Best of Boston

1999 Best Deli, Jewish

Zaftigs

This isn’t the place to start a diet, unless you’re on a strict regimen of noodle kugel, knishes, and chopped liver. The fresh cheese blintzes and potato pancakes are to die for. And your Jewish mother will kvell over the brisket even if she doesn’t take to tray of offerings such as pork sausage and smokehouse ham. Kosher, this is not. In fact, what has made this “new Jewish”-style restaurant one of the eating spots in Brookline are the less traditional offerings, including cheddar-apple omelets and banana French toast. The wild artwork and hip young wait staff seal the deal: This ain’t your grandma’s deli.

335 Harvard St., Coolidge Corner, Brookline, 617-975-0075,