offers. Once your order is complete, all you have to do is walk into the restaurant and pick up the bag that's waiting with your name on it. On top of that, with all my customizing, they have still never gotten anything in my order wrong. Yes they're a chain but Panera is at the top of their game and I'm so happy to have them in my neighborhood!
(5)Ryan Y.
While there are certainly more interesting places to have lunch at, Panera, like many national chains, is a consistent and tasty option for a reasonable price. I've eaten here twice so far and it has been good both times. Nothing to write home about, but you'll probably leave satisfied. I'll definitely be back at some point as I work close by, but if you have a little more time to spend for lunch, maybe skip the fast casual meal. There are lots of other great options in South Portland.
(3)Jacob P.
Just the worst thing masquerading as food that I've tried in a long time. Barely edible swill catering to semi professional blowhards who think they're eating at the "new" thing in fast food. Do yourselves a favor support a business that doesn't churn the same flavorless mayo soaked s@&! day after miserable day. This country will never have a Respectable food culture when these generic feed lots are frequented in every city in this country.
(1)Ryan D.
Considering the bakery's in the groceries stores here are horrible. This seems to be the only place that has descent sourdough breads. They also have many other breads that are delicious. Other then going to a full blown bakery this seems to be the best place to get a loaf of fresh bread for dinner.
(3)Ridge Y.
I frequent Panera on a weekly basis often for business meetings outside of the office. The ability to refill your coffee is such a nice touch. So many coffee shops your one & done... The sandwiches are always fresh, good and healthy eating. Whether I'm having a breakfast or lunch meeting Panera is one of my #1 choices. *I will say I am disappointed with the internet speed & have almost giving up on bringing my laptop. They really need to invest in a little better bandwidth. Of course they claim there is so much heavy use, but I've been in there on slow days and still the same poor quality. Ridge York, CRS RE/MAX By The Bay Portland, ME
(4)Chris C.
I'm always a fan of Panera and I really like this one. It is a great quick stop off the highway when you need dinner or lunch during a drive upto Maine. The staff is friendly and I like the handful of tables they have out of front so you can enjoy some fresh air while escaping your vehicle for the long ride up north.
(4)Danielle B.
Always a reliable pick, but this Panera seemed to have a connection with the customers and each other. They were having fun while having a good time. I ordered my sandwich toasted and when it came up it wasn't. I mentioned it and without hesitation or attitude they fixed it! It's great to see people enjoying their jobs and doing it well at the same time!
(5)Emily A.
I'm addicted to their Broccoli Cheddar soup. I swear the must be stirring some crack into that pot cause I just can't get enough of it. My thighs on the other hand.... And I may or may not have purchased the "Soup for a Group" for just myself. On more than one occasion But seriously what's not to like about this place? The food is cheap and SO good. I'm also in love with their Cinnamon Crunch bagels and Chicken Caesar Salad sandwich. Just thinking about their food makes my mouth water.
(4)Cindi W.
I love this Panera. Good Black Bean Soup and the cinnamon chip scone...of course. Gluten free diet or not, you can't keep me away from the Cinnamon Chip scone! Oh, it is so good. The latte is good too. They actually have pretty decent coffee. Thanks for being consistent so my cravings can be satisfied.
(4)