By NEVA TRENIS

THE FREE LANCE–STAR

Panera, the new artisan bakery and café in Central Park, is part of a 500-restaurant chain that spans from Colorado to Virginia. And it proves that big is not necessarily bad.

I had heard enticing rumors from readers and friends about Panera, so I made a beeline to the new restaurant when it opened here recently.

I had to see for myself the quality of the rustic breads, the freshness of the ingredients, the friendly service and the attractive design of the café.

PANERA BREAD 1760 Carl D. Silver Parkway Central Park, Fredericksburg Phone: 540/785-3411 Hours: Monday through Saturday, 6:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. Price range: Sandwiches—$3.35 to $6.35 Soups—$3 to $4.50 Salads—$4.65 to $6.10 Pastries—less than $2 Drinks—$1.10 to $4 Atmosphere: “Fresh” and “friendly” are the keywords at Panera. Eat in or take out both breads and restaurant items. There are tables outside, but they overlook an often-full parking lot and a busy road. The inside is bright, cool and pleasant. Panera is popular, so expect to wait for a table at lunchtime. Credit cards: Major credit cards accepted.

Walk into Panera’s bright storefront and you’re greeted by a wall of freshly baked breads: spears of baguettes, square building blocks of country loaves, small balls of sourdough and rocky clusters of bagels. In front of that is an array of brownies with swirly cream-cheese icing, plump fruit-filled Danishes, cookies and muffins.

Panera’s interior is modern and sleek, but not too industrial. Wavy lamps hang from the ceilings, wooden tables invite diners to sit for a spell, and the aroma of fresh-baked bread hangs in the air.

The place runs with precision: You are greeted just inside the door with a warm hello and a menu. Pass by the tempting loaves and sweets on the way to place an order at the counter, pay, then leave the register with a number to place on your table.