Syracuse Sandwich: Panera Bread's Bacon Turkey Bravo

Who: Panera Bread What: Bacon Turkey Bravo
Where: Route 11, Cicero Phone: 458-9436 Website: Panera Bread
Parking: Shared Lots Accepts Credit Cards: Yes Take-Out: Yes Delivery: No

     When we don't want to cook and don't feel like waiting long for food, we will normally go to Panera Bread or McDonald's. Since McDonald's is one of the things we gave up for Lent, Panera Bread was our destination last night. With how frequently we eat there, two to three times a month, I'll probably end up reviewing the whole menu. There was a small line when we walked in but with three cashiers working, our order was taken in no time. Being disappointed with the Napa Almond Chicken Salad the last time we went, I opted for the You Pick Two option. I got a cup of French onion soup and half a Bacon Turkey Bravo Sandwich. After finding a table in the very busy dining room, we only had to wait a handful of minutes before our name was called.

     When I sat this plate down I could tell immedicately that the fillings to bread thickness ratio is off. I had to move the top piece of bread backwards so I could get a picture of the fillings. I'll explain to those of you who don't know about the F:BT ratio. Those in the sandwich community, including myself, believe that the fillings that make up a sandwich (meat, cheese, ect.) should be great than or equal to the thickness of both pieces of bread combined. In this case the ratio is off but it isn't the end of the world, taste can make up for lack of fillings. Unfortunately, upon first bite my mouth was full of generic deli meat flavor. On one hand I was disapointed, but on the other I was glad I had ordered only half a sandwich. However, after a few bites as I was really gettting into sandwich, the other flavors really started to turn this sandwich around. The pre-cooked bacon was surprisingly tasty, and I almost prefered it to being fried. The tomato basil bread was an interesting flavor but its softness kept it very light. Their signature dressing was absolutely fabulous. It really complimented the bread and the fillings. I did add a packet of pepper and one of salt for added flavor. After a disappointing start, this sandwich wasn't half bad and if not for the turkey I would order this on a regular basis.
Rating: Satisfying - The mighty Panera can afford better turkey, they should invest in some.