The Bottom Line
- Delicious Jewish food
- Warm and inviting atmosphere
- Very long waits and crowded dining during mornings and weekend brunch hours
- Not many vegetarian options
Description
- Location: Zaftigs, 335 Harvard St, Brookline
- Phone: (617) 975-0075
- Hours: Daily 8 am to 10 pm
- Website: zaftigs.com
- Awards: Winner of numerous awards including Boston Magazine’s “Best Neighborhood Restaurant” (2003).
- Note: Zaftigs food is not kosher.
Guide Review - Zaftigs Delicatessen
Zaftigs' menu consists of traditional plates, sandwiches, and some other dishes that are not distinctly Jewish, but which are good nonetheless. The sandwiches are mostly hits; the classic Rueben is stuffed with pastrami, sauerkraut, Russian dressing, and melted Swiss cheese between two perfectly crispy slices of pumpernickel. The Rachel is an equally good choice. However, the Liverwurst sandwich arrived plain, which made for a slightly bland dining experience. Other favorites include the potato pancakes served with sour cream and apple butter, and the meatloaf drenched in rich mushroom gravy. The majority of Zaftigs' food includes meat of some kind, so vegetarians may not find many options. All sandwiches are priced from about $8 to $13, while entrees are priced at $10 to $16.
Zaftigs' breakfast plates are consistently excellent and are what really draws in the crowds. Some of the more outstanding dishes include corned beef and hash, banana stuffed French toast, and the San Francisco Joe’s Special, scrambled with savory turkey sausage and vegetables. Most breakfast plates fall into the $5 to $10 range.
Visiting Zaftigs is always a welcome experience, whether you’re fueling up for a day out or looking to end a trying day with some delicious comfort food. I highly recommend it.
