Panera Bread Lunch Menu: Fresh & Tasty Options
Panera’s lunch menu has a mix of sandwiches, soups, salads, and bakery items. These options are perfect for quick lunches, work breaks, or casual meals. Favorites include the Bacon Turkey Bravo, Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT, and Mediterranean Vegetable.
Prices vary from $8.99 for simple items to $11.99 for premium choices. For example, the Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT costs $11.99. The Mediterranean Vegetable is $9.59, and bakery treats like the Kitchen Sink Cookie are around $5.39.
Customers love the soups and sandwiches. Favorites like Broccoli Cheddar and Autumn Squash get high ratings. The overall average is near 4.5 stars, with many praising the freshness and quick service.
Menu items and prices can change. For the latest prices in your area, check the local listing or call the store.
panera bread lunch menu
Panera’s lunch menu has a variety of sandwiches, salads, bowls, soups, mac & cheese, sides, and bakery treats. You can choose from classic sandwiches like Bacon Turkey Bravo and Toasted Frontega Chicken. There are also grain-forward salads like Balsamic Chicken Greens with Grains.
The menu is great for quick meals, group orders, and lighter options. You can enjoy soups like Autumn Squash Soup and Broccoli Cheddar. For dessert, try the Kitchen Sink Cookie.
Panera offers dine-in, pickup, and delivery through Uber Eats. Customers love the freshness and flavors of their sandwiches and salads. It’s easy to find a balanced meal with a sandwich, salad, or soup.
Menu items and prices can vary by location and change over time. For the most accurate prices, check the Panera app, a store’s menu on delivery platforms, or call the restaurant. This helps avoid surprises when ordering for groups or planning a budget.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | Smoked turkey, bacon, tomato, greens, signature sauce on tomato basil bread | 640 | $12.49 |
| Toasted Frontega Chicken | Grilled chicken, chipotle mayo, smoked Gouda, pickled onions on focaccia | 680 | $12.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | Chicken, avocado, Monterey Jack, chipotle sauce on toasted sourdough | 770 | $12.89 |
| Balsamic Chicken Greens with Grains | Greens, quinoa blend, balsamic grilled chicken, toasted seeds | 500 | $14.75 |
| Greek Salad | Romaine, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta, olives, Greek dressing | 360 | $11.15 |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains | Mixed greens, grains, cucumbers, tomato, feta, lemon vinaigrette | 510 | $13.55 |
| Autumn Squash Soup | Creamy squash soup with warm spices, seasonal favorite | 240 | $8.99 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Rich cheddar broth with broccoli florets | 290 | $8.99 |
| Chicken Noodle Soup | Classic broth, shredded chicken, egg noodles | 180 | $8.39 |
| Mac & Cheese | Classic creamy macaroni with a golden topping | 560 | $9.59 |
| Kitchen Sink Cookie | Large cookie loaded with chocolate, oats, and seeds | 610 | $5.39 |
Start with the panera bread lunch menu when planning meals. Compare prices across locations before ordering for events. Remember, small changes can affect calories and allergens, so always check ingredients.
Top sandwich picks and what makes them special
Panera’s sandwiches are known for their balance, bold flavors, and textures. Pick any of the best panera lunch items for a meal that pairs well with soups or salads. Prices vary by location, so check panera lunch menu prices before ordering to avoid surprises.
The Bacon Turkey Bravo is a favorite. It costs $11.99 and has oven-roasted turkey, applewood-smoked bacon, and smoked Gouda. It also has mixed greens and vine-ripened tomatoes. Thin-sliced Tomato Basil bread adds a fragrant lift.
Reviewers love the creamy-tangy Bravo sauce and the careful layering. This sandwich is often at the top of lists for its classic flavor and filling portion.
Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT is praised for its balance and bread choice. It costs $11.99 and has grilled chicken, applewood smoked bacon, and aged white cheddar. It also has mixed greens, vine-ripened tomatoes, and fresh avocado with garlic aioli.
Country Rustic Sourdough provides sturdy support for the ingredients without stealing flavor. For diners exploring panera lunch options, this sandwich is a go-to when you want creamy avocado and a reliable texture.
Toasted Frontega Chicken and Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt share similar price points near $11.99 and a love of Black Pepper Focaccia. Frontega stacks smoked pulled chicken, fresh mozzarella, tomato, red onion, basil, and chipotle aioli. Some reviewers note the focaccia’s peppery chew can overwhelm fillings if the ratio is off.
The Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt adds avocado and sweet Peppadew peppers to boost contrast and creaminess. These choices show how bread choice shifts the experience across panera lunch options.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | Oven-roasted turkey, applewood bacon, smoked Gouda, mixed greens, tomato, Bravo sauce on Tomato Basil | 690 | $11.99 |
| Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT | Grilled chicken, bacon, aged white cheddar, avocado, garlic aioli on Country Rustic Sourdough | 640 | $11.99 |
| Toasted Frontega Chicken | Smoked pulled chicken, fresh mozzarella, tomato, red onion, basil, chipotle aioli on Black Pepper Focaccia | 720 | $11.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | Grilled chicken, avocado, Peppadew peppers, melted cheese, chipotle aioli on Black Pepper Focaccia | 740 | $11.99 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | No | No | No (bread) | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT | No | Possible if ordered without bread | No (bread) | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Toasted Frontega Chicken | No | No | No (focaccia) | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | No | No | No (focaccia) | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Mediterranean Veggie (for comparison) | Yes (with modifications) | No | No (bread) | Dairy, Soy, Wheat |
| Turkey Sandwich (Classic) | No | Possible without bread | No (bread) | Dairy, Soy, Wheat |
| Steak & White Cheddar | No | No | No (bread) | Dairy, Soy, Wheat |
| Avocado BLT (half-size) | No | Possible without bread | No (bread) | Dairy, Egg, Soy, Wheat |
| Classic Grilled Cheese | No | No | No (bread) | Dairy, Wheat, Soy |
| Half Sandwich (customizable) | Varies | Varies | Varies | Varies |
- Choose Tomato Basil bread for bright, herby notes with turkey or chicken.
- Pick Country Rustic Sourdough when you want structure and neutral flavor.
- Use Black Pepper Focaccia for extra chew and a peppery kick; expect stronger bread presence.
These sandwiches represent dependable panera lunch options that regulars request most. If you want variety, try swapping breads or removing sauces to match dietary needs. Tracking panera lunch menu prices locally helps when budgeting for office lunches or repeat visits.
Best vegetarian and lighter lunch options
Panera offers plant-based choices that are both fresh and filling. Their lunch menu includes salads, bowls, and sandwiches. These options are packed with texture and flavor without being too heavy. They’re perfect for a quick lunch or a light meal to share.
The Mediterranean Vegetable sandwich is a top pick for vegetarians. It’s priced at $9.59 and is known for its great taste and value. It’s a satisfying choice for those looking for a meat-free option.
This sandwich features zesty Peppadew peppers, feta, cucumber, mixed greens, vine-ripened tomatoes, red onions, and hummus on Tomato Basil Miche. Reviewers love its crunchy texture and balanced flavors. It avoids being too bready or one-dimensional.
Grain bowls are another light and nutritious option. The Mediterranean Greens with Grains bowl is around $13.55. Adding chicken increases the protein and price, making it a flexible choice for those needing more energy.
The Greek Salad is priced near $11.15 and pairs well with lighter sides. Grain bowls combine romaine and mixed greens with a whole-grain blend, hummus, feta, cucumbers, Peppadew peppers, and Greek dressing. This mix provides a fiber-rich, filling meal.
Third-party taste tests have praised the Mediterranean Veggie sandwich. It’s filled with generous ingredients, varied textures, and bright Peppadew peppers. The hummus and feta add savory depth, making the sandwich feel substantial without meat.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwich | Peppadew peppers, feta, cucumber, greens, tomato, red onion, hummus on Tomato Basil Miche | 620 | $9.59 |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains | Romaine, mixed greens, whole grains, hummus, feta, cucumbers, Peppadew peppers, Greek dressing | 480 | $13.55 |
| Mediterranean Chicken Greens with Grains | Same as above with grilled chicken for added protein | 650 | $14.75 |
| Greek Salad | Mixed greens, feta, cucumbers, tomatoes, olives, Greek dressing | 420 | $11.15 |
| Half Mediterranean Vegetable + Cup of Soup | Half sandwich paired with a seasonal cup; lighter combo option | ~520 | $10.99 |
| Tomato Basil Miche (side) | Signature bread that enhances freshness and aroma | 160 | $0.00 (included) |
| Hummus & Veggies Snack | Hummus served with fresh-cut vegetables for a light bite | 230 | $4.49 |
| Side Greek Yogurt | Plain Greek yogurt, can be paired with fruit for added protein | 150 | $2.99 |
| Fresh Fruit Cup | Seasonal fruit assortment as a light addition | 90 | $3.49 |
| Half Salad + Half Sandwich | Mix and match to control portion and calories | ~450 | $11.49 |
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Vegetable Sandwich | No (contains dairy) | No | No (bread contains gluten) | Dairy (feta), sesame possible |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains | No (contains dairy and grains) | No | No (contains grains) | Dairy (feta), sesame possible |
| Mediterranean Chicken Greens with Grains | No | No | No | Dairy, poultry |
| Greek Salad | No (contains feta) | No | Yes (without croutons) | Dairy (feta), olives |
| Hummus & Veggies Snack | Yes | No | Yes | Sesame (tahini), may contain traces of other allergens |
| Fresh Fruit Cup | Yes | No | Yes | May be processed near tree nuts |
| Side Greek Yogurt | No | No | Yes | Dairy |
| Half Mediterranean Vegetable + Cup of Soup | Depends on soup | No | Depends on soup | Varies by soup (dairy, gluten possible) |
| Tomato Basil Miche (side) | No | No | No | Gluten, may contain dairy |
| Side Salad (no cheese) | Yes (if cheese removed) | No | Yes | May contain tree nut cross-contact |
- Which panera lunch options are best for light eaters?
Grain bowls, Greek Salad, and the hummus & veggies snack are best for lighter lunches.
- Is the Mediterranean Vegetable sandwich filling enough for lunch?
Yes. Reviewers find the layered veggies, hummus, and feta make it satisfyingly filling.
- Can you make the Mediterranean Greens vegan?
Yes. Ask to remove feta and confirm dressing ingredients for a vegan-friendly bowl.
- Are grain bowls good for post-workout meals?
They provide complex carbs and fiber; add chicken to boost protein for recovery.
- Do prices vary by location for these items?
Yes. Local pricing can change; check the panera bread lunch menu for exact costs near you.
- Which of the best panera lunch items are easiest to customize?
Salads and bowls are easiest to tweak for dietary needs and portion control.
- Do Peppadew peppers add a lot of heat?
They add bright, mild heat and sweetness, not strong spice.
- Is the Tomato Basil Miche essential to the sandwich’s flavor?
Yes. The bread’s herb profile enhances freshness and lifts the sandwich overall.
Soups, mac & sides to pair with sandwiches
Panera makes lunch easy with warm soups, creamy mac, and crisp sides. These go great with sandwiches. You can mix and match for a solo meal or share with the office. Below is a list of popular choices, calories, and prices to help plan your order.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Squash Soup | Butternut squash and pumpkin blend with honey, apple juice, cinnamon, curry, sweet cream, topped with roasted salted pumpkin seeds | 320 | $8.99 (Cup) • Group $28.79 |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Classic creamy broccoli with sharp cheddar for a rich, savory bowl | 410 | $8.99 • Group $28.79 |
| Homestyle Chicken Noodle Soup | Comforting broth with shredded chicken and egg noodles | 190 | $8.39 • Group $26.39 |
| Mac & Cheese | Creamy, baked pasta with a mild cheddar blend | 720 | $9.59 |
| Bag of Chips | Single-serve kettle or ripple chip options paired in combos | 150 | $1.99 |
| Whole Apple | Fresh, crisp apple as a light side or snack | 95 | $1.29 |
| Small Side Salad | Greens with choice of dressing for a lighter addition | 120 | $3.49 |
| Kitchen Sink Cookie | Large cookie with semi-sweet and milk chocolate, caramel pieces, pretzels, flake salt | 540 | $5.39 |
| Bagel | Choice of plain, sesame, or everything; great with soups | 310 | $2.49 |
| Side of Bacon | Extra crispy bacon slices to top salads or mac | 90 | $1.99 |
Group-size soups are perfect for meetings and small gatherings. They serve four and are cheaper than individual cups. Prices can vary by location, so check before ordering.
Soups are a Panera favorite. Autumn Squash, Broccoli Cheddar, and Chicken Noodle are top picks. Pair them with mac, a side salad, or a Kitchen Sink Cookie for a balanced meal.
For budget-friendly options, look for lunch specials and combos. You Pick Two combinations let you try different items without overeating.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Autumn Squash Soup | No | No | No | Dairy (sweet cream), may contain traces of nuts from seeds |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat (cross-contact possible) |
| Homestyle Chicken Noodle | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg |
| Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Wheat, Milk, Egg |
| Bag of Chips | Yes (most varieties) | Yes (in moderation) | Yes | May contain soy |
| Whole Apple | Yes | Yes | Yes | None |
| Small Side Salad | Yes (without cheese) | Yes | Yes (no croutons) | May contain dairy, tree nuts in some dressings |
| Kitchen Sink Cookie | No | No | No | Wheat, Milk, Egg, Soy |
| Bagel | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy |
| Side of Bacon | No | Yes | Yes | None |
- Most popular soups: Autumn Squash, Broccoli Cheddar, Chicken Noodle. These appear often in customer favorites and reviews.
- Soup prices and group servings work well for office lunches. Group sizes reduce per-person cost and simplify serving.
- Mac and cheese and bakery items like the Kitchen Sink Cookie add comfort and shareability to any lunch.
- Order group soups ahead when planning meetings to ensure availability.
- Mix a lighter side with a richer soup to balance calories and taste.
- Watch panera lunch menu prices and panera lunch specials for seasonal savings.
FAQ
How much does an Autumn Squash Soup group serve? Group-size Autumn Squash serves about four and is listed at $28.79 in many locations.
Are group soups cheaper than cups? Yes, group portions lower the cost per serving compared to multiple individual cups.
Is mac & cheese available as a single entrée? Yes, Panera offers Mac & Cheese as a main item priced around $9.59.
What bakery items pair best with soup? The Kitchen Sink Cookie and bagels are popular pairings for a sweet or hearty finish.
Can I get allergen details for soups? Panera posts allergen and ingredient info in-store and online; always confirm locally.
Do panera lunch specials apply to group orders? Specials vary; check current offers before placing large orders.
Which sides come in You Pick Two combos? Common sides include chips, apple, and small salads paired with half sandwiches or soups.
Panera lunch combos and You Pick Two choices
Panera makes it easy to choose your lunch with flexible combos. You can pick half-sandwiches, soups, salads, mac & cheese, or bakery items. This way, you can make a meal that fits your hunger and budget. Prices and options vary by location, so check your store or app for details.
How combos help you customize portion and price
You Pick Two is great for those who want to eat less or share meals. Choosing a half sandwich with a soup is cheaper than two full items. Swapping a bakery item for a small salad can save calories while keeping things interesting. Combos offer control over what you eat, how much, and how much you spend.
Best combo pairings: sandwich + soup, salad + half sandwich
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Turkey Bravo + Autumn Squash Soup | Smoky turkey and bacon with warm, creamy squash for a savory-sweet balance. | 760 (combo est.) | $8.99 (varies) |
| Mediterranean Greens with Grains + Half Mediterranean Vegetable | Grain bowl with greens and a half sandwich loaded with hummus and veggies. | 540 (combo est.) | $7.99 (varies) |
| Chicken Noodle + Mac & Cheese | Comfort pairing: classic broth-based soup with rich, creamy pasta. | 820 (combo est.) | $8.49 (varies) |
| Half Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT + Cup of Broccoli Cheddar | Protein-forward sandwich half with a hearty, cheesy soup for warmth. | 690 (combo est.) | $8.79 (varies) |
| Half Turkey Sandwich + Seasonal Salad | Lean protein with fresh greens keeps calories and carbs in check. | 480 (combo est.) | $7.49 (varies) |
Tips for mixing hearty and light items for balanced lunches
- Pair heavy breads like focaccia or ciabatta with lighter soups or salads to avoid feeling overly full.
- Choose a half-sandwich plus a grain bowl when you want protein and fiber without excess starch.
- Swap sandwich bread for greens where available to cut carbs while keeping the same flavors.
- Mix textures: creamy soup with crisp salad creates a satisfying contrast.
- Use combos to sample multiple best panera lunch items without paying for two full portions.
When looking at panera lunch combos, use these tips to find meals that match your taste and hunger. Thoughtful pairing highlights the best panera lunch items while keeping meals balanced and affordable.
Panera lunch specials, delivery and ordering tips
Looking for the best panera lunch specials and easy ordering methods can save you time and money. This guide will show you how to find delivery options, check local prices, and save money. You’ll learn how to order the lunch you want without any surprises.
Where to find delivery and third-party platforms
Panera delivery is available on big services like Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub. These apps show what you can order, how long it’ll take, and any fees. The delivery time and what’s available depend on the store’s hours and how busy it is.
How to check local panera lunch menu prices and availability
Use the Panera Bread app or visit their website to see current prices and what’s in stock. Delivery apps also show prices based on your location. If you call a Panera, they can tell you what’s available for your area.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | Smoked turkey, applewood-smoked bacon, tomato, lettuce on tomato basil bread | 720 | $9.99 |
| Grilled Chicken & Avocado BLT | Grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, mixed greens on artisan ciabatta | 640 | $10.49 |
| Mediterranean Veggie | Feta, cucumbers, peppers, hummus on artisan bread | 470 | $8.49 |
| Autumn Squash Soup (Bowl) | Creamy squash soup with warm spices, seasonal favorite | 260 | $5.29 |
| Broccoli Cheddar (Cup) | Rich cheddar with tender broccoli florets | 190 | $4.49 |
| Mac & Cheese (Kid) | Creamy pasta with classic cheddar | 310 | $3.99 |
| You Pick Two (Sandwich + Soup) | Half sandwich paired with cup of soup for a balanced meal | Varies | $7.99 |
| Greek Salad with Chicken | Mixed greens, feta, olives, grilled chicken | 520 | $9.29 |
Saving tips: memberships, promotions, and ordering strategies
Join MyPanera for points and special deals. Delivery services like Uber One can cut down on fees. Ordering at midday can get you faster service and better choices.
Try combos like You Pick Two for cheaper meals. Keep an eye out for seasonal specials and soups. For groups, pick family or group sizes to save money while keeping options open.
Frequently asked ordering questions
- Can I see exact panera lunch menu prices before ordering? Yes. Enter your address in the Panera app or a delivery app to view local pricing and availability.
- Do third-party apps always deliver Panera items? Delivery depends on location. Uber Eats, DoorDash, and Grubhub cover many areas; availability varies by store.
- Will MyPanera discounts apply on delivery? Some rewards apply in-app or in-store. Check reward terms before ordering for delivery.
- How can I lower delivery fees? Use subscription services like Uber One or look for platform promos that waive fees.
- Are panera lunch specials posted ahead of time? Specials often appear in the app and on the Panera website when active at your local bakery-café.
- Is curbside pickup available? Many locations offer curbside or express pickup through the Panera app for faster service.
- Can I customize items when ordering online? Yes. The Panera app and website let you modify bread, toppings, and dressings before checkout.
Dietary quick-check
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Veggie | No (contains dairy) | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Greek Salad with Chicken | No | Partial (skip croutons) | No | Dairy (feta), Tree Nuts possible in dressings |
| Autumn Squash Soup | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Dairy |
| Grilled Chicken & Avocado BLT | No | Partial (no bun) | No | Wheat, Egg (mayonnaise), Dairy possible |
| Mac & Cheese | No | No | No | Dairy, Wheat |
| Toasted Frontega Chicken | No | Partial (no bread) | No | Wheat, Dairy |
| Bagel (Plain) | No | No | No | Wheat, Sesame possible |
| Seasonal Fruit Cup | Yes | No | Yes | None typically, cross-contact possible |
Nutrition, allergens, and customization options
Knowing about nutrition and allergens helps you pick the right food from the panera bread lunch menu. This guide explains common allergens, calorie counts, and how changing ingredients can affect taste and nutrition. It helps you choose panera lunch options that meet your needs while keeping flavor in mind.
Common allergens across menu items and customization impact
Panera products often have wheat, milk, eggs, soy, tree nuts, peanuts, fish, and shellfish. Bakery items list specific allergens; for example, some cookies and pastries have wheat, milk, egg, and soy. The Bacon Turkey Bravo sandwich has wheat, milk, and egg allergens.
Removing cheese or swapping bread can lower dairy or gluten exposure. But, these steps don’t eliminate cross-contact risk. Always ask staff about ingredient lists and preparation steps if you have a severe allergy.
Calorie context and options for lighter lunches
Daily calorie needs vary. A 2,000-calorie benchmark helps compare items on the panera bread lunch menu. Choose half sandwiches, salads, or grain bowls without heavy dressings to lower calories. Soups like Chicken Noodle are lighter choices than creamy options.
The Panera app and nutrition pages show calorie counts for menu items. Swapping a full sandwich for a You Pick Two combo with a half sandwich plus soup or salad helps manage portions. This way, you can try more panera lunch options.
How customization (bread, toppings, dressings) changes nutrition and taste
Bread choice affects carbs and calories; ciabatta and focaccia raise both more than lighter bread or greens. Adding avocado boosts healthy fats and calories. Skipping cheese cuts saturated fat and reduces dairy allergens.
Dressings add flavor and sodium. Greek dressing and Green Goddess increase calories compared with vinaigrettes. Requesting dressing on the side or a smaller portion reduces calories. This lets you control seasoning without sacrificing taste among the best panera lunch items.
| Items | Vegan | Keto-Friendly | Gluten-Free | Allergens (Nuts, Dairy, etc.) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mediterranean Veggie Sandwich | No | No | No | Wheat, Milk |
| Mediterranean Bowl (Greens & Grains) | Yes* | No | No | Wheat (in grains), Milk (optional) |
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | No | No | No | Wheat, Milk, Egg |
| Chicken Noodle Soup | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg (in noodles), Milk (cross-contact possible) |
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | No | No | No | Milk, Wheat |
| Green Goddess Cobb Salad | No | No | Yes* (without croutons) | Egg, Milk, Tree Nuts (in some dressings) |
| Avocado, Egg & Cheese Breakfast Sandwich (lunch swap) | No | No | No | Wheat, Egg, Milk |
| Mac & Cheese (side) | No | No | No | Milk, Wheat |
| Kitchen Sink Cookie | No | No | No | Wheat, Soy, Milk, Egg, Tree Nuts (may contain) |
| Custom Salad (base greens, add-ons) | Yes | Yes (no croutons, low-carb toppings) | Yes* | Varies by add-on: Nuts, Dairy, Egg |
| Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | No | No | No | Wheat, Milk |
- Ask for ingredient lists in-store or via the app when you have allergies.
- Choose half portions, swap dressings, or order salads to trim calories.
- Custom swaps can keep flavor while adjusting nutrition across the best panera lunch items.
- Can removing cheese make items dairy-free? It lowers dairy but does not remove cross-contact risk.
- Are calorie counts location-specific? Yes, check the app or in-store nutrition details for your location.
- Is avocado a healthy add-on? It raises calories but adds healthy monounsaturated fats.
- Which soups are lower in calories? Broth-based soups like Chicken Noodle are often lighter than creamy options.
- Can Panera accommodate strict allergies? Staff can help, yet cross-contact remains possible.
- Does bread choice matter for carbs? Yes. Some breads are denser and higher in carbs than others.
- Will dressing on the side reduce calories? Yes, it gives control over portion and reduces added calories and sodium.
Customer favorites and reviews summary
Customer reviews show what people love and why. The most popular items are from the panera bread lunch menu. They appear in local ratings, taste tests, and delivery app lists. Here are the top picks, common praise, and some critiques to watch for.
Items like classic soups and favorite sandwiches get lots of love. Broccoli Cheddar is a big hit, followed by Autumn Squash Soup and Chicken Noodle. Mac and Cheese is a comfort food favorite.
On the sandwich side, the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt, Ciabatta Cheesesteak, and Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT get lots of praise. Independent taste panels say Bacon Turkey Bravo is the best, with Mediterranean Veggie close behind.
| Item Name | Description | Calories | Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Broccoli Cheddar Soup | Creamy cheddar base with tender broccoli pieces | 240 (cup) | $4.99 |
| Autumn Squash Soup | Seasonal roasted squash with warm spices | 200 (cup) | $5.29 |
| Chicken Noodle Soup | Classic broth with shredded chicken and noodles | 150 (cup) | $4.49 |
| Mac and Cheese | Creamy cheddar pasta, baked for a golden top | 410 (bowl) | $6.29 |
| Bacon Turkey Bravo | Smoked turkey, bacon, tomato, signature sauce | 620 | $8.49 |
| Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT | Grilled chicken, avocado, bacon, greens on artisan bread | 540 | $8.99 |
| Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt | Spicy chicken, avocado, melted cheese on toasted bread | 700 | $9.29 |
| Ciabatta Cheesesteak | Sliced steak, onions, melted cheese on ciabatta | 760 | $9.49 |
| Mediterranean Veggie | Roasted vegetables, feta, hummus, bold Mediterranean flavors | 420 | $7.49 |
| Half You Pick Two Combo | Half sandwich with soup or salad for a lighter lunch | Varies | $6.99+ |
People love the freshness, quality of soups, and bakery items. They also appreciate the convenience of delivery and pickup. Panera lunch specials and seasonal soups are big draws.
Some complaints include too much bread and uneven portions. Delivery timing can also affect the food’s temperature and taste.
Check local reviews for the latest on panera lunch specials near you. This helps you choose the best items for taste and value at your nearest bakery-cafe.
Conclusion
Panera’s lunch menu has something for everyone. You can choose from sandwiches, salads, grain bowls, soups, mac & cheese, sides, and bakery items. Favorites include the Bacon Turkey Bravo and the Mediterranean Vegetable sandwich.
Prices vary, with soups starting at about $8.39 and premium salads and bowls over $15. Sandwiches usually cost between $10 and $12. This variety makes it easy to find a meal that fits your taste and budget.
Ordering is easy with the Panera app or through Uber Eats. You can also try You Pick Two combos for a smaller meal. Remember to ask about allergens when customizing your order.
Seasonal items and regional specials add variety, but core options are the same everywhere. For a comforting lunch, go for fresh soups, balanced salads, and well-made sandwiches. They’re perfect for a quick, satisfying meal.
FAQ
What are Panera’s most popular lunch items right now?
Favorites include the Bacon Turkey Bravo and Grilled Chicken & Avo BLT. Also, the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt, Mediterranean Vegetable sandwich, and Autumn Squash Soup are hits. Broccoli Cheddar and Mac & Cheese are also loved. Reviews and local listings often highlight these items.
How much does a typical Panera lunch cost?
Prices vary by location. Soups are about .39–.99. Sandwiches are usually –, with many at .99. Premium salads or grain bowls cost around –. Bakery items like the Kitchen Sink Cookie are about .39. Always check local menus for exact prices.
What is the You Pick Two option and how does it work?
You Pick Two lets you mix two half-portions. This could be a half sandwich, half salad, cup of soup, mac & cheese, or bakery item. It’s great for lighter meals or sharing. The options and prices vary by store.
Which Panera soups are best for lunch and are group-size options available?
Top soups for lunch are Autumn Squash, Broccoli Cheddar, Chicken Noodle, and Mac & Cheese. Many locations offer group-size soups for –. These are perfect for office lunches or gatherings.
Are there good vegetarian or lighter lunch choices at Panera?
Yes. The Mediterranean Vegetable sandwich and plant-forward bowls like Mediterranean Greens with Grains are great. You can also choose half sandwiches, salads, or swap bread for greens to cut calories and carbs.
How do customization choices affect nutrition and allergens?
Changing bread type, cheese, avocado, and dressings can alter calories, fat, and carbs. Many items contain common allergens like wheat, milk, egg, soy, and tree nuts. Always ask about ingredients or speak with staff for allergen guidance.
Where can I find accurate local Panera lunch menus and prices?
For the most accurate local info, use the Panera app or website. Check the store’s page on delivery platforms like Uber Eats, DoorDash, Grubhub, or call the restaurant. Menu items and prices can change by location and over time.
What are good combo pairings for a balanced lunch?
Popular pairings include a sandwich with soup (Bacon Turkey Bravo + Autumn Squash). Or a salad or grain bowl with a half sandwich (Mediterranean Greens with Grains + half Mediterranean Vegetable). Soup plus mac & cheese is also a hearty option.
How can I save money when ordering Panera for lunch?
Join MyPanera for rewards and watch for seasonal promotions. Use delivery platform subscriptions for fee savings. Order You Pick Two to control cost and portion. Consider group-size soups or combo deals to lower the cost per person.
