Home

Download

NO BAD **RECOMMENDATIONS**.

London, England

Red Room

Copenhagen, Denmark

Delphine

Amsterdam, Netherlands

Chez Nina Green Brasserie

The most popular restaurants in Nova Circle right now

TRENDING NOW

Guide to

During Winter

Prague 

in Finland

The Northern Lights

Winter Edition

Paris

Best bars

New York Cities

Explore curated travel guides filled with hidden gems and top recommendations to inspire your next adventure.

TRAVEL GUIDES

Discover standout moments and top picks from our vibrant community of travelers and explorers.

USER HIGHLIGHTS

Meet our most active and inspiring community members sharing unique recommendations and insights.

TOP USERS

On A Budget

5 Star Luxury Travel

You Must Visit

Eco-Friendly Hotels

Avoid Bali belly

How To:

That Are Worth The Trip

Dining Concepts

The World Is Slowing Down

Soft Travel

Stay updated with the latest travel tips, trends, and exciting updates from the Nova Circle community.

NEWS

Explore

Copenhagens Boutique Hotels

Discover

Tokyos best Ramen

Travel philosophy

The Rise of ‘Soft Travel’

Dublin Best Pubs

 Find fresh ideas and experiences to discover, from must-visit spots to unique activities.

MORE INSPIRATION

Connect with trusted partners who share our passion for unforgettable experiences and quality travel.

OUR SELECTED PARTNERS

Nova Circle is your single space for saving and sharing top recommendations around the world while getting inspired by likeminded people.

Nova Circle - No Bad Recommendations

As a valued Nova Circle member you can enjoy our exclusive partner discounts. Simply just sign in to claim the deals.

Partner Discounts

Enjoy exclusive travel partner discounts with Nova Circle.

Nova Circle Benefits - Travel Partner Discounts

Benefits

Charleston, SC

North America

United States

# Panera Bread – Fast-casual dining, sandwiches, soups, salads, Charleston SC
Panera Bread in Charleston, SC, offers a fast-casual dining experience with a focus on fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads. Established with a vision to provide wholesome food in a welcoming environment, Panera has become a community staple. The restaurant is known for its commitment to quality ingredients and a menu that caters to various dietary preferences. Over the years, it has garnered a reputation for its inviting atmosphere and quick service, though recent reviews highlight some inconsistencies in food quality and customer service. 

## History
### The story of Panera Bread
Panera Bread was founded with a vision to create a bakery-café concept that emphasizes quality and freshness. The brand started as Au Bon Pain in 1981, evolving into Panera Bread in 1997 after acquiring the Saint Louis Bread Company. The focus has always been on providing a comforting dining experience with a menu that features freshly baked bread, wholesome soups, and salads made from high-quality ingredients.

### Milestones and growth
- 1981: Au Bon Pain founded, introducing fresh bakery items.
- 1997: Rebranding to Panera Bread, expanding the menu.
- 2000s: Rapid expansion across the United States, establishing a strong presence in the fast-casual dining sector.
- 2017: Acquisition by JAB Holding Company, further enhancing growth and innovation.

### Cultural and local influence
Panera Bread has significantly influenced the dining culture in Charleston by promoting a healthy lifestyle through its menu offerings. The restaurant has become a gathering spot for locals, providing a space for community engagement and social interaction. Its commitment to sustainability and responsible sourcing resonates with the values of many Charleston residents.

### Continuing the tradition
Panera continues to innovate while maintaining its core values. The introduction of seasonal menu items and a focus on transparency in ingredient sourcing reflects its dedication to quality. The restaurant also emphasizes community involvement, often participating in local events and initiatives.

## Community
### Community involvement
Panera Bread actively engages with the Charleston community through various initiatives. The restaurant often collaborates with local organizations and charities, providing meals for those in need and participating in fundraising events. This involvement fosters a sense of connection with the community and enhances its reputation as a socially responsible business.

### Community notion about the place
The local community views Panera Bread as a reliable option for casual dining. Many appreciate the restaurant's commitment to quality and its role as a comfortable meeting place. However, recent reviews indicate that some patrons have experienced inconsistencies in service and food quality, leading to mixed sentiments about the overall experience.

### Events and gatherings
Panera Bread hosts various events, including community meetings and fundraisers, creating a welcoming environment for locals. These gatherings often focus on health and wellness, aligning with the restaurant's mission to promote nutritious eating habits. The café's layout and ambiance make it an ideal venue for informal meetings and social gatherings.

## Offerings
### What Panera Bread offers
Panera Bread's menu features a diverse selection of items, including sandwiches, soups, salads, and bakery goods. The restaurant prides itself on using fresh, high-quality ingredients, catering to various dietary preferences, including vegetarian and gluten-free options. The fast-casual dining format allows for quick service without compromising on quality.

### Dining and food experience
The dining experience at Panera Bread is designed to be casual and inviting. Customers can enjoy their meals in a comfortable setting, whether dining in or opting for takeout. The menu includes signature items like the Broccoli Cheddar Soup and various artisan sandwiches, appealing to a wide range of tastes. However, recent reviews suggest that some items have fallen short of expectations in terms of portion size and flavor.

### Events and packages
Panera Bread offers catering services for events, providing a selection of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. This service is popular for business meetings, parties, and gatherings, allowing hosts to provide a variety of options for their guests. The restaurant also runs promotions and seasonal specials, encouraging customers to try new menu items.

### Facilities and features
- Comfortable seating areas
- Free Wi-Fi
- Rapid pickup station for online orders
- Outdoor seating options
- Clean and inviting atmosphere

## Pros and Cons
### Key insights from reviews
Reviews of Panera Bread in Charleston reflect a mix of positive and negative experiences. While many customers appreciate the quality of food and the inviting atmosphere, others have raised concerns about service consistency and food preparation.

### Compliments and strengths
Customers frequently compliment the restaurant's fresh ingredients and the variety of menu options. The convenience of online ordering and the rapid pickup service have also received praise, allowing for a seamless dining experience. Additionally, the café's ambiance is often highlighted as a pleasant place to enjoy a meal or work.

### Contrasts and notable mentions
On the contrary, several reviews point out issues with food quality and service. Patrons have reported inconsistencies in portion sizes and flavor, particularly with certain menu items. Customer service experiences vary, with some guests noting a lack of attentiveness from staff during busy periods.

### Summary evaluation
Overall, Panera Bread in Charleston offers a solid dining experience characterized by fresh food and a welcoming environment. However, the restaurant faces challenges in maintaining consistency in service and food quality, which could impact its reputation in the community.

## Location & Nearby Attractions
Panera Bread is conveniently located at 2000 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC 29407. Situated in a bustling area, the restaurant is easily accessible for both locals and visitors. The surrounding neighborhood features a mix of retail shops and dining options, making it a convenient stop for those exploring the area. Charleston's rich history and vibrant culture are just a short drive away, offering numerous attractions for visitors to enjoy.

## FAQs
**What are the hours of operation** Panera Bread typically operates from 6 AM to 9 PM on weekdays and 7 AM to 9 PM on weekends.
**Is there a drive-thru at Panera Bread** No, Panera Bread locations do not have drive-thru services.
**Does Panera Bread offer gluten-free options** Yes, Panera Bread provides a selection of gluten-free items, though availability may vary.
**Can I order online for pickup** Yes, customers can place orders online for quick pickup at the restaurant.
**Does Panera Bread have a rewards program** Yes, Panera offers a rewards program for frequent customers, allowing them to earn points on purchases.

## Visit Panera Bread Today
Panera Bread in Charleston, SC, invites you to experience its diverse menu featuring fresh sandwiches, soups, and salads. With a rich history and a commitment to community involvement, this restaurant serves as a welcoming space for locals and visitors alike. While recent reviews highlight some areas for improvement, the overall dining experience remains positive, making it a great choice for a quick meal or casual gathering. Stop by and discover what Panera Bread has to offer!

aeb8442d-f5bb-42ff-bfd6-3c983f8c88bf

Let's start with the pros: - Online ordering was a breeze - I got to the Rapid Pickup station a few minutes ago before the app said it would be ready and so of course it wasn't there yet. Within seconds, a gentleman asked if I was waiting for an online order and he already had my order in his hand! Last 2 times I waited forever. This is a huge improvement! - the Steak & Wake sandwich tasted great - My dog was very pleased with the plain bagel and ate that quicker than she would eat a bagel from chick fil a Cons: - The Steak & Wake sandwich was super thin and way skimpier than advertised. I remember back in the day when their sandwiches were of decent proportions. I know everyone is cutting costs these days, but they've cut the filling out of this sandwich by about 75%. - The cheese was minimal and practically invisible.

ba1ce1a9-e44c-4c0f-8701-1eb2bae80197

I ordered the chicken and wild rice soup, needs at least pepper and more seasoning. Mainly white rice and not wild rice. Baguette is 1/4 the size of a few years ago but good. The 1/2 a sandwich is more like a 1/4 so the value and flavors are no longer there. They need to step it up!

baed7b45-aab9-461e-8664-fc0409b1e6fd

Customer service was atrocious! Talked to someone who couldn't care less to tell me about soups they had. Was getting soup for my sick wife who wanted one and was assured they had plenty. Drove 30 minutes to get 3 bowls of it and was told they didn't have it. I'll stop there.

5359dc8c-2c23-4b4f-912a-39bf12dbd27f

Thursday April 11th, Charleston, SC experienced torrential rains. We were staying in an Airbnb. We didn't have time to food shop, so no food in the fridge. Luckily, Grubhub was delivering : D We ordered: Green Goddess Chicken Cobb Salads, Caesar Salad With Chicken, Strawberry Poppyseed Chicken Salad, Toasted Frontega Chicken Sandwich, Cream Of Chicken & Wild Rice Soups, Fruit Cups and Baguettes. Despite the horrendous weather, the food was delivered in a very timely manner. The young man who delivered the food was very sweet. The entire food order was correct. All the food was very good. Thank you Panera for saving the day.

7c7aa5a1-0290-4ef3-b41e-1961c7341d8a

My hesitancy is that there were no gluten free options. Hadn't been here in 15 years since realizing I have celiac. Hadn't a smoothie which was fine. My daughter had a salad which she said was very good, especially the green goddess dressing.

991631aa-2565-4a74-8964-444ae4fe175a

Average Panera location at best. The employees were pleasant and asked if we needed any help. Restaurant appeared to be clean and they have plenty of tables. Parking is available on two sides of the building (they're on the corner of a small strip of businesses). Their prices have gone up, to the point that I don't see Panera as a good option any longer. Most of the Pick 2 options will now cost around $20 per person. Our food was ready for pick-up in about five minutes. But appears they messed up our order. Instead of a full size Baja bowl and half salad and half flatbread pizza, we got a half Baja and full flatbread. The Baja was good, just not much to it, especially for $11. The half salad wasn't very good; lots of the white center part of the lettuce head - blah. The flatbread was average; greasy pepperoni and cheese.

e1229601-777f-40de-a833-f42b1d5642cf

THE WORST Panera I have ever been to it was appalling. They were out of everything, had no CO2 in the soda machine, the worker at the front was coughing and wearing a mask UNDER HIS NOSE, and there was a HAIR in my soup. To make it worse, when we got our order, we asked for bread not chips and they were out of bread. Want my money back... this place is too expensive to be that inadequate. I will never be coming back.

6593a61a-8014-4bda-9b6e-6408de214b8e

Came here for lunch and we were excited to see the new changes Panera has made to their menu. Unfortunately, we were not completely satisfied. Our came quickly and the cashier ringing us up was very nice. Our food was ok. Nothing special. I had a steak sandwich which was very alright, my kids loved their Mac n cheese. But their grilled cheese was cold and the cheese wasn't even melted which I don't really understand. And my husband had the BLT which was pretty gross actually. It's served cold which he didn't realize when he ordered it but the bacon was literally just bacon that had come out of a fridge. It wasn't crispy and it had congealed grease on it because it had been in the refrigerator. That was a bummer because he was excited for that sandwich. I will say the baguette was delicious. I would order just their bread, it was so good.

04bb5fe8-50c9-494b-98a5-7f39f5b8745d

food is fine i get a very basic easy meal hard to mess up. on the other hand the i came in i noticed the young lady with the pink hair who was supposed to be helping me was on their phone at the front counter. the kitchen had to tell her she had customers and greeted me before she did. on top of she took a phone call in front of me before helping me... i was really just shocked i just grabbed my food and left. not good service

47635ead-1706-49b2-b18e-5078b8e63519

Recently ordered chicken and wild rice soup and it was not as good as it normally is It was very watery like they were trying to stretch it so they could get more servings out of it

Discover Charleston's delicious Panera Bread on Sam Rittenberg Blvd. Enjoy fresh, tasty meals in a cozy setting. Visit now for a satisfying dining experience.

Panera Bread in Charleston, SC | Great Food on Sam Rittenberg Blvd

Charleston

Panera Bread

South Carolina

Visit Panera Bread at 2000 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC for fresh baked bread, healthy options, and a cozy atmosphere. Perfect for breakfast, lunch, or coffee breaks!

Enjoy Delicious Dining at Panera Bread, Charleston SC | Cozy Atmosphere & Fresh Baked Goods

Learn about Panera Bread located at 2000 Sam Rittenberg Blvd, Charleston, SC. Discover our fresh baked goods, healthy menu options, and welcoming environment.

About Panera Bread, Charleston SC | Fresh Baked Goods & Healthy Choices

Opening hours for Panera Bread, Charleston SC. Find opening hours for Panera Bread, Charleston, SC on 2000 Sam Rittenberg Blvd.

Panera Bread Menu Overview

Signature Dishes

Beverages and Pairings

Dietary Options

Chef Recommendations

Experience the Menu at Panera Bread

Piggly Wiggly

OutSlide In

Kowalski Deli