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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 Crystal Lake is here with warmth and welcome. Panera Bread. Food as it should be.
Multiple reviews highlighted rude or unhelpful staff, with specific incidents of poor customer service and order mistakes.
Cleanliness
Several customers reported dirty dining areas and unclean tables, impacting their overall experience.
Portion Sizes
Many customers expressed dissatisfaction with the small portion sizes relative to the prices, feeling that they did not receive good value for their money.
Food Quality
While some customers praised the food, others reported issues with food preparation, temperature, and overall quality.
Positive Staff Experiences
Despite the negative feedback, there were also positive mentions of friendly and helpful staff members who provided good service.
SW
Shelly W
Dec 28, 2025
1.0
No thank you! The young cashier with blonde hair, I didn’t catch her name but I’m sorry if you don’t like your job then why are you even working? You were absolutely RUDE with everything! I cancelled my order told the manager which did nothing go figure. You are the most cleanest Panera bread I have been to but never again. Sad how 1 rude cashier can make me and my family cancel a food order for dine in to just go somewhere else. And to the manager do better!! Sunday at 12:30 pm
TK
Thomas Kolanko
Dec 10, 2025
1.0
3 Weeks ago, I ordered food to go. One of the cups that holds the soups decided to fail. It is made from cardboard and covered with a waxy film. The cup failed and left a bubble on the bottom and leaked all over my daughter's hand. Reported it too corporate and nothing happened. Got 1 call missed it and I called back. Never called back. The manager at the Crystal Lake did what he was supposed to do. Thank you to him. #Harmaofmanagement return my call.
MJ
Matt Jordan
Nov 22, 2025
5.0
Great food and amazing staff
CM
Cheri Moehling
Nov 15, 2025
2.0
Portions have gotten small, no flavor to sandwich
PH
Pamela Hudson
Nov 6, 2025
5.0
We met my son, daughter-in-law and granddaughters for lunch. My daughter-in-law arrived before us and said that Ethan had pulled together a table for our group, adjusted the blinds as it was warm in there and offered some broken cookies for the kids as they couldn't be sold. Another gentleman came and cleared some plates. The staff couldn't have been nicer. We enjoyed our lunch.
Does Panera Bread in Crystal Lake accept reservations?
No, Panera Bread in Crystal Lake does not accept reservations.
What are the opening hours of Panera Bread Crystal Lake?
Panera Bread Crystal Lake is open from 6:00 AM to 9:00 PM Monday through Saturday, and from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM on Sundays.
Does Panera Bread Crystal Lake offer delivery and takeout services?
Yes, Panera Bread Crystal Lake offers delivery and takeout services, including Rapid Pick-Up and curbside pickup.
What types of meals are served at Panera Bread Crystal Lake?
Panera Bread Crystal Lake serves breakfast, lunch, brunch, and dinner.
What are some of the special menu items Panera Bread Crystal Lake offers?
Specialities include You Pick Two options, Power Menu, Hand-Tossed Salads, Freshly-Baked Artisan and Specialty Breads, Flatbread Sandwiches, Soup in a Breadbowl, and Vegetarian Broth Bowls.
What payment methods does Panera Bread Crystal Lake accept?
They accept American Express, cash, Discover, Mastercard, and Visa.
Is there free Wi-Fi available at Panera Bread in Crystal Lake?
Yes, Panera Bread Crystal Lake offers complimentary Wi-Fi to customers.
What nearby places can I visit when dining at Panera Bread Crystal Lake?
Nearby you can visit shopping centers like CrystalPoint and department stores such as Kmart and Bed Bath & Beyond, or unwind at Mega Trampoline for active fun before or after your meal.
Are there other food options nearby Panera Bread Crystal Lake?
Yes, nearby options include Jamba for smoothies, Arby’s and Five Guys for fast food, Potbelly Sandwich Shop and Which Wich for sandwiches, and Sushi U for Asian cuisine.
Are there medical services near Panera Bread Crystal Lake?
Yes, several medical facilities are nearby including Advocate Health Care, Dr. Gilbert N. Egekeze M.D., Dr. Irma Oliff M.D., and LabCorp for laboratory testing.