RECOMMENDED READING

  • The Power of Menu Simplification: A Case Study of Chili's Grill & Bar Success

    By Ava Ingram • Oct. 31, 2024

  • Starbucks Removes Extra Charge for Non-Dairy Milk: A Menu Development Update

    By Ava Ingram • Oct. 31, 2024

  • Revolutionizing Menus: The Success Behind Noodles' Menu Transformation

    By Ava Ingram • Mar. 10, 2025

  • Exploring Panera Bread's Menu Evolution: Customer Feedback and Marketing Strategies

    By Anastasia Ivers • Jul. 19, 2024

  • Discover the Exciting New KFC Concept: Saucy - A Flavorful Journey

    By Alexander Ivanov • Dec. 26, 2024

  • Exploring Taco Bell's Live Más Café: Reinventing Beverage Innovation

    By Alexander Ivanov • Dec. 9, 2024

  • The Rise of Signature Sauces in QSR: A Deep Dive into Popeyes Louisiana Kitchen's Latest Menu Addition

    By Aaron Ishikawa • Jul. 21, 2025

Restaurant Association Logo

Restaurant Association

Empowering restaurant professionals with free resources, training, and networking opportunities to build successful businesses.

Sign Up Free

Pages

  • Articles
  • News
  • Topics
  • Shows
  • Academy
  • Events
  • Jobs

About

  • About Us
  • Our Team
  • Contact Us
  • Sitemap

Resources

  • Library
  • Templates

Connect

LinkedInInstagramTikTokYouTubeX
  • Editorial Ethics Policy
  • Review Guidelines
  • Disclosure Policy
  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service

© 2026 Restaurant Association. All rights reserved.

logo
  1. News
  2. Topics
  3. Shows
  4. Academy
  5. Events
  6. Jobs
  7. Resources

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

Log InSign Up Free
logo
LoginSign Up

    Videos

  • No results found

  • Articles

  • No results found

  1. Shows
  2. Academy
  3. Events
  4. Jobs

Become a member of the Restaurant Association!

Unlock exclusive access to webinars, events, and the latest news for FREE!

Sign up
Restaurant Association Logo

The Power of Menu Comebacks: How Panera Bread's Revamped Menu and Return of Bagel Favorites Showcase Customer-Centric Strategies

Explore how Panera Bread's menu revamp and reintroduction of popular bagel flavors demonstrate the impact of customer feedback and menu comebacks in the restaurant industry.

Updated On Jul. 17, 2024 Published Jul. 17, 2024

Alexander Ivanov

Alexander Ivanov

person writing on white paper

Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash

The Evolution of Panera Bread's Menu

Panera Bread, known for its fresh and diverse menu offerings, continues to innovate its menu to cater to evolving consumer preferences. The recent introduction of avocado toast, a spicy grilled chicken sandwich, and a new grilled cheese exemplifies the brand's commitment to staying relevant and engaging its customer base. By regularly updating its menu with trendy and delicious items, Panera Bread aims to attract both loyal patrons and new customers seeking exciting dining experiences.

https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1474898856510-884a2c0be546?ixid=M3w2MjYzNjJ8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw1fHxyZXN0YXVyYW50JTJDJTIwbWVudSUyMGl0ZW1zJTJDJTIwUGFuZXJhJTIwQnJlYWQlMkMlMjBjb21lYmFjayUyQyUyMGN1c3RvbWVyJTIwZmVlZGJhY2slMkMlMjBtYXJrZXRpbmclMjBzdHJhdGVneXxlbnwwfDB8fHwxNzIxMjQ0NjM5fDA&ixlib=rb-4.0.3

Photo by Melanie Deziel on Unsplash

Customer Demand for Bagel Flavors: A Key Driver of Menu Changes

The decision to bring back sesame seed and blueberry bagels at Panera Bread highlights the influence of customer demand on menu revisions. Following their discontinuation during the brand's menu overhaul, the return of these beloved bagel flavors 'by popular demand' showcases the power of customer feedback in shaping menu offerings. By listening to customer preferences and responding to their requests, Panera Bread demonstrates a customer-centric approach to menu development, enhancing brand loyalty and customer satisfaction.

Utilizing Menu Comebacks as a Marketing Strategy

The resurgence of discontinued menu items, such as the sesame seed and blueberry bagels at Panera Bread, underscores the strategic use of menu comebacks as a marketing tactic in the restaurant industry. By reintroducing popular items based on customer feedback, brands like Panera can generate buzz, attract former customers, and re-engage loyal fans. Menu comebacks not only tap into nostalgic sentiments but also create opportunities for restaurants to showcase their responsiveness to customer preferences, fostering a positive brand image and driving foot traffic.

The Impact of Social Media Trends on Menu Revisions

In today's digital age, social media plays a significant role in influencing consumer behavior and brand decisions. The criticism expressed by Panera fans on social platforms following the removal of favorite menu items illustrates how social media trends can impact menu changes. Restaurant chains, including Panera Bread, closely monitor online feedback and leverage customer sentiments to make informed menu adjustments. The ability to gauge customer reactions in real-time allows brands to adapt swiftly, address concerns, and even bring back popular items through strategic menu comebacks.