Lake Eola Panera Bread will close next year

click to enlarge Lake Eola Panera  Bread will close next year
Photo via debbiedooby/Instagram
The Lake Eola Panera Bread, a high-traffic lunch spot for downtown tourists and ducks, will close its doors for good in 2017.

A company insider told Brendan O'Connor over at the Bungalower that Panera corporate is looking to add a drive-through option to its sites, which makes the location at 227 N. Eola Drive somewhat obsolete.

Despite almost zero parking, sales were not a factor in its demise. The place actually got quite a bit of foot traffic and catering business, reports the Bungalower.

No exact date has been given for the store's eventual closure. But the EO Inn, which shares the building with Panera, is currently searching for a replacement restaurant.

Maybe a local cafe? Please.

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