Panera Bread isn’t just soups, salads, and sandwiches—it’s a goldmine of smart customizations and insider tips.
With the right tricks, you can turn a basic order into something bolder, fresher, or more filling. These hacks can save money, boost flavor, and uncover hidden menu gems.
Here are 17 clever ways to upgrade your next Panera run.
1. Ask For Your Sandwich “Toasted” For Extra Crunch
A quick toast takes any sandwich from soft to golden and crispy. It adds warmth, texture, and just the right bite.
Melty cheese and crunchy bread? Yes, please.
2. Get A Free Side Of Bread With Any Bowl
Ordering soup or salad? You can always choose a baguette as your free side.
Dip it, tear it, or save it for later—the bread’s the bonus.
3. Order A Bagel Sandwich On A Croissant
Swap the bagel for a flaky croissant to make your breakfast lighter and more buttery. It changes the whole sandwich experience.
Fluffy eggs and a golden crunch? Total upgrade.
4. Use The “You Pick Two” To Create Your Own Meal Combo
Pair any two items from soups, salads, or half sandwiches to customize your own perfect lunch. It’s a balanced, shareable option.
The mix-and-match possibilities are nearly endless.
5. Ask For Extra Dressing Or Sauce—No charge
Want more chipotle mayo or apple vinaigrette? Just ask. Panera usually adds it for free.
Sauce makes the meal—don’t skimp on flavor.
6. Turn Any Salad Into A Wrap
Skip the fork and ask your salad to be wrapped in a tortilla. It’s less mess and more portable.
Perfect for on-the-go lunches or quick bites.
7. Ask For The Hidden Power Menu (Some Items Still Made)
Though no longer listed, the high-protein Power Bowls might still be available if you ask. Many stores still prep them.
Packed with greens and grilled meat, it’s a secret worth knowing.
8. Order Soup In A Bread Bowl—Then Get The Lid Toasted
The sourdough lid that tops your bowl can be toasted on request. It makes a buttery, crunchy dipper.
More texture, more flavor, and nothing goes to waste.
9. Customize Mac & Cheese With Bacon Or Broccoli
Add bacon for smokiness or broccoli for color and crunch. They’ll mix it right in.
One of the best ways to elevate this creamy classic.
10. Use The App For Exclusive Discounts And Rewards
The Panera app often has member-only deals, surprise freebies, and birthday perks. It’s fast and easy to use.
Loyalty really does pay off here.
11. Add Avocado To Anything (And It’s Worth It)
For a small fee, you can add creamy avocado to sandwiches, salads, or even breakfast bowls. It adds richness and balance.
It’s one of the best upgrades on the menu.
12. Get Free Refills On Coffee, Tea, And Soda
Once you buy a drink, the refills are unlimited during that visit. It’s great for lingering or working.
Bring your laptop, grab a booth, and sip all day.
13. Split A You Pick Two With A Friend For A Mini Meal
Share a combo to try two things at once without overeating or overspending. Just ask for an extra plate.
It’s also a smart snack for kids or light eaters.
14. Sub In An Egg For Protein On Any Salad
Add a hard-boiled egg to boost protein without meat. It’s a quiet menu tweak that satisfies.
Healthy, simple, and surprisingly filling.
15. Ask For A Warm Cookie—They’ll Heat It Up
Request your cookie warmed for a gooey center and melted chocolate chips. The flavor intensifies when it’s heated.
It turns a quick treat into a bakery-style dessert.
16. Try secret menu smoothies (Ask If They Still Make Them)
Some locations still know how to blend off-menu smoothies like the Power Berry or Peach Mango. Just ask nicely.
They’re fruity, icy, and perfect for warm days.
17. Use The Rapid Pick-up Shelf To Skip The Line
Order ahead on the app, walk in, and grab your bag from the pick-up rack. No waiting required.
It’s the fastest way to get your fix.