Zaftigs Delicatessen

The Scene
First-time visitors to this popular, poll-topping delicatessen who expect bland, cafeteria-style seating are surprised to see hardwood floors, colorful paintings, large windows and comfy banquettes. On weekend mornings and weeknights, casually-dressed crowds often spill out onto Harvard Street. Speedy servers do their best to keep local families and area academics satisfied by constantly topping off coffee cups and water glasses.

The Food
While old standbys like chopped liver and stuffed cabbage are popular choices, Zaftigs ups the ante by providing a "new-Jewish" spin on familiar favorites: banana-stuffed challah French toast, cheddar-apple omelettes. With the breakfast menu served at all hours, many patrons make a dinner out of homemade sweet cheese blintzes and crisp potato pancakes (be sure to ask for some homemade applesauce). Popular deli sandwiches make up for their relatively average size by featuring quality meats like smoky Romanian pastrami and lean corned beef.