Panera Bread - Fullerton

I rated the food 3 stars because I feel it's similar to cafeteria food. I don't blame the employees for this though. Service also got 3 stars because I noticed that most customers don't interact much with the staff, which is a bit disappointing. However, I gave 5 stars for atmosphere because they are accommodating with charging devices and allowing customers to stay as long as they'd like. The calm and peaceful environment seems to cater to students and business people. Overall, I love Panerai!

I have been frequenting this restaurant for months now, and overall it is fine. It is difficult to be overly critical of a restaurant or service business that is struggling with a shortage of quality staff these days. However, I did have a concerning experience in the restroom when I tried to put my backpack on the diaper changing station. I noticed that it was scattered with brown spots, which appeared to be either mold or feces, likely left behind by homeless individuals or babies. This raised red flags for me as the management should be paying close attention to basic sanitation measures, especially in light of recent pandemic concerns.

The management is excellent and the staff is welcoming. They greet you with a warm "Thank you". The Panera on Boulevard near Costco has a drive-thru, but the service is awful. I will make a special effort to support the Panera near Cal State Fullerton!

Today, the restaurant had the slowest staff I have ever encountered in the mid-morning hours. The manager who was working the register appeared exhausted with dark circles under his eyes, resembling a zombie who had not slept. He moved slowly as he refilled the coffee pots, showing a need for caffeine more than any of the customers. The rest of the staff seemed disinterested, appearing lethargic and either hiding in the kitchen or on their phones in a corner. The lackadaisical attitude of the management was reflected in the employees, and it was evident in the cleanliness and organization of the restaurant as well.

This place is overpriced and not that good. I do not recommend coming here. We are very disappointed in the service and food. Bread was not warm. Chicken was dry and the only thing that we good was the free refill.