Lunch at your desk just got a whole lot fresher!

Pret-a-Manger, the British fresh sandwich shop, opened its first DC location on the corner of 18th and I on Monday. Based on the idea that simple, fresh ingredients make not only the best food, but the best fast food, Pret offers a variety of preservative free, healthy baked goods, sandwiches, salads, coffees and snacks for breakfast and lunch. Their cheeky attitude is refreshing and the food delicious.

Don't be fooled by the boxed sandwiches and salads, they are made fresh continuously and the packaging makes them convenient to grab and go. Sandwiches and salads come in regular and "slim" (half) sizes. Perfect for those days when you want a soup and... or you're just not that hungry. I tried the tomato soup and a "slim" baguette with basil and brie. Both were fresh tasting and satisfying. I was a bit disappointed in the slice of white bread served with the soup - although it had a "homemade" sweetness that I liked, I found the texture to be a bit dry. I also enjoyed the Pret label Mango Mandarin soda - with a strong fruit taste and light carbonation, it was a true standout.

The full menu is online along with nutritional information. They use all natural, preservative-free, locally-sourced, fresh ingredients and, in the spirit of giving back, donate unused food at the end of each day to a food bank. Take a break from your burgers and processed food for a walk on the natural side.