Zaftigs Delicatessen   

So much more than your typical Jewish deli, Brookline's Zaftigs is one of Boston's most popular breakfast places. Living up to its moniker, Zaftigs occupies a large room divided into two dining areas. The wall art is wonderful, featuring big, bold paintings of bygone delis and plump Jewish mothers. Background music is also suitably retro, leaning toward Frank Sinatra, Charlie Parker and Chet Baker. The menu, in contrast, is a modern version of old-fashioned deli food; try the smoked salmon quesadilla or oriental noodle salad with chicken. If you yearn for traditional fare, though, don't worry -- there are plenty of kugels and knishes to go around as well. Its super-sized reuben requires two hands to eat. On weekends, you'd better get here early as the crowd descends for excellent corned beef hash, thick slices of challah-bread french toast and scrambled eggs with lox and onions. Fortunately, breakfast is served all day and carryout is an option, so you can fulfill your gefilte fish fix anytime.