At long last, after months of promise, Panera Bread opened a two story restaurant in Bellmore. Located on the north side of Merrick Road, just west of Newbridge Road, the welcoming
and substantial structure speaks of longevity and self assuredness.
Having a separate floor option for organizations and groups to meet is a brilliant marketing decision and should go a long way to endear them even more to an anxiously awaiting community. Based upon what I've seen since the day they opened (January 13th) on a frigid Long Island Monday, the off street parking lot has been filled, with people waiting their turn to pick up their food before heading to a table or booth for a relaxed meal.
Based upon the sheer numbers, I would say this town has needed a place like Panera Bread for a long time. It bridges the gap between fast food options that proliferate in the area and higher priced restaurants offering too heavy meals for midday.
Today was my first opportunity to check it out firsthand. With temperatures in the teens and a windchill factor making it feel even colder, my bowl of broccoli cheese soup was just what the doctor ordered. With the soup came the option of a bag of chips, an apple or some bread. They also give you a choice of half a sandwich and soup, or other combinations of soup, salad and a half sandwich.
I recommend you give it a try if you haven't already. There's a good chance a lot of your friends and neighbors already have.
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