Secret Menu Items at Panera Bread

Panera Bread is known for its wholesome soups, sandwiches, and fresh-baked bread, but did you know they also have a secret menu packed with protein-rich power bowls, creative sandwich swaps, and off-menu drink hacks? While Panera doesn’t officially promote a secret menu, insiders and longtime customers have discovered customized orders that level up your meal.

Here’s your ultimate guide to Panera Bread’s best secret menu items and custom order hacks!

1. The Power Breakfast Egg Bowl (High-Protein Morning Fuel)

If you’re looking for a low-carb, high-protein breakfast, this secret menu item is perfect.

  • Ask for two eggs

  • Add avocado, spinach, and tomato

  • Optional: Add bacon or turkey for extra protein

🔥 Pro Tip: This is an excellent option if you’re following a keto or paleo diet!

2. The Power Chicken Hummus Bowl (The Original Panera Secret Item!)

One of Panera’s original secret menu items before it was removed from stores—but you can still order it by customizing your meal.

  • Order a Citrus Asian Crunch Salad (without dressing or wontons)

  • Add chicken, hummus, cucumbers, and spinach

  • Ask for lemon juice and olive oil on the side for a fresh dressing

🔥 Healthy, filling, and packed with protein!

3. The Toasted Bagel Sandwich Hack (Better Than the Menu Version!)

Panera’s bagels are amazing, but their breakfast sandwiches don’t come on bagels by default—unless you ask.

  • Order a breakfast sandwich

  • Ask for it on a toasted everything bagel (or any bagel of your choice!)

  • Optional: Add avocado or extra cheese for a richer taste

💡 This makes for a much heartier, more flavorful sandwich!

4. The Double Bread Bowl (For Soup Lovers!)

Want two soups in one meal? This off-menu hack makes it possible!

  • Ask for a double bread bowl (a hollowed-out sourdough loaf with two soup compartments!)

  • Choose two different soups

  • Perfect for sharing—or if you just can’t decide between soups!

🔥 Pro Tip: Some locations may only offer this as a seasonal item, so check before ordering.

5. The Custom Mac & Cheese Melt

Love Panera’s Mac & Cheese but want a sandwich version? Here’s how to make it happen!

  • Order a Grilled Cheese

  • Ask for Mac & Cheese inside the sandwich

  • Optional: Add bacon or avocado for extra flavor

💡 Cheesy, creamy, and the ultimate comfort food upgrade!

6. The “Hidden” Avocado Toast

Panera doesn’t officially have avocado toast, but you can easily DIY it!

  • Order a toasted slice of sourdough bread

  • Ask for avocado, sea salt, and a drizzle of lemon juice

  • Optional: Add cherry tomatoes or feta cheese for an even tastier version

🔥 A simple but delicious breakfast option!

7. The “Protein-Packed” Salad Hack

Panera’s salads are good, but you can make them even better with this high-protein upgrade!

  • Order any salad

  • Ask for double protein (chicken, turkey, or steak!)

  • Optional: Add extra avocado and a hard-boiled egg

💡 This makes any Panera salad way more filling!

8. The Secret Cinnamon Crunch Latte

Want a fun off-menu drink? Try this Cinnamon Crunch-inspired latte.

  • Order a Chai Latte or a Vanilla Latte

  • Ask for a pump of cinnamon syrup and honey drizzle

  • Optional: Ask for a sprinkle of cinnamon sugar on top

🔥 Tastes just like a Cinnamon Crunch bagel in drink form!

9. The DIY Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt Hack

Want to make Panera’s Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt even better? Here’s how:

  • Order the Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt

  • Ask for extra chipotle sauce and crispy bacon

  • Optional: Add red onions and a drizzle of BBQ sauce

💡 This adds even more smoky, spicy flavor!

10. The Mango Lemonade Refresher

Panera’s lemonades are already delicious, but this off-menu mix makes them even better.

  • Order a Mango Smoothie

  • Ask for half mango smoothie, half lemonade

  • Optional: Add a splash of iced tea for a tropical Arnold Palmer twist!

🔥 Refreshing and perfect for summer!

How to Order a Secret Menu Item at Panera Bread

Since these aren’t official menu items, you’ll need to customize your order instead of just asking for a “Power Bowl.” Here’s how to do it right:

Be polite – Some employees may not know these hacks, so be patient! ✅ Know the recipe – Explain exactly what you want step by step. ✅ Expect extra charges – Adding avocado, bacon, or double protein may cost more. ✅ Be ready to assemble it yourself – Some items (like avocado toast) may require DIY stacking.

Unlocking Panera Bread’s Secret Menu

Panera Bread is already a go-to spot for fresh, flavorful meals, but these secret menu hacks take it even further. Whether you’re looking for a protein-packed breakfast, a mac & cheese sandwich, or a refreshing off-menu drink, there’s something for everyone.

Next time you visit Panera Bread, try one of these hidden gems—or create your own!

Ava Fernandez

Ava Fernandez, celebrated for her vibrant narratives at GripRoom.com, blends cultural insights with personal anecdotes, creating a tapestry of articles that resonate with a broad audience. Her background in cultural studies and a passion for storytelling illuminate her work, making each piece a journey through the colors and rhythms of diverse societies. Ava's flair for connecting with readers through heartfelt and thought-provoking content has established her as a cherished voice within the GripRoom community, where her stories serve as bridges between worlds, inviting exploration, understanding, and shared human experiences.

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