......In introducing more (and more exacting) criteria for judgement, we also became further immersed than ever in the city’s pleasures.....we’ve erased a few mental boundaries, actively seeking out the unexpected and lesser-known spots, ....Darwin’s Ltd.

Don’t be put off by the big Busch beer sign. Inside, Darwin’s feels like a hip country store with red tin tile walls. Loyal customers form a fast-moving line for sandwich specials such as the Brattle, a combination of smoked salmon, cream cheese, capers, cucumbers, tomatoes, and onions.

Order it on any of the nine different kinds of bread (among them, seven-grain, olive, and the yeasty sourdough), and wash it down with something from the large selection of wine and beer. (148 Mt. Auburn Street, Cambridge, 617-354-5233)

Boston Magazine, “The Best of Boston 2001”, edited by: Kim Atkinson and Alexandra Hall, August 2001. 28th Annual Best of Boston Issue;
the one with Aerosmith on the cover.