Panera brings a favorite summertime sandwich back to the menu

While the classic Panera soup and sandwich combination is always a guest favorite, a classic summertime sandwich is back after a three-year hiatus. Even though many people would like to take a trip to the coast, those flavors are available at little closer to home. Panera has brought back its Lobster Roll and Lobster Mac & Cheese to select restaurants. No claw cracking required.

For a limited time, 200 Northeastern U.S. Panera restaurants will be offering the limited time favorite summertime sandwich and mac and cheese. While the menu items might be a little more costly than traditional Panera menu choices, the flavor is worth the extra money.

As Claes Petersson, Panera’s Head Chef & Chief Innovation Officer said, “At Panera, we change our menu regularly to bring in the flavors of the seasons and we’re thrilled to offer our East Coast guests two outstanding Lobster entrees for the summer. Pairing juicy, delicious lobster with our iconic mac & cheese is truly The Familiar, Made Fantastic —and it’s a bold flavor sensation we think our guests will wish could be on the menu all year round.”

Although some people are lobster roll loyalists, the Panera version stays true to the classic. Featuring a classic New England Roll, the pieces of lobster claw and knuckle meat are dressed with a lemon tarragon mayonnaise-based dressing. While a few fresh herbs or a squeeze of lemon could help to keep the flavors light, the dish is a tasty version of the classic. When that road trip is out of reach, this lobster roll is a great option.

The Panera Lobster roll varies in price depending on locations. A small sandwich ranges from $9.99 to $10.99 while a large has a suggested price of $18.49 to $19.99.

For a heartier dish, the Lobster Mac & Cheese is a luscious forkful. The classic Vermont White Cheddar Macaroni and Cheese is topped with a buttered claw and knuckle lobster meat. Adding a little texture to the dish is the seasoned Panko bread crumbs. Actually, that touch of crunch makes the bite even more satisfying.

The Lobster Mac & Cheese can vary in price from $22.99 to $25.99. Also, it can be added to a You Pick 2 menu option.

Hungry for this favorite summertime sandwich? Do you think that more fast casual restaurants should add higher end menu items?