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!
