The neon sign in the window says “Polish Sausage Factory,” and many people know J&T by no other name. The sausage is their claim to fame, but they make and sell much more. Their hams and bacon are fresh-smoked the traditional Northern European way, and the deli cases and shelves are lined with top-quality imported and domestic sauerkraut, pastries, pierogies, herb teas, chocolates and other delights. Still, the sausage is the big draw at the Santa Monica store—dry beef sausages and German-style pork, plus a variety of versions of the garlicky kielbasa. There are several regional varieties, some flavored with juniper berry, caraway and other herbs. Many are available either smoked or fresh—the fresh sausages can be boiled, fried or barbecued. All are vastly better than the prepackaged and preservative-laden stuff you’ll find at the supermarket. The shopping experience at J&T is a delight; it has been a gathering place for Northern Europeans for more than thirty years, and you’ll hear animated conversations in Polish, Lithuanian and German among your fellow customers.