KYLE MURPHYStaff Writer

Residents who have been wondering when Panera Bread will open don’t have to ask that for too long, as the restaurant is set to open this Friday, Aug. 1.

A representative from Panera Bread confirmed to The News that the opening was moved up to on Aug. 1. The café will open at 6 a.m. and a special “bread breaking” ceremony will be held on opening day to celebrate the new cafe.

“Tullahoma will soon be home to its very first Panera Bread café, which is opening its doors at 1501 N Jackson St. at 6 a.m. on Friday, Aug. 1,” the representative said. “While this location marks the first in Tullahoma, it is the 27^th location in the Nashville market.”

According to the representative, the format of the bakery-café will feature digital ordering, a drive thru and a mobile pick-up lane. The new location will also employ 55-60 people.

As part of the celebration for the new location, the first 100 guests will receive a year’s worth of free “Your Pick Two” meals.” The “You Pick Two” allows guests to select any combination of two half size entrees from the Panera Bread menu including soups, salads, sandwiches and more. In addition, for a limited time (starting on opening day through Nov. 1, 2025), local nonprofit organizations, including schools, sports teams, scout groups and more can host a fundraising event at the new Panera bakery-café and Panera will donate 30% of the net sales from the event back to the organization.

 “We are thrilled to be opening the first Panera in Tullahoma,” Area Operating Partner Shajar Bhatti said. “We are excited to grow our presence in this wonderful community and look forward to delivering the great tasting food and impeccable service our local guests have come to expect from Panera.” 

About Panera Bread

Panera Brands is one of the world’s largest fast-casual restaurant platforms, with more than 3,700 company and franchised locations and approximately 120,000 system employees across 11 countries. A portfolio of complementary brands bound by common values and shared growth opportunities, Panera Brands is comprised of Panera Bread, Caribou Coffee and Einstein Bros. Brands. Panera Brands companies are independently operated and underpinned by industry leading technology, loyalty and high-quality ingredients. Panera Bread is a pioneer and market leader in fast casual, with leadership in ingredient quality, omnichannel access, digital convenience and engagement. As of March 2025, there are nearly 2,200 bakery-cafes, company and franchise, in 48 states and Washington D.C., and in Ontario, Canada, operating under the Panera Bread or Saint Louis Bread Co. names.