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Tabitha White
Feb 12, 2026
Food was great but absolutely horrible customer service. I asked for the girls name in the window because she got rude and raised her voice at my mother when she was trying to order she cut her off mid sentence and said “you gone have to speak up I ain’t heard none of that” and then again “ma’am speak up” she would not give me her name and I asked the other man working and he went and started talking to her and then came back and told me he had no clue what her name was. The receipt said Abbie but I’m unsure she had long braids in her hair and was just absolutely so rude. Will not be going back to the Gardendale location. People should not work the window if they are going to be nasty. Panera needs to fire this girl.
ME
Marlinda Exceus
Feb 7, 2026
My experience at Panera Bread was more than just walking in to grab food. From the moment I entered, I noticed the kiosk, and as Eli was passing by he acknowledged me. I understand he was in a process of actually doing something, but the fact that he stopped in his tracks once he noticed me, he immediately acknowledged me.
Within seconds he made me felt welcomed, genuinely and was ready to assist.
I asked each team member for two recommendations that are commonly served, and I chose the option that appealed most to me.
Eli’s recommendation, the Pomegranate Hibiscus Tea, was refreshing and perfect for the morning before a long day on the road.
While I was at the kiosk, Eli stepped away briefly, and when it was time to order my food, I noticed MarKayla working and asked about the soup.
She let me know it was not available until after 11am. With the team assistance throughout the process and made sure everything went smoothly.
When MarKayla didn’t have a straightforward answer to give me, she went to someone at a higher position to get the answer. It’s not just the action, it tells you a lot about that Individuals natural characteristic.
The location is only 0.2 miles from the highway, which is very convenient for an OTR Sprinter operator like myself.
*IF YOU ARE EXPECTING A SWEET TASTE, DO NOT PURCHASE THIS BECAUSE THIS ISN’T SWEET TEA. IT IS POMEGRANATE HIBISCUS TEA.*
Overall, this was a refreshing experience, not just a stop for food but great service and a great team positive energy.
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Brooke Aaron
Feb 5, 2026
I asked for a chipotle chicken avocado melt and specified that I wanted extra avacado, mayonnaise, and no peppers. How did I end up getting a cranberry walnut chicken salad? I don’t like cranberries or walnuts 😭
I don't normally post and say bad, but this time after 5 attempts it deserves posting. I always eat the same thing and ask for it to be done the same way Everytime. 5 times only one time done right! Grilled cheese crispy toasted bread and soup. I got spongy slightly toasted grilled cheese and the girl who answered the phone wanted to argue saying it felt hard when she wrapped it. No one takes responsibility for their actions. I have video of the soft spongy bread. I guess that is not allowed to post, If I could post it I will. 2 sandwiches both spongy soft! Consistency is the key. That's what I learned when cooking!
KB
kamron brantley
Jan 14, 2026
I come here every day as a hangout spot, the employees are amazing and very sweet (They all deserve raises) The food is amazing, especially the desserts, they are to die for!!! The atmosphere is top notch, especially at night with their lights on the outside patio or the windows seats. All in all, if you're in the area, you should swing by for the extremely polite employees and amazing food.