Darwin's

30. 10-2 Darwin's on Mt. Auburn heading toward Watertown. Summary: Confusing how to order, excellent food, decent prices, excellent variety.

I was anxious about going to Darwin's; I thought it would be similar in snootiness/high prices to Hi Rise on Brattle, but it wasn't. The prices at Darwins are OK - a couple of dollars less than Hi Rise. And the variety of sandwiches - breads, veggies, spreads, cheeses, and meats - is remarkable, simlar to Cardullo's.

The "line management" at Darwin's is poor. People were trying to order from all directions, and some who came in later ordered before others trying to wait patiently. A sign and divider to have people order from the back would be great.

Darwin's also is a small market with fresh vegetables, basic foods, and lots of wine. And, next door is a bakery/cafe to buy coffee and baked goods. Clearly they're doing OK.