Community Corner

LI's First Two-Story Panera Bread Coming to Merrick Road

A community room will be available to reserve for free on the second floor.

Long Island's first two-story Panera Bread is set to open on Merrick Road in Bellmore before the end of the year.

Construction is already well underway at 2375 Merrick Rd., and officials told Patch they're targeting Dec. 16 to open, but that's not certain. They'll definitely open the doors by year's end. 

"We’re so happy to be coming to the area," Greg George, Vice President of Operations for Doherty Enterprises, Inc., the Panera Bread franchisee for Long Island, said. "We are looking to spread Panera warmth to the Bellmore community and hope to make a positive difference here as well as fill a void locally for quality grab-and-go, fast casual dining."

The 25th bakery-cafe' on Long Island will offer off-street parking, free WiFi and a fireplace. They'll serve breakfast from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m., with lunch and dinner being available until 10 p.m. Monday to Saturday. Panera closes at 9 p.m. on Sundays.

Find out what's happening in Merrickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Unlike other locations, the Bellmore Panera will have a second-floor community room that can be reserved, at no charge, by clubs, groups and organizations looking for a place to meet.

"Panera Bread wanted to have a positive economic impact on Bellmore since the area took a hard hit during Hurricane Sandy," Patricia Friia, a spokesperson for Panera, said. "We’re not only bringing a healthier food option to those who live and work in the area, but we’re also bringing new jobs to the town."

Find out what's happening in Merrickwith free, real-time updates from Patch.

Hiring will begin shortly and Panera is expected to fill 60 staffing positions. Those interested in employment opportunities, can visit www.panerabread.jobs.

What do you think of Panera coming to the local area? Tell us in the comments section below.


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