As many of you may remember, back in July Panera Bread announced that it would be opening a new location in Harvard Square, next to Qdoba and in the spot where Bob Slate Stationer used to be. At the time, Panera expected the location to be open to the public by November. Clearly, that month has come and gone, and so the question remains: when is Panera coming to the Square?
According to Panera Bread joint venture area director Gregg T. Godfrey, the new opening date is set for the beginning of March. The setback is due to minor delays and the space is still currently under construction.
When completed, the restaurant will occupy two floors. The bottom floor will house the bakery and counter where costumers place orders, and a staircase will lead to the second floor where patrons can eat or study in front of large windows overlooking Widener Library.
Pioneering a new table service, employees at this location will bring customers' food to tables on either floor.
Panera will serve moderately priced breads, soups, and salads, catering not only to students, but also to tourists and business people in Harvard Square.
"It should feel warm and inviting," Godfery said.