Thoughts on Panera to-go...

This installment of the Panera blog will focus on take-out style Panera. While in transition from my place in New Albany to the new place in Upper Arlington, Candy volunteered to help load up some stuff to the new place. This took place on a Tuesday afternoon...so naturally, dinner was included in this outing. We decided to pick up some Panera to-go and take to Amy's, who lives just a few minutes from the new Upper Arlington place.

Amy, just recently had a baby boy...Drew Boy. So instead of gathering at the local Panera, it makes sense to take Panera to her. I had no intention of including this in the blog, but after much discussion over the dinner table that evening...I was convinced that it made sense to profile Panera take-out.

I don't think I am out of line by stating that take-out is never as good as dining in. Never. And I believe it applies to all restaurants. Panera is no different. The biggest rip-off are the to-go containers. I ordered a chicken cobb salad...and I would have to say that it was probably the same portion that I would have received by dining in. Candy, on the other hand, ordered a greek salad as part of a pick 2....she was ripped off. She also ordered a soup to-go. I didn't see the logic in her order...as to me it seems pretty obvious that a side salad and soup to-go would be the worst items to order to-go. But to each his own, I suppose.

Amy ("Mose") ordered her standard Sierra Turkey. I think a sandwich order to-go from Panera is by far the safest pick. You certainly cannot get ripped off on portion sizes.

Despite my concerns for portion sizes, it was an enjoyable evening with good friends. What a way to bring the comforts of Panera...home!

Drew Boy...(apologies for the awkward photo angle...technology is not cooperating with me)