Panera Bread - Selinsgrove

I waited 17 minutes in the drive-thru for just one bagel. There were no cars behind me, and the parking lot wasn’t full, so it didn’t seem overly busy. I consider myself a patient person and understand that restaurants can get hectic and understaffed. However, I felt like I was forgotten after receiving my coffee. I wasn't sure whether to knock on the window, honk, or just drive away without my order. Finally, another car pulled up, and that’s when I was handed my bagel. By then, it was cold, which I suspect happened because they overlooked me at the window. I usually go to Dunkin’, but their drive-thru was packed, so I thought Panera would be a quicker option—unfortunately, I was mistaken. I hope they can improve this situation, as not every customer will be as understanding and patient if they have to wait that long.

This Panera has a vibe reminiscent of Starbucks from years ago. There's plenty of outdoor seating, and the tables and flooring inside are well maintained. I placed a Rapid Pick-Up order on their opening Sunday. While the coffee was quite bitter, it was no fault of theirs—it was piping hot! The reason I'm giving only three stars is that the customer service didn't match the upscale atmosphere. No one spoke to or acknowledged me in any way, despite there being only one other customer present. They weren't busy; in fact, one employee even pulled up a chair to sit and chat with that customer. A simple gesture of acknowledgment would have gone a long way in making me feel welcome. It felt like the staff was just waiting for me to leave. Where's the small-town charm?

Be sure to double-check your order before you leave. I had three separate instances where they forgot to include the turkey on my sandwich, and then they were quite rude about it! I would recommend going elsewhere.

Staff here are very warm. They greet you and clean up after you. Panera had gotten way too expensive though. Food was tasty. $23 for brownie, chili, fruit cup, sandwich and drink..

Food and service is fine. It's when your order is ready and they buzz you. Other people waiting at the pick up window. The preparers just set your food on the counter and buzz you and walk away. No one knows whose dish is whos when you 2 or 3 disheslaying on the counter. That's the only thing I don't like about Panera.