I've had continually subpar experiences with this Panera location, but I've kept going back in hopes that my luck would turn around. I figured that after being open for nearly a year, the store would eventually be able to streamline its processes/systems and adequately train its staff. Unfortunately, that hasn't been the case - and after my experience this morning, I will not be returning again.
I ordered a cappuccino and what ensued afterwards was completely unacceptable. When I walked over to the pickup area, I noticed that no one was at the coffee bar to make drinks. After waiting patiently for nearly 10 minutes, I asked someone behind the counter if a cappuccino was on the way. She said that she had to find someone to make it. There were at least 5 employees behind the counter making sandwiches at the time. I find it unbelievable that not one employee had been trained to make a cappuccino. If you offer something on your menu, every single employee should be capable of delivering that item to a customer in a timely fashion.
About 7 minutes later, someone else joined me in line to wait for a latte and there was still no one at the coffee bar. There was absolutely no sense of urgency to find someone to make drinks or to deliver the drinks quickly, and that was most bothersome to me. In addition, there was no manager on the floor (at least not that I could see).
I finally got my drink almost 20 minutes after placing my order. I wish I could say that I at least walked away from the experience with an enjoyable beverage, but no. The drink I received was made incorrectly and it was cold (not quite what you expect when you order a hot coffee). I went up to the cashier to ask for a refund, and she agreed to give it to me - but not without a rude, condescending remark. She said to me: "For future reference, when you order a cappuccino, you should know that it's steamed milk and coffee." I'm well aware of what a cappuccino is (I order one every morning). Her attitude and demeanor was the straw that broke the camel's back.
Having worked in a retail customer service position for many years, I know what it's like to be on the other side of the cash register. I understand how awful it feels to have a rude customer come into the store and make demands. However, I was not rude. I didn't yell at anyone, I didn't cause a scene, and I was respectful throughout the entire ordeal. On the other hand, the staff at Panera was not at all respectful of me or my time. They were callous and unwelcoming. I should not have had to ask for a refund - they should've offered me a refund AND an apology. But I suppose that would be asking too much. The overall lack of action and accountability among the staff made it clear that my business doesn't matter. read more