Pret a Manger to Take Over Old Borders Space

Pret a Manger, featuring handcrafted, freshly prepared sandwiches, was before the 's licencing committee Monday night with plans to open a cafe in the space vacated by Borders last year.

"This is not a traditional restaurant where there's cooking," said Greg Donovan, owner of development firm G.A. Donovan Management Consulting Corp.

With 300 restaurants across the world, mostly in the United Kingdom followed by Hong Kong, Paris, New York City and Chicago, this would be the first one in New England. The sandwiches, made daily, are featured in refrigerated glass display cases. There's value placed on the presentation, as well as the quickness of service. 

They pride themselves on getting people in and out in 90 seconds. But with plans for 52 seats inside and a 34-seat seasonal outdoor patio, there's also plenty of space to sit and relax.

Pret a Manger also serves coffee and espresso, soups, croissants, cookies and more. They hope to be open by mid-November, from 7 a.m. - 9 p.m. Mon - Sat and 7 a.m. - 8 p.m. on Sunday.