Panera Bread Catering Menu With Prices 2026

Planning food for a business meeting, family gathering, birthday party, school event, or office lunch can be stressful. The good news is that the Panera Bread catering menu offers fresh sandwiches, salads, soups, breakfast favorites, bakery treats, coffee, and boxed meals that make serving a group much easier.

Whether you’re feeding 10 people or 100, Panera provides flexible catering packages that fit different group sizes and budgets. From morning pastry assortments and bagel packs to sandwich platters, boxed lunches, and dessert trays, there are plenty of options for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and special occasions.

This guide covers everything you need to know about the latest Panera Bread catering menu with prices, including popular catering packages, estimated serving sizes, ordering methods, delivery options, customization choices, and helpful tips to help you choose the right menu for your event.


Panera Bread Catering at a Glance

If you’re looking for a quick overview before exploring the full menu, here’s what Panera Bread catering offers.

FeatureDetails
Catering AvailableYes
Best ForOffice meetings, corporate events, birthdays, weddings, school functions, family gatherings
Menu OptionsBreakfast, boxed lunches, sandwich platters, salads, soups, bakery trays, beverages, desserts
Group SizeSmall gatherings to large events
DeliveryAvailable in most participating locations
PickupAvailable
Advance OrderingRecommended for large orders
CustomizationAvailable for many catering items
Online OrderingYes
Panera Catering Menu With Prices 2026

Quick Answer

The Panera Bread catering menu includes breakfast boxes, bagel packs, pastry trays, sandwich platters, boxed lunches, salads, soups, mac and cheese, bakery assortments, cookies, brownies, coffee totes, lemonade, tea, and other beverages. Most catering packages are designed to serve groups of different sizes, making them suitable for business meetings, office lunches, parties, holiday gatherings, and community events. Prices vary by location, selected menu items, and serving size.


What Is Panera Bread Catering?

Panera Bread Catering is a group meal service designed for customers who need fresh food prepared for meetings, celebrations, conferences, training sessions, or family events. Instead of ordering individual meals one at a time, customers can choose from catering bundles, boxed meals, or large platters that are portioned for multiple people.

Many catering items are prepared shortly before pickup or delivery to help maintain freshness. Customers can also customize several menu items by selecting different breads, sandwiches, salads, beverages, and bakery products based on the preferences of their guests.

The catering menu is available at many participating Panera Bread locations, although menu availability and pricing may differ depending on your area.

panera-bread-catering-menu-panera-bread-platters.png

Why Choose Panera Bread Catering?

Panera Bread has become a popular catering choice because it combines fresh ingredients, flexible menu options, and convenient ordering. Whether you’re planning a casual office lunch or a larger celebration, the menu offers a variety of meals that can satisfy different tastes and dietary preferences.

Some of the biggest advantages include:

  • Freshly prepared sandwiches, salads, soups, and bakery items
  • Breakfast, lunch, dinner, and dessert options in one menu
  • Individual boxed meals for easy serving
  • Large platters for sharing with groups
  • Vegetarian-friendly selections
  • Easy online ordering, pickup, and delivery
  • Suitable for both small and large gatherings
  • Beverage packages including coffee, tea, lemonade, and soft drinks

Events Perfect for Panera Bread Catering

One reason many customers choose Panera is that the menu works well for a wide range of occasions. Whether you’re hosting a formal business event or a casual family gathering, there are catering options that fit different group sizes and meal preferences.

Panera Bread catering is commonly ordered for:

  • Office meetings
  • Corporate lunches
  • Employee appreciation events
  • Training sessions
  • Conferences
  • School meetings
  • Classroom celebrations
  • Graduation parties
  • Birthday parties
  • Baby showers
  • Bridal showers
  • Church gatherings
  • Holiday parties
  • Family reunions
  • Community events
  • Sports team meals
  • Fundraising events
Panera Bread Catering Menu With Prices

What’s Included on the Panera Bread Catering Menu?

The Panera Bread catering menu is organized into several categories, allowing customers to mix and match items based on the type of event and the number of guests.

Major catering categories include:

  • Breakfast Catering
  • Bagel Packs
  • Pastry Assortments
  • Sandwich Platters
  • Boxed Lunches
  • Salad Bowls
  • Soup Catering
  • Mac & Cheese Catering
  • Grain Bowls (where available)
  • Fruit Cups and Fruit Bowls
  • Cookie Trays
  • Brownie and Dessert Trays
  • Beverage Packages
  • Coffee Totes
  • Lemonade
  • Iced Tea
  • Hot Tea
  • Bottled Drinks

In the following sections, we’ll break down each category, explain what’s included, estimated serving sizes, and the latest menu prices to help you choose the best catering package for your event.


What You’ll Learn in This Guide

By the end of this guide, you’ll know:

  • The latest Panera Bread catering menu prices
  • The most popular catering packages
  • Which menu items are best for breakfast, lunch, and dinner
  • Estimated serving sizes for each catering category
  • How to place a catering order online or in-store
  • Delivery and pickup options
  • Tips for saving money on large catering orders
  • Common customization options
  • Answers to frequently asked questions about Panera Bread catering

Complete Panera Bread Catering Menu with Prices (2026)

Now that you know how Panera catering works, let’s explore each catering category in detail. Whether you’re ordering breakfast for a morning meeting or lunch for a large office gathering, the menu offers a variety of options designed for different group sizes and budgets.

Note: The prices below are estimated and may vary by location. Your local Panera Bread restaurant may have slightly different menu items, serving sizes, and pricing.

Panera Bread Catering Menu

Panera Breakfast Catering Menu

Panera Bread is one of the most popular choices for breakfast meetings because it offers a wide selection of freshly baked pastries, bagels, breakfast sandwiches, fruit, yogurt, and premium coffee. Most breakfast catering packages are designed to serve groups, making them ideal for offices, schools, and family gatherings.

Breakfast Catering Menu with Prices

Menu ItemServesEstimated Price
Bagel Pack13$16.99–$19.99
Bagel & Cream Cheese Spread13$21.99–$24.99
Morning Continental8–10$74.99+
Deluxe Assorted Pastry Pack10–12$42.99+
Assorted Pastry Box10$34.99+
Muffin Variety Pack10$29.99+
Cinnamon Roll Pack9$29.99+
Fruit Cup Assortment10$39.99+
Greek Yogurt with Mixed BerriesIndividual$5.99+
Individual Breakfast Sandwich1$6.99–$8.99

Best for Breakfast Meetings

If you’re hosting a morning event, these combinations work well:

  • Bagels with cream cheese and coffee
  • Pastries with fresh fruit
  • Breakfast sandwiches for a more filling meal
  • Yogurt and fruit for health-conscious guests
  • Coffee totes with assorted baked goods

Sandwich Platters

Sandwich platters are among the most popular items on the Panera Bread catering menu. They include a variety of signature sandwiches sliced into smaller portions, making them easy for guests to serve themselves.

Panera Bread Catering Menu 2026

Most platters feature an assortment of flavors, helping accommodate different tastes during meetings, parties, and office lunches.

Sandwich Catering Prices

Catering ItemServesEstimated Price
Hot Sandwich Assortment8–10$89.99+
Cold Sandwich Assortment8–10$84.99+
Signature Sandwich Platter10–12$99.99+
Deli Sandwich Tray10$94.99+
Half Sandwich Platter10–12$79.99+

Popular Sandwich Choices

Depending on availability, platters may include favorites such as:

  • Chipotle Chicken Avocado Melt
  • Smokehouse BBQ Chicken
  • Turkey & Cheddar Sandwich
  • Bacon Turkey Bravo
  • Grilled Cheese
  • Mediterranean Veggie
  • Tuna Salad Sandwich
  • Ham & Swiss
  • Roasted Turkey Sandwich

Availability varies by location.


Individual Boxed Lunches

Boxed lunches are a convenient option when each guest needs their own meal. Every box is individually packed, making distribution simple for conferences, training sessions, and corporate events.

Most boxed lunches include:

  • Half or whole sandwich
  • Side item
  • Fresh baguette or chips
  • Cookie
  • Utensils and napkins

Boxed Lunch Prices

Boxed MealEstimated Price
Half Sandwich Box$13.99–$15.99
Whole Sandwich Box$16.99–$18.99
Salad Box Lunch$14.99–$17.99
Soup & Sandwich Box$15.99–$18.99
Soup & Salad Box$15.99–$18.99

Why Choose Boxed Lunches?

They are ideal because:

  • Every guest receives an individual meal.
  • Food stays organized and easy to distribute.
  • Great for professional events.
  • Less cleanup than buffet-style catering.
  • Easy to accommodate different meal preferences.

Fresh Salad Catering

Panera’s salads are a popular choice for guests looking for lighter meal options. Catering salads are prepared in large bowls and include dressing on the side, making them easy to serve buffet-style.

Salad Catering Prices

SaladServesEstimated Price
Caesar Salad8–10$39.99+
Greek Salad8–10$44.99+
Fuji Apple Chicken Salad8–10$54.99+
Green Goddess Cobb Salad8–10$59.99+
Southwest Caesar Salad8–10$54.99+

Why Add Salads?

Adding one or two salad bowls helps create a balanced catering spread by offering:

  • Fresh vegetables
  • Protein options
  • Vegetarian selections
  • Lighter alternatives to sandwiches

Soup & Mac Catering

Panera is well known for its soups and creamy mac & cheese. These warm comfort foods are especially popular during colder months and pair well with sandwiches and salads.

Soup Catering Prices

ItemServesEstimated Price
Broccoli Cheddar Soup4$21.99+
Chicken Noodle Soup4$21.99+
Creamy Tomato Soup4$21.99+
Bistro French Onion Soup4$22.99+
Homestyle Chicken Noodle4$21.99+

Mac & Cheese Catering

ItemServesEstimated Price
Classic Mac & Cheese4–6$29.99+
Family Mac & Cheese8–10$49.99+

These dishes are excellent additions for office lunches, family celebrations, and casual gatherings where guests appreciate warm, comforting meals.


Bakery & Dessert Catering

No Panera catering order feels complete without its bakery favorites. Freshly baked cookies, brownies, muffins, and pastries are perfect for ending a meal or adding a sweet treat to your event.

Bakery Catering Prices

DessertServesEstimated Price
Cookie Pack12$18.99+
Cookie Tray24$34.99+
Brownie Tray12$26.99+
Mini Dessert Assortment12–16$36.99+
Pastry Tray10–12$42.99+

These bakery assortments are especially popular for birthday parties, employee appreciation events, school functions, and holiday celebrations.


Fresh Fruit Catering

If you’re looking to add a healthier option, Panera also offers fresh fruit selections that pair well with breakfast or lunch catering.

Fruit ItemServesEstimated Price
Seasonal Fruit Bowl8–10$39.99+
Individual Fruit Cup1$4.99+

Fresh fruit provides a refreshing option for guests and complements pastries, sandwiches, and salads without making the meal feel too heavy.

Panera Bread Beverage Catering

A meal isn’t complete without drinks, and Panera offers several beverage options that pair well with breakfast, lunch, and dessert catering. Whether you’re serving a small team or a large group, you can choose from hot coffee, tea, lemonade, iced tea, bottled drinks, and other refreshments.

For morning events, coffee is usually the most popular choice. Afternoon meetings and celebrations often include iced tea or lemonade, while bottled beverages give guests the freedom to choose their preferred drink.

Beverage Catering Menu with Estimated Prices

BeverageServesEstimated Price
Coffee Tote10–12$24.99–$29.99
Hot Tea Tote10–12$22.99–$27.99
Iced Tea Tote10–12$16.99–$21.99
Lemonade Tote10–12$16.99–$21.99
Bottled WaterIndividual$2.49+
Bottled JuiceIndividual$3.49+
Soft DrinksIndividual$2.99+

Tip: A single coffee tote is generally enough for about 10 guests, but ordering an extra one is a good idea if you’re hosting a longer meeting or expect heavy coffee drinkers.


How Much Panera Catering Should You Order?

One of the biggest questions people have is how much food they’ll actually need. The answer depends on the type of event, the time of day, and how long guests will be staying.

For a light breakfast, pastries, bagels, and coffee are usually enough. A lunch meeting often requires a full meal, while evening events may benefit from a combination of sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts, and beverages.

Recommended Catering Quantities

Number of GuestsSuggested Order
5–10One sandwich platter, one salad, beverages
10–20Two sandwich platters, one or two salads, soup, dessert tray
20–40Multiple platters, salads, soups, bakery tray, beverages
40+Mix of boxed lunches or buffet platters with drinks and desserts

Planning for slightly more food than your guest count can help ensure everyone has enough to eat, especially if your event lasts several hours.


How to Order Panera Bread Catering

Panera makes the ordering process simple, whether you’re planning ahead or placing an order for the next day.

Most customers choose to order online because they can browse the menu, select serving sizes, customize items, and schedule pickup or delivery in one place. You can also place an order by phone or visit your nearest Panera location for assistance.

For large events, placing your order at least 24 to 48 hours in advance gives the restaurant more time to prepare everything accurately. If you’re catering for dozens of guests, ordering even earlier is recommended.


Pickup vs. Delivery

Panera offers both pickup and delivery at many participating locations, allowing customers to choose the option that works best for their event.

Pickup

Pickup is ideal if your venue is close to the restaurant and you want to avoid delivery fees. It also gives you more flexibility with scheduling.

Best for:

  • Family gatherings
  • Small office meetings
  • Birthday parties
  • School events

Delivery

Delivery is often the better option for larger events where transporting multiple platters and beverages would be inconvenient.

Best for:

  • Corporate meetings
  • Conferences
  • Training sessions
  • Large celebrations

Keep in mind that delivery availability, fees, and minimum order requirements may vary by location.


Can You Customize a Catering Order?

Yes. Many Panera catering items can be customized to better suit your guests’ preferences.

Depending on your local restaurant, you may be able to:

  • Choose different sandwich varieties
  • Select preferred breads
  • Add or remove certain ingredients
  • Include vegetarian-friendly options
  • Order extra sides or bakery items
  • Mix multiple platters in one order

Customization options can differ by location, so it’s worth checking with your local Panera if you have specific requests.


Vegetarian and Dietary-Friendly Choices

Panera offers several menu items that may suit different dietary preferences, making it easier to serve a group with varied needs.

Depending on the menu available at your location, you may find:

  • Vegetarian sandwiches
  • Fresh salads
  • Fruit cups
  • Bakery items
  • Soups without meat
  • Dairy-free beverage options

If you’re ordering for guests with food allergies or specific dietary restrictions, review the ingredient and allergen information before placing your order.


Tips to Save Money on Panera Catering

Catering doesn’t have to stretch your budget. A few smart choices can help you feed a group while keeping costs under control.

Some practical ways to save include:

  • Order platters instead of individual meals when appropriate.
  • Choose pickup if delivery fees don’t fit your budget.
  • Combine sandwiches with salads instead of ordering only premium entrées.
  • Add bakery trays as an affordable dessert option.
  • Place one large order instead of several smaller orders.
  • Watch for seasonal promotions or rewards that may apply to catering purchases.

Is Panera Catering Worth It?

If you’re looking for fresh food, flexible menu options, and convenient ordering, Panera catering is a strong choice for many types of events.

It works particularly well for:

  • Business meetings
  • Office lunches
  • School functions
  • Family celebrations
  • Community events
  • Holiday gatherings

The combination of sandwiches, soups, salads, breakfast items, bakery treats, and beverages makes it easy to build a menu that suits different tastes without requiring orders from multiple restaurants.

Panera Catering Prices by Group Size

Use this table to estimate your budget before placing an order.

Group SizeRecommended Order
10 People1 sandwich platter, 1 salad, cookies, drinks
20 People2 sandwich platters, 2 salads, soup, dessert tray
50 People5–6 platters, multiple salads, soups, bakery trays, beverages
100 PeopleMix of platters, boxed lunches, salads, desserts, and beverage stations

Estimated Budget:

  • 10 people: $120–$180
  • 20 people: $250–$400
  • 50 people: $650–$1,000
  • 100 people: $1,300–$2,000+

Most Popular Panera Catering Items

ItemBest ForPopularity
Sandwich PlatterOffice lunches⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Boxed LunchMeetings & conferences⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Broccoli Cheddar SoupCold-weather events⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Caesar SaladMixed groups⭐⭐⭐⭐
Bagel PackBreakfast meetings⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Cookie TrayDesserts⭐⭐⭐⭐

Panera Catering vs. Chick-fil-A vs. Subway Catering

FeaturePaneraChick-fil-ASubway
Breakfast CateringYesLimitedLimited
Soups & SaladsExcellentLimitedBasic
Boxed LunchesYesYesYes
Bakery DessertsExtensiveModerateLimited
Best ChoiceVarietyChicken-focused mealsBudget-friendly subs

How to Estimate Food for Your Event

A simple rule is:

  • Breakfast: 1–2 pastries or bagels per guest.
  • Lunch: 1 full boxed lunch or ½ sandwich plus salad per guest.
  • Soup: 1 bowl for every 2 guests when served with sandwiches.
  • Dessert: 1 cookie or brownie per guest.
  • Coffee: 1 tote for every 10–12 guests.

Ordering 5–10% extra food is usually a good idea for longer events.

Panera Catering Ordering Checklist

  • Confirm guest count
  • Choose breakfast, lunch, or dinner menu
  • Add vegetarian-friendly options
  • Select beverages
  • Add desserts
  • Choose pickup or delivery
  • Place order 24–48 hours early
  • Review allergen needs

Nutrition and Allergen Information

Panera offers a range of menu items with different calorie counts and ingredients. Guests with allergies should review the official ingredient and allergen information before ordering. Common allergens may include:

  • Wheat
  • Milk
  • Eggs
  • Soy
  • Tree nuts

For mixed groups, adding salads, fruit, and vegetarian sandwiches can provide more variety.

Pros and Cons of Panera Catering

Pros

  • Wide menu variety
  • Strong breakfast options
  • Fresh salads and soups
  • Convenient boxed lunches
  • Easy online ordering
  • Good for business events

Cons

  • Prices can be higher than some competitors
  • Menu availability varies by location
  • Delivery fees may apply
  • Large orders should be placed in advance

Editor’s Top Picks

Best Breakfast Package: Bagel Pack + Cream Cheese + Coffee Tote

Best Office Lunch: Boxed Lunches with a Cookie Tray

Best Large Event Combo: Sandwich Platters + Caesar Salad + Broccoli Cheddar Soup + Brownie Tray

Best Budget-Friendly Order: Half Sandwich Platter + Salad + Iced Tea Tote

Best Crowd-Pleaser: Signature Sandwich Assortment with Cookies and Lemonade

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Panera Bread catering menu include?

The Panera Bread catering menu includes breakfast assortments, bagels, pastries, sandwich platters, boxed lunches, fresh salads, soups, mac & cheese, bakery trays, cookies, brownies, fruit bowls, coffee totes, tea, lemonade, and bottled beverages. Menu availability may vary by location.

How much does Panera Bread catering cost?

Panera Bread catering prices depend on the menu items, serving size, and restaurant location. Small catering orders may start around $20, while larger sandwich platters and complete catering packages can cost over $100. Breakfast, lunch, and boxed meal options are available for different budgets.

How many people does a Panera catering platter serve?

Most Panera catering platters are designed to serve between 8 and 12 people. Larger events can be accommodated by ordering multiple platters or combining sandwiches, salads, soups, desserts, and beverages based on the number of guests.

Does Panera Bread deliver catering orders?

Yes. Many Panera Bread locations offer catering delivery for offices, schools, homes, and event venues. Delivery availability, fees, and minimum order requirements vary by location, so it’s best to check your local restaurant before placing an order.

How far in advance should I order Panera catering?

For small gatherings, ordering at least 24 hours in advance is usually recommended. Large catering orders for meetings, weddings, or corporate events should ideally be placed 48 to 72 hours ahead to ensure menu availability and timely preparation.

Can I customize a Panera catering order?

Yes. Many Panera catering items can be customized. Depending on your location, you may be able to choose different sandwiches, breads, salads, beverages, bakery items, and serving quantities to match your event and guests’ preferences.

Does Panera catering offer vegetarian options?

Yes. Panera offers several vegetarian-friendly catering choices, including salads, pastries, bagels, fruit, bakery items, soups, and select sandwiches. Availability may vary by restaurant, so review the menu before ordering.

Does Panera Bread catering offer boxed lunches?

Yes. Individual boxed lunches are one of Panera’s most popular catering options. They typically include a sandwich or salad, a side, a cookie, and utensils, making them convenient for business meetings, conferences, and training sessions.

Can I order Panera catering online?

Yes. Panera allows customers to place catering orders online, schedule pickup or delivery, customize menu items, and select a preferred pickup or delivery time through its official ordering platform.

What events are best for Panera catering?

Panera catering is suitable for office meetings, business lunches, conferences, birthday parties, baby showers, graduation celebrations, school functions, church events, family reunions, and holiday gatherings because of its flexible menu and serving options.

Does Panera catering include breakfast?

Yes. Panera offers breakfast catering with bagels, cream cheese, pastries, muffins, breakfast sandwiches, fruit, yogurt, and coffee. These options are popular for morning meetings, seminars, and office breakfasts.

Does Panera Bread catering include drinks?

Yes. Beverage options include coffee totes, hot tea, iced tea, lemonade, bottled water, juice, and soft drinks. Customers can add drinks to any breakfast, lunch, or dinner catering order.

Can I order Panera catering for a small group?

Yes. Panera offers catering options for both small and large groups. Individual boxed lunches, smaller bakery packs, and select platters make it easy to serve groups of fewer than 10 people without ordering more food than needed.

Does Panera catering provide utensils and napkins?

Most Panera catering orders include essential serving supplies such as utensils, napkins, and plates when needed. The exact items included may vary by location and order type.

Are Panera catering prices the same at every location?

No. Prices can vary based on your local Panera Bread restaurant, regional costs, menu availability, and seasonal changes. Always check your local menu for the most accurate pricing.

Which Panera catering items are the most popular?

Some of the most frequently ordered catering items include sandwich platters, boxed lunches, broccoli cheddar soup, Caesar salad, bagel packs, pastry assortments, cookie trays, brownies, and coffee totes.

Can I order Panera catering for same-day pickup?

Some locations accept same-day catering orders if preparation time and menu availability allow. However, placing your order at least one day in advance is recommended, especially for larger events.

Does Panera catering offer desserts?

Yes. Customers can order cookies, brownies, muffins, pastries, cinnamon rolls, and dessert trays to complement breakfast or lunch catering packages.

Is Panera catering a good choice for office meetings?

Yes. Panera is a popular option for office meetings because it offers individually packaged meals, shareable platters, fresh ingredients, and convenient delivery or pickup. The variety of menu choices also makes it easier to accommodate different preferences.

What is the best Panera catering package for 20 people?

For around 20 guests, a balanced order typically includes two sandwich platters, one or two large salads, soup or mac & cheese, a dessert tray, and beverages. Adjust the selection based on the length of your event and whether you’re serving a full meal or light refreshments.


Conclusion

Panera Bread catering offers a practical solution for everything from small family gatherings to large business events. With breakfast favorites, sandwich platters, boxed lunches, fresh salads, warm soups, bakery treats, and beverage packages, it’s easy to build a menu that suits your guests and your budget.

Whether you need food for a morning meeting, a corporate lunch, a birthday celebration, or a community event, Panera’s flexible catering options make planning simpler. Before placing your order, compare serving sizes, review your local menu, and order in advance to help ensure the best selection and a smooth catering experience.