Highlights
- Great coffee
- Great tea selection
oChef » Panera Bread – San Diego
Panera Bread - San Diego
Photo from Panera Bread
Panera Bread at a glance
San Diego Ocean View Hills
- ☕ Café
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 77 of the guests
#677 out of 755 places to eat in San Diego
#60 Café out of 65 in San Diego
Average
5.1 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
391
Reviews
41.9%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Comfortable setting
- Tasty food
- Good service
Frequently criticized
- Expensive menu
- Long waits
- Service issues
The cafe Panera Bread in San Diego’s Ocean View Hills neighborhood offers a welcoming spot where you can enjoy a great coffee. You’ll find a cozy and casual atmosphere, perfect for a quick bite or a relaxed meal.
With a focus on healthy options, including delicious vegan and vegetarian choices, it’s a convenient stop for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Whether you’re grabbing a coffee or settling in, you’ll appreciate the friendly vibe.
Overview: Introducting Panera Bread
Panera Bread offers a generally pleasant environment, often described as clean and peaceful, making it a comfortable spot for a meal. While many find the food items flavorful and appreciate the convenience of their drive-thru, experiences with service can be quite varied.
Customers frequently highlight the helpfulness of the staff, yet concerns about waiting time and the overall price point are common. The menu includes some well-regarded items, but some find certain portions small for the cost.
Average
5.1
out of 10
391
Reviews
41.9%
Satisfaction
208
negative
19
neutral
164
positive
Overall, Panera Bread registers an average Restaurant Score of 5.1, with Customer Satisfaction sitting at a mixed 41.9%. This assessment is drawn from 391 customer opinions, where negative feedback (208) slightly outweighs positive remarks (164).
Looking closer at the specifics, the Ambience (6.5) stands out as a good aspect, often praised for its relaxing atmosphere. However, Food (5.5) and Service (4.4) both land in the average category, with service sometimes noted for inconsistencies.
The Value (3.3) topic, unfortunately, indicates a clear area for improvement, frequently cited as a concern.
What people like
- Clean, peaceful environment
- Flavorful food items
- Attentive staff
What people don't like
- High prices
- Excessive wait times
- Inconsistent service
If you’re seeking a comfortable spot with a generally pleasant atmosphere and don’t mind potentially higher prices, Panera Bread could be a suitable choice for a casual meal. Their Recommendation Score of 5.2 suggests a mixed bag, indicating it might be worth a try for specific menu items.
However, be prepared for potential inconsistencies in service and consider the value proposition carefully, as many customers find it on the pricier side. It’s a place that can deliver a good experience, but it’s not without its drawbacks.
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Verdict: Our expert take on Panera Bread
Food (5.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 84% of the guests
Many folks rave about the fresh and tasty options, from exquisite food to quality coffee and vegetarian choices. With 77 positive remarks, its clear theres a lot to love about the menu, offering a good selection of comfort food and pastries. However, some experiences highlight issues with small portions, poorly made sandwiches, and even horrible taste in certain items.
With 66 negative comments, there are concerns about missing items and inconsistent food quality, leading to a mixed customer satisfaction of 49.7% and an average score of 5.5.
Food
155
Reviews
49%
Satisfaction
66
negative
12
neutral
77
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Fresh and tasty food
- Good variety of options
- Quality coffee and tea
What people don't like
- Inconsistent portion sizes
- Poorly made sandwiches
- Inconsistent food quality
Often praised
- foodThe new staff were friendly and supported my order, but it did take a little longer time than expected to complete the order. The food is good, and I particularly liked their creamy cheese soup. The place is clean and tidy, and I enjoyed the time spent.
- breadI hope they can work out their kinks. They deserve less stars, but the bread was delish & customer service really tried their best.
- coffeesimple, great tasting coffee drinkers
- flavorthe flavor is genial
- food qualitythe food quality at those places may not be as good
- iced teaI love their iced tea
- tasteThe taste was amazing
- EverythingEverything is delicious!!
- FoodFood:5
- French Onion soupSandwich and a bowl of French Onion soup
Frequently criticized
- foodMy experience at this restaurant was unfortunately cut short before it even began. I needed a plug, and upon observing a staff member adjust themselves, I was completely grossed out and unable to order any food. I ended up going to Jersey Mike's next door, where I found a plug.
- sandwich😞 I paid almost $14 for a small bag of chips and their new chicken sandwich that only has a little bit of Arugula and barely any sauce. This sandwich is for a kid not an adult. The sandwich was too plain and I will not spend my money again at Panera.
- breadthey run out of bread because they were too busy
- avocadoRice, and paid extra for avocado 🥑. However, there was not much avocado on my bagel. She stated, "That's the amount.
- chicken sandwich🗑 I came in today specifically for that new chicken sandwich and I was disappointed. 😞 I paid almost $14 for a small bag of chips and their new chicken sandwich that only has a little bit of Arugula and barely any sauce. This sandwich is for a kid not an adult.
- coffeeI visited roughly three weeks ago on a Sunday evening and it was quite an experience. They were 86 on literally all soda beverages, 86 on bread bowls, and 86 on coffee. The dining room was obliterated; I ended up bussing a table myself with a sani-towel I found next to the Pepsi machine.
- pastriesdidnt add my pastries
- portion sizeHowever, my second visit was a disappointment. I was surprised by the small portion size of arugula, thinking it was too expensive for just that. No mamms!
- soufflégive me another soufflé uncovered tossed in a paper bag
- Mediterranean bowlordered a mediterranean bowl w/ no chicken & they gave me chicken
Overall, the food here presents a bit of a mixed bag. While many find delicious and fresh options, be aware that consistency and portion sizes can be a hit or miss. It might be worth trying for specific items, but manage your expectations.
Service (4.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 77% of the guests
Service here can be a mixed bag, but many customers rave about the friendly staff and amazing staff who provide fast service and handle mobile orders efficiently. With 49 positive remarks out of 162, theres definitely a bright side to the teams efforts, contributing to an average score of 4.4. However, the overall customer satisfaction sits at a poor 30.2%, largely due to frequent complaints about long wait times and wrong orders.
With 107 negative comments, issues like poor customer service and even rude interactions suggest significant room for improvement in consistency and attention to detail.
Service
162
Reviews
30%
Satisfaction
107
negative
6
neutral
49
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Efficient mobile ordering
- Fast order fulfillment
What people don't like
- Long wait times
- Incorrect orders
- Poor customer service
Often praised
- serviceThe tuna sandwich was prepared perfectly, and the service was outstanding. Evelyn was incredibly professional and attentive, making the meal even more enjoyable. This is hands-down my favorite location, with the entire staff being amazing.
- staffThe environment was quiet, peaceful, and spotless. Staff were kind and the place was well-organized. Nothing felt rushed or messy.
- customer serviceI hope they can work out their kinks. They deserve less stars, but the bread was delish & customer service really tried their best.
- drive-thruHow many Paneras have a drive thru????!!!!
- orderthis Panera has my order on deck READY
- ServiceService:5
- amazing staffhas an amazing staff
- appLove using the app place your order
- attentionexcellent attention of the girl at the cash register
- cashierCashier acknowledge us and let is know that he would be with us as soon as he could.
Frequently criticized
- waiting timetook a little longer time then expected to complete order
- orderIt took an excessive 40 minutes just to reach the drive-thru window, despite only having one car ahead of me. To make matters worse, my order was completely wrong. Both the drink and the sandwich were incorrect, which was a significant letdown after such a long wait.
- customer serviceno greeting or customer service from her being implemented
- wait timetook an excessive 40 minutes just to reach the drive-thru window
- staffIt seemed like one of the shift leads (the one in the polo shirt) was cooking and running all over the place. There's definitely an opportunity for the remainder of the staff to step up, and maybe to speak to her so she doesn't feel the need to be a 'super manager'. Trying to help, this is my local Panera, I hope you all do great and read this as constructive.
- managerthe manager did not take it seriously at all
- serviceit was like if Ella wanted me out of there ASAP
- waitHe truly takes pride in the appearance and service at his establishment. Although my bagel took a little longer to come out, the manager, without any prompting, offered a small complimentary item to apologize for the wait. This was not necessary but greatly appreciated!
- AnaAna with her robotic and dry demeanor
- Manager, Ms. RiceShe stated, "That's the amount."
If you're lucky, you might experience top-notch service and quick order fulfillment, especially with mobile orders. But be prepared for potential frustrations like long waits or incorrect orders, as consistency seems to be a challenge here.
Ambience (6.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 35% of the guests
The ambience here presents a bit of a mixed picture, with an overall score of 6.5, placing it in the average category. Customer satisfaction, however, leans slightly more positive at 66.7%, suggesting a mixed but generally acceptable experience. Many of the 36 positive remarks highlight a clean and well lit environment, often praising the parking options and describing it as a comfortable place to be.
However, 18 negative comments reveal some noticeable drawbacks. Guests have encountered crowded conditions, particularly due to high schoolers, leading to no seats and dirty tables. Issues with the bathroom and a general lack of warmth in the dining area also detract from the overall experience.
Ambience
54
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
18
negative
0
neutral
36
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Clean and well-lit
- Plenty of parking
- Calm atmosphere
What people don't like
- Dirty tables
- Bathroom issues
- Overly crowded
Often praised
- placeThe food is good, and I particularly liked their creamy cheese soup. The place is clean and tidy, and I enjoyed the time spent.
- atmosphereThe place is large and spacious inside. It was very relaxing and everyone around seemed to be enjoying their meals. The food was ready very quickly but was very fresh.
- environmentThe environment was quiet, peaceful, and spotless
- experienceit was a great experience
- AtmosphereAtmosphere:5
- Free parking lotParking options:Free parking lot
- Parking optionsFree parking lot
- Parking spacePlenty of parking
- Plenty of parkingParking space:Plenty of parking
- ambianceThe ambiance of the place
Frequently criticized
- bathroomthe bathroom was a wreck
- carpet foodcarpet with food on the floor
- cleanlinessjust to see that makes me not want to return
- crowdedThe food was terrible. The place was full of high schoolers, making it very crowded with no seats available due to all the kids. The overall atmosphere was also poor.
- dining areait was dirty, it seems like they don't regularly clean the dining area
- dining experienceessentially on your own in this "dining" experience
- dining roomThey were 86 on literally all soda beverages, 86 on bread bowls, and 86 on coffee. The dining room was obliterated; I ended up bussing a table myself with a sani-towel I found next to the Pepsi machine. It wasn't even busy, just people posted up in the seating area near expo.
- dirty tablestables all dirty
- experiencethe experience at the restaurant has alot to said
- glassesMy experience was very negative. First, they started hiding the glasses, then the prepared drinks. What's next?
If you're seeking a spot with good parking and a potentially calm, clean environment, this place could work for you. Just be aware that it might get crowded, and some guests have noted issues with cleanliness, particularly in the restrooms.
Value (3.3 out of 10)
mentioned by 17% of the guests
When it comes to value, there are a couple of bright spots, with 2 positive remarks out of 20 total. Guests appreciate a good two for one deal and find some options to be an alternativa económica rica. It seems that when the price is right, especially with a deal, it can hit the mark.
However, the overall sentiment leans heavily negative, with 17 negative remarks. Many feel the food is expensive and overpriced, especially when paying extra for avocado thats barely there. Small portions for high costs, feeling ripped off', and issues with subscriptions contribute to a low score of 3.3 and a customer satisfaction of only 10%, indicating significant room for improvement.
Value
20
Reviews
10%
Satisfaction
17
negative
1
neutral
2
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Two for one deal
What people don't like
- High prices
- Small portions
- Poor value
Often praised
- pricealternativa económica rica
- two for one dealThe two for one deal is an awesome combo
Frequently criticized
- price🗑 I came in today specifically for that new chicken sandwich and I was disappointed. 😞 I paid almost $14 for a small bag of chips and their new chicken sandwich that only has a little bit of Arugula and barely any sauce. This sandwich is for a kid not an adult.
- expensivePanera is expensive I get it
- pricesat these prices, they should be able to pay their workers a living wage
- bad choicedefinitely bad choice of establishment
- extra for avocadopaid extra for avocado 🥑 and there was not much avocado
- foodOnly downside is the food is VERY expensive. It was $40 for only my kids to both eat and I had whatever was leftover. But if you like a fresh healthy meal in an unexpectedly relaxed environment, and price doesn't bother you, I highly recommend this location for a great lunch.
- paymentI had payed more than $60 in food for my family
- subscriptionI was very irritated by this situation and found the staff to be rude. Due to this experience, I will be canceling my subscription for unlimited drinks.
If youre looking for a great deal, keep an eye out for their two for one offers, as those seem to be a hit. Otherwise, be prepared for potentially expensive and overpriced items, especially if youre expecting generous portions. It might be a place to skip if value is your top priority.
How are the prices at Panera Bread?
You’re looking at roughly 24 per person – reported by 77 diners. That puts it in the $21–$30 category. For a Cafe, it’s comfortably mid-range: not a steal, but not bank-breaking either.
Interestingly, while the average is 24, most guests actually spend less, with a big chunk of prices falling into the $11–$20 range. This suggests a nice mix of options, from more budget-friendly bites to some slightly higher-end treats.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, using the 77 most recent reviews.
Heres how this spots value for money stacks up against similar restaurants in San Diego.
Overall, we think the pricing here feels quite fair for a Cafe, especially with the variety of options available. It offers good value whether you’re looking for a quick, affordable bite or something a little more substantial.
Customer Reviews: what people think about Panera Bread
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Takeout
Meal Type
- Breakfast
2
Inconsistent Soufflé Packaging
My experience at the restaurant was marked by inconsistency in food handling. Today, I ordered a four cheese soufflé through the drive-thru. It was delivered unboxed, alongside other wrapped food items.
When I returned to inquire, the cashier stated they usually come in a bag and provided another soufflé, this time uncovered and in a paper bag. This is particularly confusing as I received the same soufflé in a small box just yesterday. It seems food handling practices are not a specialty here.
- soufflé2
- food handling1
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Lunch
Noise Level
- Loud
2
Terrible Food and Crowded Atmosphere
My experience at this restaurant was quite negative. I was amazed they are still in business. The food was terrible.
The place was full of high schoolers, making it very crowded with no seats available due to all the kids. The overall atmosphere was also poor.
- food1
- high schoolers2
- crowded2
Visit Type
- Regular Visit
Service Type
- Dine-in
7
Delicious Food, Awful Bathroom Smell
My experience at the restaurant was great, with the food being delicious as always. However, the bathroom had a terrible smell, as if there was a plumbing issue, even though it looked clean.
- food10
- bathroom2
- plumbing issue3
Price per Person
- $11–$20
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Dinner
Noise Level
- Quiet
9
Excellent Service and Food!
My experience at this restaurant was fantastic. The tuna sandwich was prepared perfectly, and the service was outstanding. Evelyn was incredibly professional and attentive, making the meal even more enjoyable.
This is hands-down my favorite location, with the entire staff being amazing. It's evident that management is doing an excellent job training them. Thank you for taking such great care of your customers!
- tuna sandwich9
- service10
- staff10
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Quick Meal
Service Type
- Dine-in
Meal Type
- Breakfast
Wait Time
- Long (31+ min.)
9
Great Manager, Appreciated Gesture
My experience at this restaurant was positive, largely due to the great manager. He truly takes pride in the appearance and service at his establishment. Although my bagel took a little longer to come out, the manager, without any prompting, offered a small complimentary item to apologize for the wait.
This was not necessary but greatly appreciated!
- manager10
- appearance and service9
- bagel6
- wait4
What Panera Bread offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible parking lot
- Wheelchair accessible seating
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- Family-friendly
- Tourists
- Groups
- College students
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
Children
- Kids' menu
- Good for kids
- High chairs
Popular for
- Breakfast
- Solo dining
- Dinner
- Lunch
Amenities
- Restroom
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Healthy options
- Vegan options
- Coffee
- Small plates
- Vegetarian options
- Quick bite
Dining options
- Catering
- Breakfast
- Brunch
- Dessert
- Dinner
- Seating
- Lunch
Service Options
- Drive-through
- No-contact delivery
- Onsite services
- Takeout
- Outdoor seating
- Dine-in
- Delivery
Pets
- Dogs allowed outside
Parking
- Free street parking
- Free parking lot
- Usually plenty of parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
- Quiet
- Trendy
FAQs
What service options and accessibility features does Panera Bread offer?
At Panera Bread, you can choose from convenient service options like drive-through, no-contact delivery, takeout, and dine-in. You’ll also find outdoor seating available. The cafe is fully wheelchair accessible, including the entrance, parking lot, seating, and restrooms, ensuring a comfortable visit for everyone.
What kind of dining experience and amenities can you expect at Panera Bread?
Panera Bread provides a cozy and casual atmosphere, ideal for breakfast, brunch, lunch, or dinner. You can enjoy healthy, vegetarian, and vegan options, along with great coffee. For families, there’s a kids’ menu and high chairs, making it good for children. Plus, you’ll find free Wi-Fi and restrooms available.
How does Panera Bread generally perform according to customer feedback?
Panera Bread holds an average Restaurant Score of 5.1. While Ambience (6.5) is generally good, Food (5.5) and Service (4.4) are average, and Value (3.3) is an area needing significant improvement.
What are common complaints about Panera Bread?
Customers frequently express concerns about high prices, with some finding items expensive for the portion size. Inconsistent service, including long wait times and occasional order errors, is also a recurring issue.
What do customers appreciate about Panera Bread?
Many customers enjoy the clean, peaceful environment and relaxing atmosphere. Specific food items like their bread, coffee, and certain soups are often praised for their flavor, and some locations offer convenient drive-thru service.