Panera Bread’s Spring Menu Has Arrived—Here’s a Food Editor’s Review

• What It Is: mixed greens and arugula in balsamic vinaigrette, strawberries, fresh mozzarella cheese, basil and toasted pecan pieces
• Price (whole): $10

The cheese was mild and creamy, the dressing was a tangy foil for the sweet fruit and the greens were crisp and fresh. While I appreciated the crunch of the pecans, I wished they were glazed, spiced, toasted or candied. Personally, I preferred the Strawberry Poppyseed Salad, which just returned for the season. It was fruit-forward with a sweet dressing and sophisticated appearance, courtesy of poppyseeds. I especially loved the vibrantly acidic Mandarin oranges. Pro tip: Add chicken to either salad for a boost of protein.

• What It Is: Black Forest ham, provolone cheese, Asiago cheese, caramelized onion and Gruyère spread
• Price: $10

The Croissant Toast sammies, which come on a new type of sliced bread made from buttery, flaky croissant dough, were arguably the highlight of Panera Bread’s spring menu refresh. This one came with meat. The ham was mostly sweet, but the slightly tangy, just-salty-enough cheese spread complemented it just right. The bread was tender, laminated and appetizing, but I thought it could have been more golden brown, given that “toast” is in the name.

• What It Is: provolone cheese, American cheese, caramelized onions, arugula and garlic aioli
• Price: $8

The meatless iteration was my favorite of the bunch. It was sort of like a broiled grilled cheese, and more like a savory pastry than a sandwich. The peppery arugula cut right through the decadent fillings. I wished the spread and onions were more evenly distributed, as there were dry pockets throughout the handheld. (A pickled condiment would have been nice, too.) That said, the caramelized onions were deliciously jammy and sweet, yet balanced with the optimal dose of acidity. If you’re a fan of fromage, look no further than this gem.