Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline

    3.8 (1.8k reviews)
    Open 8:00 am - 8:00 pm
    Updated 2 weeks ago

    Order Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline Takeout or Delivery

    Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline Photos

    ZAFTIGS DELICATESSEN - BROOKLINE ATMOSPHERE

    What's the vibe?
    Moderate noise
    Classy
    Casual
    Good for groups

    You might also consider

    More like Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline

    Recommended Reviews - Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Grilled chicken sandwich
    Angelina R.

    I'd heard about this spot from people all around ever since moving to Boston and I finally understand why: Zaftigs is the perfect representation of traditional Jewish home style cooking in Boston! The atmosphere is so nostalgic and warming from the moment you step inside, like a true classic neighborhood diner. The staff is incredibly kind and friendly making the experience all the more welcoming. And when it comes to the food itself, it's like a nice big hug to seal the deal. The flavors are tasty and satisfying without being anything over the top. Also, their many has a wide variety of options ranging from familiar diner foods to some unique Jewish specials that you can't find just anywhere. This place is great for a casual bite to eat for really any meal (plus they serve breakfast all day)! I'll definitely be back to try their breakfast too, but I must say their lunch/dinner foods also don't disappoint: the latkes and matzo ball soup are a must!!

    Roasted Vegetable Wrap with fries
    Cami C.

    I loved Zaftigs! Came here upon a fantastic recommendation from a friend and it did not disappoint. First of all the ambience here is so fun. It's very chill, laid-back and lots of good vibes. Lots of tables so we didn't have to wait long to be seated but I'm sure it gets pretty packed especially during brunch time on the weekends. Menu-wise, there really is something here for everybody. They offer their brunch menu all day. They have a lot of good looking pancakes and sandwiches as well as Jewish bakery items like their bagels that are on sale in the front. The staff seem to love their job and are not only friendly with each other, but great with the customers and will give you great recommendations if you are stuck between what to order. My friends tried the Reuben sandwich, the New Yorker sandwich, and the tuna melt sandwich, which they all loved. I got the roasted vegetable wrap, which was also really good. I appreciated that the menu has quite a few vegan and vegetarian options and easily indicate that on the menu. I think the dishes are pretty fairly priced and you get a good portion which I definitely appreciate. We all love our sandwiches but I would say the Reuben sandwich was probably the favorite among my friends. The fries were also very good which I don't always find to be the case at restaurants. Next time, I definitely wanna check out the brunch menu. From what I saw all the dishes looked amazing so I can't wait to be back! Would highly recommend stopping in if you're in the area!

    San Francisco Joe's Special
    Eve Neider N.

    The matzo ball soup is amazing and I'm used to a Jewish mother's matzo ball soup! I got the San Francisco special, which was good but it felt under seasoned. The home fries were nice and crispy. The food came out fast and they were great at refilling our coffee! The place gets busy and they don't take reservations so keep that in mind. The prices are also reasonable so I recommend for a nice breakfast in Brookline but it's not the best breakfast I've had

    Zaftig Combo
    Madeleine G.

    Perfect Jewish deli/diner for taking family from out of town! Love the knishes, omelettes, and my friend said the pastrami sandwich was delicious.

    Banana Stuffed French Toast
    Brian C.

    I have driven by Zaftigs so many times but never stopped in. Huge mistake. This place is fantastic. Very impressive. Tremendous breakfast. Parking is on the street. No lot. Sorry folks. You find a spot, you take the win. We walked in and they treated us very nicely. Friendly. Fast. Sat us right away. The kind of service you wish every restaurant had but almost none do. Now the food. My son had the stuffed banana French toast with berries. Enormous. Beautiful. He absolutely loved it. I had the sunny side up egg sandwich with bacon, tomato, and lettuce. Excellent flavor. Got a little messy at the end but that is perfectly fine. The potatoes were crispy and actually seasoned. Not the sad, soggy stuff you get at the weaker places. We ordered the blueberry pancake stack. Three big pancakes. Comes with syrup and a strawberry butter that was surprisingly amazing. Pancakes were a little dry, so do the smart thing and ask for extra syrup. Trust me. My wife had the eggs benedict. She said it was fantastic. Perfect eggs. Perfect sauce. No complaints. Zero. Coffee was great. Apple juice great. The bill was ninety one dollars before tip. Zaftigs is a winner. Great food. Great service. Highly recommended.

    Chicken Schnitzel

    SOOOO GOOD great food great service great ambience anything on the menu would probably be amazing

    Turkey Chili
    Amy Y.

    I must say that I was less than impressed on my last trip to Zaftigs. I had not been in a while, and when my friend wanted to have lunch at Zaftigs, I decided to give it another try after being disappointed several years ago. Unfortunately, Zaftigs has not improved and may have slipped further. The decor is busy, with hardscape elements that echo, making conversation at a small 2-top almost impossible. The tables are quite close together, so if it were quieter, you would be part of your neighbor's conversation as well. I had the Rachel sandwich that was soggy and pretty tasteless. I upgraded to the potato pancake-a huge mistake. It was an inedible hockey puck. Our server was pleasant but not very attentive, and never questioned why the potato pancake only had a bit out of it. My friend had the turkey chili, which she indicated was decent, though it was not overly flavorful. There are so many options in Coolidge Corner; do not waste your time or money here.

    Phil K.

    I've been to a lot of Jewish delis over the years (grew up Jewish, so delis were basically part of everyday life), and Zaftigs definitely brought back some of that feeling. The food was good -- not quite at the level of the classic delis I grew up with, but still solid. The pickles were incredible, easily the highlight and exactly how I remember them should be. The only hiccup was with the order and service -- little things like cheese showing up when it wasn't supposed to, onions added when I hadn't asked for them, and a couple of small items missing. Nothing that ruined the meal, but it did stand out. Overall though, it's a good spot that captures some of that deli nostalgia, even if it's not perfect.

    Food, Service, Ambiance was spectacular. I write this just because of the Empire Eggs Benedict's. So good, so good, so good...

    Turkey sandwich on ciesel bread
    Jay M.

    First time visiting this location. We usually visit the Natick location. Ordered the bowl of Matzah ball chicken noodle soup. A turkey sandwich on ciesel bread with the potato pancake add on extra for 2 bucks . Well , my soup was absent of any chicken, no carrots or vegetables, noodles a few, the Matzah ball was good and no issues with the ball. Disappointing Issue was it had no chicken . It appears the server when ladling soup into my bowl ... said no chicken for him and no carrots either ...The same I had at Natick location was excellent and was bountiful with ingredients and chicken... this soup was what attracts me to Zatfigs. Turkey sandwich needed a bit more turkey and was good and with fresh red onion, tomato, Russian dressing , Lettuce was very good. place was crowded as a Saturday and really noisy vs. the Natick location. Parking next to impossible if driving for Brookline. The potato pancake is the star today. Anyway.... I like the Natick spot and I'll be back.

    Food E.

    Another great brunch. Enjoyed the monte cristo sandwich with fries today. The sandwich is the perfect combination of sweet and savory made with french toast. Perfectly crispy French fries.

    Empire
    Monica H.

    First timer. Definitely need to stop by if you're ever in the area. Large portions of food! You will not leave hungry! Service is quick and friendly. Ordered the Empire, Reuben and Chicken soup. Food was delicious. We arrived a little before noon and the place was already packed. Wait wasn't long, but make sure entire party is there, otherwise they cannot seat you. Fair enough. We will be back to try some other goodies!!

    See all

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 day ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Brian C.
    167
    37
    41

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Phil K.
    7
    95
    101

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    10 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Jay M.
    70
    654
    5305

    9 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    11 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Food E.
    12
    694
    370

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    6 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Pam S.
    853
    1126
    6843

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 1
    Love this 2
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1
    Photo of Taylor G.
    0
    104
    162

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 1

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Lisa L.
    19
    11
    18

    1 year ago

    Delicious sweets, nice vibe! It was a good experience in trying something new to me.Recommend!!

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Joe D.
    2
    42
    25

    1 year ago

    Food was great. Services was excellent. Ambiance can feel a little busy and crowded for Sunday brunch.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 47

    Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline

    I'm going on with a group of 4 on Sunday. Is it possible to make reservations, or is it first come-first serve?

    They don't take reservations, it is first come first serve and sometimes if your entire party is not with you, you may not get seated. My suggestion is to get there early, they get really busy over the weekends.

    I'm supposed to meet friends here for brunch at noon on Sunday. Assuming we want to get seated as closed to noon as possible, would it behoove us to show up about 30-60 minutes early to get on the list? I don't think they take reservations, right?

    I agree that you should show up earlier, especially if you're on a schedule. Coolidge Corner has… 

    Aging white male here. Does anyone know if this is the former "Jack and Marions"? I used to make special trips there from PVD in the 70s. Looks like it might be worth an excursion.

    It is the former 'Jack and Marion's.' Zaftigs even has a beef-and-tongue sandwich named after its former incarnation.… 

    View All 4 Questions

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Breakfast & Brunch 16,282 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    The Friendly Toast

    The Friendly Toast

    4.2(196 reviews)
    2.0 miHarvard Square
    $$

    If you're anywhere near Harvard Square, The Friendly Toast is absolutely worth a stop, especially…read moreif you're looking for a brunch spot that's just as fun as it is flavorful. The space is super vibrant, filled with bold colors, retro diner touches, and a bunch of quirky statement pieces that make you want to look around before you even check the menu. It feels playful and energetic without being overwhelming...definitely a place that stands out from your typical brunch spot. One of the most unique things about this place is the drink menu. I loved that you can order flights...not just for mimosas, but also spritzers/mixed drink and even coffee-inspired drinks. That's not something you see everywhere, and it made the whole experience feel a little more elevated and fun. Everything we tried was solid across the board. The drinks were well-made, balanced, and honestly just fun to try in a flight format. The menu itself keeps that same energy going with quirky, pop culture-inspired names that make ordering more entertaining than usual. But it's not just about the names, the food actually delivers. The chicken and waffles were a standout: crispy, flavorful, and perfectly paired with the sweetness of the waffle. The traditional breakfast was done right too: simple, classic, and exactly what you'd want when you're craving something familiar. The real surprise for me was the crispy pimento potato bowl with chicken. It was packed and layered with flavor: comforting, a little indulgent, and definitely filling. You can tell they're intentional about how they build their dishes, not just throwing things together. Shoutout to our waitress as well...she really made the experience better. She gave great recommendations, helped us navigate the menu (which has a lot of options), and made sure we picked dishes we'd actually enjoy. That kind of service goes a long way, especially at a busy brunch spot.

    My husband and I had breakfast at The Friendly Toast in Cambridge about two weeks ago. It was our…read morefirst stop of the day and a great way to begin a day in Cambridge. The Friendly Toast was founded in 1994 in Portsmouth, New Hampshire, but has locations throughout New England now. It's easy to see why. This all-day brunch and bar is quirky and fun and unique. The decor of the Cambridge location is super eclectic. We arrived around 8:45am on a Saturday, and it wasn't busy yet (it's a huge restaurant). Since it was pretty quiet still, we had plenty of time to look around at the fun decor. The menu is as fun and eclectic as the decor with really fun small plates, breakfast classics, vegan options (like a tofu scramble and vegan pancakes), wild pancakes (cookie monster pancakes!?), and some healthier options. They currently have (or maybe always have?) a "Comeback Tour" menu of dishes that were popular that they brought back. My husband and I both chose from that menu. He got the Rice Baby Rice Comeback (grilled citrus chicken, seasoned rice, roasted street corn, black beans, pico de gallo and avocado topped with crispy tortilla strips, grated cotija, pickled onion, avocado cilantro sauce, and fresh cilantro), and I had the Medley Crue Comeback (two poached eggs served over a medley of home fries, tomatoes, spinach, red peppers, mushrooms, onion, zucchini and corn; topped with avocado cilantro sauce, lemon pepper sumac & fresh cilantro). Both dishes were great. They have a full drink menu, too, including flights (a mimosa flight, a coffee drink flight, and more), beer, wine, mocktails, classic cocktails, and more. I had their strawberries and cream coffee (cold brew with vanilla strawberry cold foam), while my husband stuck with a simple iced coffee. It's a really fun place for brunch, and I'd happy to return or visit another location. It's just a retro, quirky, happy place!

    Photos
    The Friendly Toast - Inside

    Inside

    The Friendly Toast
    The Friendly Toast

    See all

    Phinista - Tofu Bánh Mì

    Phinista

    4.4(320 reviews)
    1.3 miFenway
    $$

    I tried their iced vanilla latte and really liked it! The vanilla syrup was sooo good! I also got…read morethe banana pecan muffin and that was really good too! I waited a little while for my drink but it wasn't too bad. There were a lot of students working on their laptops so it was kind of hard to get a table inside, but they have outdoor seating and it was much easier to find a spot out there. I'll definitely be back!!

    One of the spots that people kept recommending for good coffee & Bahn mi. overall takeaways: good…read morematcha color & flavor, drinks were not too sweet (which is an Asian compliment!), quaint spot. Would rate 5/5 on drinks, 4/5 on food. We got the customer favorite: iced pandan matcha (with oat milk for preference) -- overall: good matcha color & flavor, pandan was not too sweet, ice ratio was good. My bf really enjoyed this one! I also got the Iced Saigonese -- strong viet coffee, still yummy with the sweetness & the foam on top enhanced the creaminess of the drink. We ordered the BBQ Pork Bahn Mi + egg, I would recommend adding the egg for sure! The egg was creamy & runny, giving it extra flavor. However, Bahn mi itself was not particularly special. We actually ordered the egg after tasting the Bahn mi & it was a little dry. Nice location, seating inside & outside but construction was happening outside, so it wasn't as enjoyable. We had went around 1PM on a Wednesday & the seats were filled. Saw some people with computers, with no problem.

    Photos
    Phinista - Interior

    Interior

    Phinista - Ube bun with custard

    Ube bun with custard

    Phinista - Iced Saigonese Sea Salt Phin

    See all

    Iced Saigonese Sea Salt Phin

    Zaftigs Delicatessen - Brookline - breakfast_brunch - Updated September 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...