This Jewish deli located on Harvard Avenue in Coolidge Corner is easily spotted by the constant crowd outside the door. Almost any time of day you can expect a wait at Zaftig's, partly due to the restaurant's all-day menu. Whenever you want, you can enjoy its hearty breakfasts, soups, salads, lunch sandwiches, and comfort-food dinners, not to mention the delectable dessert menu and to-go bake case filled with enormous brownies and cupcakes staring you in the face when you walk in the restaurant. There is something for everyone.
The name "Zaftig" is Yiddish slang for a heavyset woman, and the walls are plastered with different framed pictures of such a woman.This decor, accompanied by the dark wood booths and tables, makes the room very warm and inviting. The place is always bustling and is sometimes loud, and the wait staff is often busy, making service slow. Luckily, when you are seated, they serve you a plate of fresh bagel chips and an olive cream cheese to hold you over until the food arrives. Take care not to eat too many because the portions are large (and you will want to save room for dessert).
While the breakfast options are enticing, with offerings including granola pancakes, chocolate French toast, and a variety of omelet combinations, we opted for lunch. The deli has unique specialty sandwiches and hot meals, from macaroni and cheese to turkey pot pie. The menu also offers a variety of traditional Jewish foods, like latkes (potato pancakes), fresh lox, home-baked challah bread, and matzo ball soup.
It was difficult to choose, given the expansive menu, but ultimately I decided to stick to the basics and get a turkey sandwich on sourdough bread. Great choice. The bread was extremely fresh, the turkey was piled high and tasted freshly carved, and, best of all, it was accompanied by a mound of tasty french fries. My friends ordered salads, which all appeared very fresh, and included a variety of unique ingredients and homemade dressings.
I made a second trip to Zaftig's because I enjoyed it so much, and will likely return again. The prices are reasonable, and there are so many things to try. Both times I went I had lunch, so I am highly anticipating my next visit for breakfast. A-
Zaftig's
335 Harvard Street
Brookline, MA 02446
(617) 975-0075
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