Panera Bread

While Panera is a chain, and would not be my first stop in Asheville, a town that has so many great local cafes and bakeries, it is a unique idea and a great resource. Free and unlimited wireless, very comfortable and classy seating areas, upscale feel with moderate prices. You can sit near the fireplace (if they have one in this location, don’t know) with a big cup of coffee (free refills) and read the paper all day. Nobody bothers you. For about $7, you can get a really decent 1/2 sandwich/small salad deal with a big chunk of wholegrain baguette. You could also substitute one of their excellent soups (many veggie flavors) for the sandwich or salad. I have spent days in Panera working on my laptop (they have outlets) and have developed very friendly relationships with the staff. They seem to welcome customers who linger, unlike so many places