Here are 10 alternatives to Panera Bread, along with a summary, pricing information, and pros and cons for each:
1. Au Bon Pain:
Summary: Au Bon Pain is a bakery and café chain known for its artisan bread, pastries, and sandwiches. They offer a variety of soups, salads, and breakfast options.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Freshly baked bread, diverse menu options, and a focus on healthier ingredients.
Cons: Limited locations compared to larger chains, may not be available in all areas.
2. Corner Bakery Cafe:
Summary: Corner Bakery Cafe offers a range of sandwiches, salads, and baked goods. They have a selection of breakfast items and seasonal menu options.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Fresh ingredients, customizable options, and a variety of menu choices.
Cons: Limited availability in some regions, can get crowded during peak hours.
3. Jason’s Deli:
Summary: Jason’s Deli is a deli-style restaurant that serves sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked potatoes. They offer organic and gluten-free options.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Wide variety of menu choices, focus on healthier ingredients, and catering services available.
Cons: Limited locations, can be busy during lunch hours.
4. Potbelly Sandwich Shop:
Summary: Potbelly Sandwich Shop specializes in toasted sandwiches, soups, and salads. They also have milkshakes and freshly baked cookies.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Unique sandwich options, lively atmosphere, and customizable menu items.
Cons: Limited menu variety compared to larger chains, fewer locations in some areas.
5. McAlister’s Deli:
Summary: McAlister’s Deli offers a selection of deli sandwiches, salads, soups, and baked potatoes. They also have a variety of sweet tea flavors.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Generous portion sizes, extensive beverage options, and family-friendly atmosphere.
Cons: Limited availability in certain regions, can be crowded during peak times.
6. Einstein Bros. Bagels:
Summary: Einstein Bros. Bagels is a bagel-focused chain that offers a variety of bagel sandwiches, salads, and coffee beverages. They also have breakfast options.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Freshly baked bagels, diverse menu choices, and breakfast all day.
Cons: Limited to bagel-based items, fewer lunch options compared to other chains.
7. Jersey Mike’s Subs:
Summary: Jersey Mike’s Subs specializes in made-to-order submarine sandwiches. They have a variety of cold and hot subs, as well as wraps and salads.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Freshly sliced meats and cheeses, customizable sandwiches, and quick service.
Cons: Limited vegetarian options, may not be available in all areas.
8. Firehouse Subs:
Summary: Firehouse Subs offers a range of hot and cold submarine sandwiches, along with salads and chili. They also support firefighting-related charities.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Flavorful subs, commitment to community involvement, and online ordering available.
Cons: Limited vegetarian options, fewer locations compared to larger chains.
9. Cosi:
Summary: Cosi is a fast-casual chain known for its flatbread sandwiches, salads, and soups. They also have a selection of breakfast items and coffee beverages.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Unique flatbread options, fresh ingredients, and cozy atmosphere.
Cons: Limited number of locations, menu variety may be limited in some areas.
10. Tropical Smoothie Cafe:
Summary: Tropical Smoothie Cafe serves a variety of smoothies, sandwiches, wraps, and salads. They focus on using fresh, healthy ingredients in their menu items.
Pricing: Moderate.
Pros: Wide range of smoothie flavors, customizable options, and healthier
choices available.
Cons: Limited hot food options, availability may vary by location.
Please note that pricing and availability may vary based on location, and it’s always a good idea to check with specific restaurants for the most accurate information.