CafeSalad ShopSandwich RestaurantBreakfast RestaurantSoup RestaurantTake Out RestaurantCoffee ShopBakeryRestaurant Delivery ServiceCatererPanera
From focusing on quality ingredients to serving our food to you in a warm and welcoming environment, Panera Bread is committed to being an ally to our guests. That means crafting a menu of soups, salads and sandwiches that we are proud to feed our families. You don’t have to compromise to eat well. Whether you want to come in and enjoy a coffee and our complimentary Wi-Fi, or order online using Rapid Pick-Up so you can grab something quickly, Panera Bread Gardendale is here with warmth and welcome. Panera Bread. Food as it should be.
Customers frequently reported slow service, incorrect orders, and unhelpful staff, particularly in the drive-thru and during busy times.
Food Quality
There were numerous complaints about food quality, including stale ingredients, incorrect items, and poor preparation.
Cleanliness
Several reviews mentioned cleanliness issues, particularly in dining areas and restrooms, impacting the overall dining experience.
Customer Service
While some staff were praised for their friendliness, others were criticized for rudeness and lack of professionalism, especially management.
Menu Availability
Customers expressed frustration over frequently being out of menu items and recent changes that removed popular options.
AS
Andy Sharples
1 day ago
2.0
I enjoy Panera iced coffee. I get one almost daily. Sadly they don’t know how to make iced coffee at this location. I have visited here several times en route to/from Birmingham. One time I complained that it was too thin. They remade it. And it was the same incorrect concentration. Please let me know when you get this fixed.
TF
Tamie Fernandez
Jan 1, 2026
5.0
Always a good choice
CB
Casey Benefield
Nov 30, 2025
1.0
This is probably the last time we go to Panera.... and you can thank the GM. I drove 30min from Sylvan Springs for breakfast for my wife and child... Round trip is an hour... Chatted about 3D printing during a time where there were barely any customers.
Whoever bags the other checks all four checks, seals the bag, and still doesn't get what I ordered in the bag, the Creme Brulee bites.
I called and spoke to the GM Daniel, who seemed way too comfortable with refusing a partial refund, which is against Visa merchant terms and conditions, per some supposed Panera policy, which evidently allows customers to be ripped off. He threw his cashier under the bus, blaming him for not getting it. Where is the integrity?
He gave me a non-working corporate number, told me he's given it out so much that he memorized it.
This should scream "we might not be doing something right," but it seems all we get for taking the money and not providing the product is a cheap apology.
Here's the fun part. I wore AI glasses, and have video of this, and a recording of the call. They should be embarrassed not because they got caught, but because McDonald's treats customers better.
MS
Mike Studwell
Nov 28, 2025
5.0
was a great break from the interstate. food to order and tasted great.
blueberry muffin was wonderful too.
DB
Delane Bairrow
Nov 18, 2025
5.0
The food is great. The drive thru could use some work. It is very slow, so do not be in a hurry and go through the drive thru. The employees are nice and I am sure they are doing the best they can.
Does Panera Bread in Gardendale accept reservations?
No, Panera Bread in Gardendale does not accept reservations.
What are the opening hours for delivery at Panera Bread Gardendale?
Delivery is available Monday through Saturday from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM, and on Sunday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.
Can I order Panera Bread online for delivery or rapid pick-up?
Yes, you can order online for delivery or rapid pick-up through their website or mobile app.
What types of meals does Panera Bread Gardendale serve?
Panera Bread Gardendale serves breakfast, brunch, lunch, and dinner.
Does Panera Bread Gardendale offer catering and fundraising services?
Yes, they offer catering and fundraising services along with other community programs.
Is Panera Bread Gardendale wheelchair accessible and family-friendly?
Yes, the location has wheelchair-accessible entrances, parking, seating, restrooms, and welcomes families and children.
What payment options are accepted at Panera Bread Gardendale?
Panera Bread accepts American Express, Cash, Discover, MasterCard, and Visa.
What are some nearby places I can visit around Panera Bread Gardendale?
Nearby places include Worry Free Carpet Cleaners, Shoney's restaurant, Mr B's Carwash, Yogurt Mountain for desserts, AT&T store, Taco Bell, Ace Hardware, and Buffalo Wild Wings.
How can nearby businesses like Yogurt Mountain and Waffle House complement my visit to Panera Bread Gardendale?
After enjoying a meal at Panera Bread, you can visit Yogurt Mountain for frozen yogurt desserts or Waffle House for additional breakfast and brunch options nearby.
Are there convenience services such as car wash or mobile phone repair close to Panera Bread Gardendale?
Yes, Mr B's Carwash and uBreakiFix - Gardendale for mobile phone and electronics repair are located nearby, which you can utilize when visiting the area.