Panera Bread

3.5
474 reviews
Toasted Italiano & Balsamic Chicken Greens with Grains

About

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 El Cajon is here with warmth and welcome. Panera Bread. Food as it should be.

Details

  • Dine-inAvailable
  • DeliveryAvailable
  • TakeoutAvailable
  • Accepts reservationsNot available

Location

Panera Bread
733 Fletcher Parkway, El Cajon, CA
92021, United States

Hours

Reviews

3.5
474 reviews
5 stars
229
4 stars
52
3 stars
42
2 stars
33
1 star
118

What are people saying?

AI-generated from recent customer reviews

Drive-Thru Issues

Customers frequently reported long wait times and poor service in the drive-thru, with some experiencing waits of over 30 minutes.

Food Quality

Many reviews mentioned inconsistent food quality, with complaints about cold food, incorrect orders, and small portion sizes.

Customer Service

While some staff were praised for their friendliness, numerous reviews highlighted rude or unhelpful management and staff, leading to negative customer experiences.

Cleanliness

Several customers noted cleanliness issues, particularly in restrooms and dining areas, which detracted from their overall experience.

Pricing Concerns

Many customers felt that the prices were too high for the quality and portion sizes of the food offered.
  • DY
    Daddyo Young
    2 days ago
    2.0
    Chicken egg and avocado , for almost ten dollars is there a chicken shortage? Wow I am usually always satisfied coming here but this morning was rough. Service was great as always but my last ten dollars could have been spent elsewhere today, not cool
  • JP
    Joshua Petrick
    Dec 31, 2025
    1.0
    Wow, 25 minute drive thru wait is RIDICULOUS!! Please bring your grass to at least watch grow. Good thing I didn't have an appointment to be at, because once your in this line prepare to wait a long time.
  • OM
    Ozenoz Media
    Dec 6, 2025
    4.0
    Great place, but overpriced for undersized portions on food and beverages.
  • RF
    Randee Ferry
    Nov 18, 2025
    5.0
    Chili and harvest salad were great. A little too much salad dressing. Next time I will ask for dressing on the side.
  • KC
    Kathryn Clauzel
    Nov 18, 2025
    2.0
    Truly my least favorite Panera that I’ve been to, and I love Panera so I’ve been to a few. Giving two stars only because the inside is always clean and chill, but the drive-through absolutely sucks. Every single time I’m in the drive-through, I’ve waited at LEAST 15 to 20 minutes. It’s absurd. I’ve waited upwards of 40 minutes before. No apologies for the wait, or any sign of concern. It’s happened at least 5 to 6 times.

Frequently Asked Questions About Panera Bread

Does Panera Bread in El Cajon accept reservations?

No, Panera Bread in El Cajon does not accept reservations.

What are the operating hours of Panera Bread El Cajon?

Panera Bread El Cajon is open Monday through Saturday from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM and on Sunday from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM.