Panera Bread offers specialty selections and ambiance for any appetite

Warm wood tones and the soothing smell of fresh bread welcome diners into Harrisonburg’s newest restaurant, Panera Bread bakery and café.

Located just off Rt. 33 on Burgess Road by Barnes and Noble, Panera is an excellent addition to the Harrisonburg dining scene. For either a delicious meal on the go or a relaxed visit with friends over coffee, Panera is the perfect choice.

The delicious aromas of Panera make its atmosphere welcoming. Scents from the baker’s oven waft through the restaurant. This mingles with the smell of fresh-brewed coffee and tea to create a delightful dining experience.

The most prominent aspect of Panera is its architecture. A large fireplace graces the center of the restaurant. Plush leather loveseats surround a warm hearth, providing the perfect ambiance for talking away the day. "I love its informal and cozy atmosphere," said freshman Renee Shenk.

Choices abound at Panera Bread with menu options for every mood. Those with a hearty appetite can find appeasement in one of Panera’s fine Café or Signature Sandwiches. Every sandwich creation at Panera comes on its own specifically selected bread. Selections include the Tuscan Chicken on Rosemary and Onion Focaccia and the Bacon Turkey Bravo on Tomato Basil Bread. Lighter appetites will be pleased by Panera’s assortment of fresh salads.

In the mood for something hot? Panera offers four delicious panini sandwiches like the Smokehouse Turkey on Three Cheese Bread or the Turkey Artichoke on Basil Pesto Focaccia. Multiple soups are available with either a French baguette or served in a sourdough bowl.

Above all of its other selections, Panera’s breads are superb. Choices range from the simple Sourdough to the zesty Asiago Cheese. Exquisite pastries fill Panera’s bakery display. Freshly baked bagels are always available. Panera also offers a number of specialty spreads for their breads and bagels.

The Panera café offers a wide assortment of specialty coffees and espresso drinks. These warm beverages are perfect for a long chat by Panera’s fireplace. Those looking for something cooler to drink will delight in Panera’s iced coffees and Jones Sodas.

Prices are reasonable at Panera, with sandwiches and salads averaging $5-$6. Soups are slightly cheaper at $3-$4. If only a snack beckons, coffee and a small pastry will only cost $2-$3.

"I like Panera Bread because it’s a bread sensation you can’t get anywhere else unless you go to France. I’m Gilbert Gottfried," said freshman Kevin Ressler. Regardless of occasion, Panera offers the perfect casual dining experience.