Walked here from Newbury Street, along Massachusetts Ave, across the Charles River, gorgeous blue sky with puffy clouds, on a journey to come to this delicious, amazing place. My point is: It's Worth It! My daughter brought us here two autumns ago and I was determined to come back. At 12:30 on Wednesday it was not crowded, many people went in to pick up takeout. We waited maybe 5 minutes for a booth to be free for 5 of us. Our server was helpful telling us the crowd favorites and that's what we ordered, 3 shakshukas and 2 Zatar egg bowls. They were kind to modify one of the shakshukas to make it dairy free for my brother. He also ordered a Turkish coffee. The whole vibe of the place is welcoming, hospitable, warm. The walls are covered with people's signatures and sharpie messages. Popular movie posters festoon the walls and the tabletops under glass. It best of all are the aromas wafting from the kitchen that say "come and rest, enjoy, you are welcome!" Highly recommend, and yes, I'll be back! read more

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Delicious. Long wait most do the time but so worth it. Cool ambiance, kinda vibrant graffiti skater boy energy, very diner. Mediterranean and middle eastern influence in the cuisine for sure with creative spins. Good service, great recommendations from our server. Tough finding parking in this area. read more

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Visited on a weekday morning and there was no line to get in. The main thing I came for was the viral baklava pancakes, and they did not disappoint! It was perfectly fluffy, crunchy, sugary but wasn't unbearably sweet. The shakshuka was also solid with nicely crisped potatos and a great variety of vegetables. Looking forward to coming back soon! (as a heads up they are cash only so come prepared) read more

Brookline Lunch - Shakshuka - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Please come here and support a wonderful palestinian restaurant with the most delicious baklava pancakes ever!! They are super filling though so I definitely recommend sharing with a friend if you get them. It's a tiny restaurant, hole in the wall place but the service is nice but do be warned it is cash only. The place was sweet and I enjoyed their potatoes too!! Very unique and well seasoned read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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If you're wondering what the line down the street is for, it's for Brookline Lunch! It took about 1.5 hours to get a table inside, and it's cash only. There are so many options on the menu which are savory and sweet, but I came specifically for the baklava pancakes. The portion size was huge and for one person, you'd probably eat 1/3-1/2 of it and be stuffed! The pancakes are beautiful but I felt like they were missing something. I wanted them to be more sweet, although some reviews said they were too sweet. I wonder if they offer more syrup on the side? The wonderful people working here are very nice but it does take a while to order and get your check. The inside is crowded but it seemed like everyone was enjoying themselves. The shakshuka looked amazing! read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This is a nice hipstery brunch place with great food. The tables and decor are cool and artsy. The menu is unique, especially the baklava pancakes were delicious. I'm honestly still thinking about them! Service was good, albeit a little rushed because of how busy it was there. They also didn't have tap water and only sell it by the bottle which I found odd. It also was really loud inside, which I know is a trend nowadays for late night dinner places but kinda jarring for brunch. Being cash only also makes it a bit difficult, since most of my friends and I don't carry cash usually. But the food was so good that it's still 4 stars! read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I came here for lunch last Sunday and there was a line across the block. My friend highly recommended this place so we managed to stay in line long enough to enter. It was very warm and humid inside the restaurant. They should get a stronger AC system to let their patrons enjoy their meal. We were given a table on the side. They have a brick wall where several people have written messages on it. It is a cool way to build your restaurant with a community feel. The waitress mentioned that this was a cash only restaurant which is understandable even though I don't usually carry much cash with me. I ordered the Greek omelet and my friend ordered the breakfast platter which came with two eggs and toast. We ordered iced coffees to drink. It was a cheap cost for a quick egg breakfast that you usually don't find anywhere else in Cambridge. My Greek omelet was decent. It was mostly overpowered by the large amount of feta cheese. There were more vegetables than eggs which I didn't like. I didn't end up finishing all of the peppers that were on my plate. Overall the food was okay but I probably will try somewhere else next time. I would personally go somewhere that has air conditioning and accepts credit cards for easier payment. read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This place is the definition of what everyone wants when they say, "a hole in the wall"-- it's eclectic, no frills, but has delicious food at an affordable price and located in the convenient and bustling, Central Square. My husband and I love the Middle Eastern twist on a lot of the brunch favorites, and he also enjoyed getting a Turkish coffee outside of just Andala (which is also very close to Brookline Lunch). The Baklava pancake looked like it would be overly sweet but actually had the right amount of syrupy sweetness without it being overwhelming. Their spicy sausage shakshuka was also a nice variation on a brunch classic. Service was fast and friendly, the owner gave all the customers a cold water bottle since this was in the middle of August and unfortunately they have no AC. Would definitely come back, make sure you bring cash! read more

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Had the best brunch here, it is definitely worth the wait & cash only experience! Once we got our orders in, the food came out pretty quickly. We were entertained by the heavily decorated walls and tables, filled with movie posters, license plates, and handwritten messages. I ordered the za'atar egg bowl and loved the mix of veggies that came with it, the pita bread tasted super fresh too. My friends ordered the shakshuka and Jerusalem omelette, and we all really enjoyed each of our dishes. The baklava pancakes were absolutely unforgettable. They came out first and we couldn't resist having a few bites before our mains, it was also the best last bite of the meal! read more

Brookline Lunch - Za'atar egg bowl - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I have lived in the area for a while and been curious about this place since there is basically always a line going out the door. Well I finally tried it and I have to say, I get the hype! I came on a Saturday at 11:15 and waited in line about a half an hour to be seated. The line looks intimidating but it does move along at a reasonable pace. We got our drinks - coffee and water (they only had bottled) - pretty much right away. Service was quick and friendly. I ordered the Za'atar egg bowl and loved it! It comes with 2 poached eggs, home fries, naan bread, feta, and lots of veggies, both cooked and fresh. It was delicious, flavorful, and very filling! Great portion for what you pay. The only downside - and the reason I'm rating four stars instead of five - is that it is SO loud. I had to basically shout to be heard over the noise. I think if I come back, it will be on a weekday to see if things are quieter then. I do still need to try the famous baklava pancakes so I will be back! read more

Brookline Lunch - Veggie sandwich - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I've wanted to try Brookline lunch for a while now and I finally had the chance to try it. I got there early on a Saturday and there was a line. I waited 30 minutes and was able to get a table for two. The restaurant is no frills and they're also cash only - so make sure you have cash on hand. There isn't a lot of AC inside either. The service is relatively quick and the portion sizes are big. I got the baklava pancake and the Shakshuka and they were both good. read more

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There are plenty of reasons why people willingly line up in the elements for a seat at this charming brunch nook. Brookline Lunch stands out not only for its cozy, welcoming atmosphere but also for its unique Middle Eastern twist on classic breakfast fare. The star of the menu -- and perhaps the dish you'll see on nearly every table -- is the famed baklava pancakes. These fluffy, buttery stacks are drizzled with fragrant rose syrup, crowned with pistachios, and topped with delicate shards of filo. They're familiar yet unexpected: part comforting pancake, part decadent baklava, but transformed into something entirely new when combined. While their indulgence may not suit every palate, they are undeniably a must-try. I also loved the Big Fish Salmon Omelette, generously filled with rough-cut vegetables that gave it a hearty, homemade feel. The portion sizes here are no joke -- my two dishes were more than enough for two people to share. Service was warm and attentive despite the bustle of a full house, and the atmosphere carried that lively, friendly hum that makes a brunch outing feel special. One thing to note: they are cash only, so come prepared. If you're looking for brunch with a cultural flair and flavors you won't find anywhere else, Brookline Lunch is absolutely worth the wait. read more

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My absolute favorite spot in Boston. The food is incredible, the atmosphere is unmatched, and knowing it's family-run makes it even more special. Everything feels homemade and full of heart, and you can truly taste the care in every dish. The family who runs it is so warm and wonderful, which makes the whole experience even better. I really love this place and hope everyone gets a chance to try it and experience how special it is. Just make sure to bring cash! read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes, Zaatar bowl, Shakshuka - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This place is popular for a reason- good hearty food, reasonably priced, cosy interior. Service is quick. It was relatively quiet on Xmas Eve (ie. almost every table was taken but without the long line outside!) The home fries were outstanding, and we enjoyed everything we ordered- eggs Florentine, egg and cheese sandwich, blueberry pancakes and scrambled eggs. read more

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This is such a gem of a restaurant in Central Square! My friend brought me here for brunch and we had such a lovely time - we walked in without a reservation around 11:30 on a wekeday and were quickly sat down at a table (only downside was that our benches were a tiny bit wobbly and everytime someone behind me moved around, I felt it, but it wasn't overly bothersome!). Everything on the menu looked super tasty and when we glanced around at everyone else's food, it only confirmed that we couldn't go wrong with anything that we ordered! While the baklava pancakes are what the restaurant is most famous for, we were both in more of a savory mood. My friend ordered one of their eggs benedicts and hot coffee while I got their spicy sausage shakshuka and I couldn't resist getting a hot chocolate. The portion sizes are super impressive! Both of our plates were about ~$15-17 and we were blown away by how much food there was, as well as the service! I really enjoyed my shakshuka - the plate comes with so many components - home fries, roasted veggies, beets, cabbage, sausage, and poached eggs, and everything mixed together tasted so fresh and flavorful! It normally also comes with naan but they're very accommodating with a gluten allergy, they just don't have a substitute for it. They're also quite heavyhanded with the amount of feta cheese they add to the dish (as you can see in the picture) which is great if you're a fan and even though I'm not the biggest fan of the cheese myself, I didn't mind it that much! I've seen reviews about the place being cash-only but they do take card (maybe it's a new recent change) and there were absolutely no issues at all! read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

The food is good and the staff is friendly. Affordable prices and warm atmosphere are big plus. The only small issue is that they only accept cash, but it doesn't affect the overall experience. read more

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This spot is cash only and can get busy so definitely come on a weekday to avoid the lines!! I love a neighborhood spot that very obviously has locals, with workers that make you feel at home. This place is so cozy with warm and vibrant decor. We shared the shakshuka, which had chunks of sausage and flavorful fresh veggies. The eggs were perfectly cooked and everything went nicely together. But the showstopper was their famous baklava pancakes! Soaked in syrup with pieces of baklava and pistachio, it was delicious! I will definitely come back soon read more

Brookline Lunch - spicy sausage shakshuka - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Best pancakes I have EVER had! Got here early on a Sunday morning and queued for about 25 minutes (not too bad!). We got the famous baklava pancakes and they had a special Nabulsia pancake for this weekend. I think they only have it a few times of the year. It's layered with mozzarella and shredded kataifi pastry, has sweet ricotta on top with more kataifi and pistachio! I thought it would be too much but it was my favourite out of the two! It was PERFECT!! read more

Brookline Lunch - Nabulsia pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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NEW FAVORITE BRUNCH/LUNCH SPOT !! Tried out Brookline Lunch yesterday with a friend and it was absolutely divine! There was a small line, but I had a feeling it was worth the wait. Ok Google, it said they usually close at 3pm and we got to the front of the line right before 2pm. Turns out that day there were closing at 2 but they still took us in for lunch. Once inside, the restaurant is nice and cozy with a homey feel. We ordered the popular baklava pancakes and the Jerusalem omelette. The pancakes were just the right amount of sweetness and moist. The omelette was SO good too! I was so happy to see how stacked it was with veggies and I loved grabbing a different veggie in each bite. I can't wait to go again! It's definitely a spot I'll be bringing family/friends when they come visit Boston! Something to note is that the restaurant is CASH ONLY. So just come prepared :) read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes & Jerusalem omelette - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I seriously love Brookline Lunch! It's such a cozy little spot with amazing food. The steak and eggs benedict is MY favorite, and the baklava pancakes are a SO SOO good. they're sweet, fluffy, and just so good. The whole place has this really homey vibe, and I love that you can sign your name or leave a little doodle on the chairs and walls. Just a heads up though, they charge for water, and it's cash-only, so make sure to bring some cash with you. Other than that, everything about this place is great. Good food, friendly vibe, and a cool, down-to-earth atmosphere. Definitely one of my favorite breakfast spots! read more

Brookline Lunch - Steak Benedict - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

This place blew me away. From the fast service, incredible menu, the homey vibes, and the FOOD! Listen, I will be coming back when visiting Boston. Our table decided to order multiple dishes so we could share and try each others. The portion sizes are large enough for sure. We ordered the Jerusalem omelette, Baklava pancakes, and the huevos rancheros. We also ordered the Turkish coffee. Chef's kiss as this combination may have been one of the best meals I've ever had in my life! The walls are covered in endearing messages from guests and the seating, though a smaller establishment, are a nice size (I fit my luggage next to me ). This is a cash only restaurant and there's an atm across the street as well as a target right around the corner for convenience if needed. Also, Brookline is a cute side of town. If you're in Boston check this place out and if you don't get anything else, get those Baklava pancakes! You won't be disappointed. read more

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The vibe inside is cozy and fun. It's a small place that's usually busy so keep that in mind if going with a group. The menu is extensive and combines different cultures in its breakfast/brunch foods, would recommend the zaatar eggs. It is CASH ONLY, so make sure you have cash on hand. Convenient spot in Cambridge! read more

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The baklava pancakes were so good, and Jerusalem omelette was pretty good as well. The portion size of the omelette was huge -- it came with the copious amount of veggies, feta cheese, potatoes, and like 4 pieces of toast. The inside is cozy and casual, and there's a huge line on the weekends. The line was moving pretty slow, so we ended up going back on a monday read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Baklava pancakes lived up to the hype! Went on a weekday so didn't have to wait in line. Coffee was okay but I'd go back for the pancakes. Cash only establishment, had to go to atm right before read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Delicious! Very kind staff. Food was very well spiced. Super cute and cozy interior. We recommend the spicy shakshuka and the baklava pancakes. read more

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This is a super cute diner in Central Square that has recently gone viral on TikTok due to its baklava pancakes. I stopped by on a Friday morning around 9AM to try to avoid the weekend crowds. Despite this, my friend and I still had to wait about 15 minutes to be seated since there aren't that many tables. I was a little turned off by the waitress immediately telling us to leave and wait outside as soon as we opened the door, and by the fact that she told us that they don't serve any tap water as soon as she came to take our drink orders. Restaurants, especially casual restaurants, refusing to serve tap water is one of my biggest pet peeves. She informed us that they had bottled water (a waste of plastic), juice, or coffee. We asked for orange juice and were given kid-size bottles of a cheap brand orange juice. Oof. Luckily the food was pretty decent. The famed baklava pancakes were very tasty. I wish they served a little syrup on the side since the center of the cakes were rather plain in taste, and the pancakes on their own weren't flavorful enough to make up for that. The shakshuka egg bowl was also pretty good though not as good as the pancakes. My friend loved that it came with plenty of fresh veggies, and I liked how nicely poached the eggs were. The home fries on the bottom soaked in smoked paprika oil were especially good. Prices were reasonable for how huge the portions were. You will leave with leftovers! Overall, it was good, but I wouldn't wait more than 20-25 minutes to get in. I think Boston is really lacking in good brunch places in general compared to other cities, so this is probably one of the better ones here. read more

This restaurant has a relatively small seating area and is CASH ONLY. Service was very fast-paced and to-the-point. They don't offer any tap water, so you need to either purchase the bottled water or any other beverage. Food portions were very generous and I really enjoyed the baklava pancakes. I would recommend the pancakes and ordering takeout/delivery if possible. read more

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Very good. Came here to celebrate daughter's birthday. We are both foodies and this place got great reviews. Also was very intrigued about the baklava pancakes. I got the baklava pancakes. They were very good, just what they say in other reviews. So different and interesting. I am glad I tried them, I don't think I would order them again. Daughter got the Zaatar bowl, and that looked great. I think I would order that on my next visit. Hubby got omelet and was pleased by that. It looked an tasted great. I checked. Having given them 5 stars, and complimented their food, I would not go back there. This restaurant is more of fast food feel, rather than a place to enjoy each other. When we arrived we got the expected line outside, and got inside in about 30 minutes. It was not a quick line. When we were leaving, the line was even longer. This is a place for locals. It is quite small and the inside, though decorated nicely, felt like the inside of a pizza place. Yes, there is table service, but it is louder, and a faster atmosphere. I like that the walls are all written on. Also, asked for water - tap water - no tap water. Had to buy a bottle. Does anyone else feel this is odd? read more

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This place is a must try! They offer a variety of dishes, all with a twist. All the dishes were hearty and packed with flavor. The accompanying veggies in each dish were a nice touch. The pancakes are one of one and must get, i've never had anything like it. Our server was so lovely and gave us great recommendations. Just as a FYI this place is cash only. read more

Brookline Lunch - Steak Benedict Baklava Pancakes Za'aatar bowl - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Worth the wait! (Even with the line out the door the wait is not too bad because their service is quick). Their dishes are full of flavor--everything we tried was delicious. And their chicken is halal! Note: they are cash only! We got the za'atar egg bowl, spicy sausage shakshukah minus the sausage/sub chicken, and a chicken kabob bowl. The za'atar egg bowl was definitely my favorite. I've had the baklava pancakes before and they're sooo yummy if you're in the mood for something sweet! read more

Brookline Lunch - za'atar egg bowl spicy sausage shakshukah minus the sausage/sub chicken chicken kabob bowl - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Amazing experience! Our local friends told up to try here while visiting for our daughters graduation. Amazing staff and amazing food, the owners are true sweethearts as well! 11/10! read more

I was honestly disappointed with my brunch experience in Brookline Lunch. I have been wanting to try this place for a very long time because I've heard so much about it, and we waited in line outside the restaurant for an hour - so I expected a mind blowing experience. We ordered the zaatar egg bowl, and it was very average - it was nothing special. There were way too many potatoes in the meal, which took up most of the space - and potatoes wasn't even written on the ingredient list in the menu! The service wasn't great either - the servers took a long time to come take our orders, and they made us get up immediately after we ate. Also, it's very inconvenient how the restaurant only accepts cash. The vibe of the restaurant itself is okay. I'm glad I ticked this place off my list, but I won't be returning again. read more

I have no idea why this place is rated so well. Yes it's super cheap but it really is a 'hole in the wall' and the seats are very uncomfortable wooden benches which made it difficult to converse across the table. The food was not tasty and felt just like vegetables cut up and thrown together. Would not return unfortunately! Also they only take cash (or Venmo). It wasn't a good experience... Maybe works for college students on a low budget but otherwise I don't know why people would come! Sorry read more

The pancakes were absolutely some of the best I've ever had. The zataar bowl was crazy amazing! Great vibe! Saw Sean Mendes here at breakfast while on tour. Fun vibe with family owned from scratch food! read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Absolutely a must for breakfast. Great food, great prices and super service from a great family. The wait is worth it. Can't wait to go back and we will for sure. Thanks for a great experience. read more

I love the homey neighborhood cubes of this hole in the wall spot. My friend introduced me and I am so grateful. Of course we had to get the baklava pancakes and with rose water, this was TO DIE FOR. all other breakfast and food options were solid and I felt so happy here. It is simple with no frills, but super cozy. read more

Brookline Lunch - Benedict - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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If you're looking for a casual spot to get brunch this is it! I really like the eclectic and rugged decor which sets a nice vibe. I've ordered a bunch of items on the menu at Brookline Lunch and they're all generally good! They are famous for the Baklava Pancakes but the rest of the menu deserves some love as well, such as the sandwiches and shakshuka. Service could be a bit better but I have overall had a good experience here. read more

Hands down my favorite place for brunch in Boston. I waited in line for about an hour before being seated and the wait was SO worth it. It's so cozy and inviting inside; somewhere i could sit all morning/afternoon. I ordered the Greek Omelette and we got a side of baklava pancakes to share. Greek Omelette - an amazing spin on an omelette with tons of veggies and toppings. The za'tar topping is the best part. I also asked for their homemade hot sauce and that was the perfect addition. Baklava Pancakes- best pancakes I've had! Dowsed in rose syrup and so fluffy. A must try. I will be coming back and bringing all my friends! read more

Cute and cozy locally owned spot! Went in right as they opened on a Friday morning, service was quick and friendly. I split the baklava pancakes and Texan Benedict with a friend. Baklava pancakes $14 {4/5}: Warm, fluffy, and perfect level of sweetness. I'm not the biggest fan of rose water flavored things, but it was more subtle in this dish which I appreciate Texan Benedict $15? {5/5}: This is the best creative version of eggs Benedict I've had. Tender pieces of flavorful steak with a great assortment of roasted vegetables. Great choice to satisfy your savory craving when you eat the baklava pancakes ;) As others have said, cash only and bring your own water if you don't want to pay for bottled! Overall, well-priced and a great spot to catch up with some friends read more

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While brookline lunch is hyped quite a bit, this family operated establishment is a true hidden gem. Quite literally tucked away on a side street and extremely inconspicuous. The only thing you need to know is get the BAKLAVA PANCAKES. Words cannot describe how amazing these are. Fluffy and light, but so rich and flavorful. Other than that they're known for their Spicy Sausage Shakshuka, which is also excellent. It's more of a sausage and veggie breakfast bowl with a spicy shaksuka sauce rather than a traditional shakshuka. I ordered a Turkish coffee for the first time expecting it to be a bit sweet. Turns out it's brewed with cardamom and it was quite bitter. Turkish coffee closely resembles a shot of espresso rather than a cup of coffee. Things to know: it's cash only and they don't serve water, you'll have to pay for bottled water. read more

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