Bread Co.'s New Additions Sure to Become Instant Faves

The Scene

Known as Panera Bread everywhere but here, sets the standard for sandwiches and salads in the St. Louis area. The Oakville Bread Co. is rather large, yet comfortable and remarkably clean. The staff is friendly, knowledgeable and eager to please. 

The Food

The offerings at Bread Co. change with every season. There always is something new to tempt your taste buds. The quality is the only thing that never varies. Hand crafted artisan breads are baked fresh every morning in each bakery-café. Healthy sandwiches and salads; hearty soups and delectable baked goods are always fresh and on hand. 

Something New

The current celebration (the word Bread Co. uses for seasonal changes to its menu) at St. Louis Bread Company includes new hot drinks, chili, mac n'cheese, bagels and cookies. 

It has to be said—the mac n' cheese rocks! Bread Co.'s take on one of America's favorite dishes is hands down the best macaroni and cheese I have ever had. Sorry mom!

The texture is creamy, smooth and oh-so-thick. This is one indulgence worth partaking. Initially, I could not identify the type or mixture of cheese used and was surprised and intrigued by the white color. The menu says it is Vermont white cheddar; I say it is nothing less than perfect. 

The all-natural steak chili with cornbread also is very good. An abundance of thin strips of brisket blended nicely with ground beef, bell peppers, onion and kidney beans makes for a hearty lunch or dinner. The cornbread served up as an accompaniment is the perfect complement.

They smartly serve the cornbread on the side, which I appreciated, as it is much too tasty to simply be placed in the chili. I enjoyed savoring each sweet, crumbly bite on its own merit. My tip: Order a bowl of chili and the rockin' mac n' cheese and combine the two. Super yummy!

I love coffee. I love chocolate. Take both and add in some peppermint and you have  Bread Co.'s new peppermint mocha. This velvety fusion of freshly ground espresso, foamed milk and peppermint is blended just right. The flavor is smooth and neither the chocolate nor peppermint is overpowering. At $3.99 for a large cup, the drink is a bit less expensive than other coffee shops and makes for a great holiday treat.

The new bakery items are sure to get your mouth watering. Chock full of nutty, fruity, chewy goodness, the cranberry walnut bagel is my new favorite. Spread a bit of holiday cheer by grabbing a bag of these beauties from your Oakville Bread Co. on the way to work. 

Catering

Kate Konkel is your local Bread Co. catering manager. Konkel is happy to assist in customizing the perfect menu for your group. You can reach her at 314-846-6800.

Giving Back

My favorite places are those that give back in some way to the community and to their customers. Bread Co. does both.

For you, they offer the "My Panera" member card. The reward card is free to join and provides you with unexpected rewards all year long. You will receive your first surprise just for registering. Ask any employee for your card when you next visit.

Bread Co. also donates all unsold bread to local hunger relief agencies. This definitely puts Bread Co. at the top of my list.