I have heard about the wonders of Panera Bread from friends, but have never tasted it myself…until now! When I saw the sign go up for the new Panera Bread in Metairie, I think I may have squealed followed by continuous stalking for an opening date. I am happy to announce that the restaurant opened on July 17th!
The day before the opening, Panera Bread partnered with Second Harvest Food Bank of Greater New Orleans and Acadiana. One in eight people in Louisiana struggle with hunger and this non-profit helps through food distribution, education, advocacy and disaster response. Panera Bread hosted a charity tasting event at its newest location selling tickets for $15 a person. Patrons got a sneak peak of the new restaurant and the opportunity to taste from the menu.
I decided to try the “Pick 2” where you can select a any combination of soup, salad or sandwich. I went with the Caesar salad and the Frontega Chicken sandwich which were both delicious. Plus, if you get a combo you get to select a pastry, too (can you say carrot cake?)! I absolutely cannot wait to go back to try different items off the menu.
Because I lead a hectic lifestyle, it is inevitable that some meals will have to be on-the-go. I am glad to have another option that serves healthy and kid friendly items. The food was delicious and the service was very friendly and quick for the large crowd that came to support Second Harvest. If you would like to learn more about Second Harvest or donate food, fan them on Facebook!
We LOVE Panera Bread, so when we heard that one was coming our way in Metairie, we were beside ourselves!! We’ve only been there once to get coffee after mass on Sunday, but we plan on going for lunch or dinner soon once the crowds die down from its newness. The variety and the wholesome quality of the foods offered there make Panera Bread a huge favorite of ours!
It opened on my birthday!
I love Panera but my hubby isn’t a big fan so we don’t go very often.