This little breakfast/brunch spot deserves all the love and support! It's probably one of my favorite brunches I've had in Boston thus far. The big disclaimer is that this place is tiny and gets PACKED (especially on the weekends, when I visited). We ended up waiting in line outside for about 45 minutes before we were seated. The wait staff was super kind and friendly, giving it a home-y vibe. The menu was incredible, with so many options, but I had to go with the baklava pancakes since I've heard such great reviews about them. These pancakes did not disappoint! They were packed full of flavor and were absolutely delicious - if you're a fan of sweet treats, you'll love this. I also ordered a Turkish coffee which was pretty good as well. The prices were also surprisingly not too bad for the area, especially given the portion sizes. If you don't mind a wait, definitely give this place a try! read more

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Definitely worth the wait! I came in as a group of six and we lived up at 10am. It was about an hour wait but once we were seated, we were greeted right away. They shared their best known items and we ordered the baklava pancakes and shashuka across the table. The pancakes! Wow!! They are sweet from the honey but savory and nutty providing a really lovely balance. No syrup is needed with these! You get three and they are fluffy and filling! I can't wait to return and try other items. Note, their spot is sadly not handicap accessible but they do offer take out. read more

Was looking for brunch on a Sunday, ended up getting takeout from this place as indoor and outdoor seating were full. There was a decent line that trailed out so we would've had to wait regardless. It was also cash only so that's something to take into consideration. Every table we saw while we were ordering had baklava pancakes so we knew we had to try it. Definitely were not disappointed! I've honestly never had baklava before, but this experience definitely makes me want to have the real thing. The pancakes were delicious, the quality of the actual cake really high and then the taste out of this world. If you don't like overly sweet things though, I wouldn't recommend it. The eggs benedict was really well done as well. The eggs ended up being more cooked through than I expected, but my friend actually preferred it that way. I enjoyed the home fries that came with it too. Overall, it was a really enjoyable experience. I'll definitely be coming back some day in the future! read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes and garlick eggs Benedict - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Still dreaming about the baklava pancakes what an amazing little place run by a warm, welcoming family. We came for the baklava pancakes but also thoroughly enjoyed some savory dishes - kids got simple scrambled eggs and sausage/ bacon - no complaints... 2 adults got the shakhuka - AMAZING and we also got the zatar bowl - very good! The Turkish coffee was strong and very fun to try and read the markings after :-) Can't wait to go back again... really want to try the kanefe pancakes next time. read more

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I somehow lived near this spot for a year, but never went because the line was always so long! I finally went on a Thursday morning to get breakfast with a friend. It feels very homey, with mismatched drawings and posters on the walls, and I'm glad I finally made my way over to such a comfy spot in Central. The baklava pancakes lived up to the hype, and the portion was pretty large, so I was able to split them with a friend. Remember to bring cash, because they don't take credit cards. read more

Amazing food and service. Family ran business that truly makes you feel like you're at home!

a hidden gem in boston! i got the za'atar egg bowl and it was so delicious! the food tasted very fresh and the flavors blended together very well, even though i was a bit skeptical of the combination at first. the menu is pretty diverse and has a good blend of mediterranean fusion. i'll definitely be returning to try their baklava pancakes and turkish coffee! everything was pretty affordable, but be warned it is cash only (and they don't have an atm)! the restaurant itself is pretty small with lots of wall art and cute writing on the walls! if you plan on visiting on a weekend, be prepared to wait about an hour to be seated. they don't take reservations or keep a waitlist, so you have to stand in a line outside the restaurant. that being said, the line moves pretty quick and it's worth it on a nice day! read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

I drove 20 minutes to go there. I waited 20 minutes outside to get in. When it was my turn they gave my spot to two groups that just arrived. No apology, no excuse from the waiter - just that I was solo and they had no table for me. This felt really insulting: if you have no table for solo visitor, just let them know and not stay in the street waiting. Be respectful with your customer. I didn't want to support businesses treating customers like this. The food may be good but they treat their customers badly. read more

I love the brunch here. Delicious, Fresh food as well as authentic Mediterranean items. The MOUNDS of vegetables served as sides are a healthy, filling touch. The Jerusalem Omelet ($9) was perfect. The chocolate chip pancakes ($7 + $3 for chocolate chips) were amazing fluffy and delicious. Loved the hummus and plate ($6.50). CASH ONLY, homey and casual interior, polite service. read more

Brookline Lunch - Chocolate Chip Pancakes ($10), Hummus Plate ($6.50), Steak & Cheese Sandwich ($9) - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Very yummy place! It's cash only and we probably waited about 20 minutes in line outside. Portions are filling

Every time I've walked by Brookline Lunch there's been a line outside, so I never got around to trying it. But I happened to be in Central Square around 8 am on a weekend and it was open and empty--my chance had finally come! And honestly it did live up to its reputation. The place is very cool inside--I entertained myself while waiting for my food by reading the writing on the walls and looking at all the old license plates. Everything on the menu sounded so good it was hard to choose a meal but I went with the Za'atar egg bowl. It was flavorful and tasted fresh, and it was very big! I got two meals out of the leftovers. They had a lot of interesting breakfast options so I'll have to come back to try more. Someone wrote on the wall that the Baklava pancakes are a must-try, while someone else wrote on the wall that they're too sweet. Do with that information what you will. read more

Brookline Lunch - a wall with writing on it - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

AMAZING local spot for breakfast or lunch. Must try the baklava pancakes! This place is run by a husband & wife team and is super cute with lots of gorgeous plants outside and cute details inside (signature wall, vintage art). The baklava pancakes and spicy sausage shakshuka were incredible! Good prices for large plates. Cash only, so make sure to bring some! read more

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

Love this place! From the food to the welcoming vibes to the fun art work on the wall. This place felt like home growing up in Cambridge, I can always count on feeling spiritually and physically fed when I stop by. read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Came here a couple months and their brunch was so good! Keep in mind, this place gets packed on the weekends and you will probably have to wait in line. We waited for about +20 mins but honestly it was worth it. The food is fresh and flavorful- and extremely filling. The Baklava pancakes are a staple here and so yummy & not too sweet either! *It's also cash only!** read more

Brookline Lunch - Baklava pancakes, Greek omelette, Florentine Benedict - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Turkish coffee was amazing, baklava pancakes were decadent and unlike anything I've had in the past. I may have just been too hungry to notice while waiting in line but we weren't prepared for the cash only rule- had to step out mid meal to grab some from a nearby drugstore. Other than that, it was a great cozy breakfast spot that's a must visit for tourists read more

This place is beloved for a reason! It's hard to go wrong with brunch food, but Brookline Lunch is truly excellent. The baklava pancakes are a must try. The space itself is also fun -- people write little notes all over the walls, so it definitely feels like you're having a delicious brunch in a cherished neighborhood institution. Highly recommend! read more

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If you are in MA go check this place out. I was recommend to come here because I was told they never serve a bad plate and that was the truth. I came with a big group and did not wait too long even though they were packed. The staff was very friendly and even let us sign the wall! I was surprised that there was no Air conditioning but in all honesty between the amazing fresh food and the welcoming staff it was worth it. They don't tend to get a big group and they handled us perfec and got our food out quick. I also really liked the iced coffee it was nice and strong. read more

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We are long time fans of Brookline Lunch! Everything is always fresh and delicious with huge portions. Sweet family owners who are friendly and welcoming. Love supporting this Palestinian-run restaurant. Go on a weekday to avoid the lines! read more

The baklava pancakes are phenomenally good. From the very first bite I was in love. Rarely can I clear a stack of pancakes, but I made quick work of them. read more

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

CASH ONLY!! This has got to be my favorite place for brunching out. This hole in the wall restaurants offers a variety of different breakfast and lunch options. The only maybe downside is that the drinks menu is lacking-- very basic iced teas, coffees, and soda, but that doesn't matter when the food is so good. The staff are all super nice. Once you order they won't bother you again, which is A+ in my books. The vibe is spectacular especially if you go during a weekday when its not busy. Would highly recommend. read more

Brookline Lunch - Balaclava pancakes and Spicy Sausage Shakshuka - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Great interior and food was solid. However, the service can be better. Our waitress was giving us attitude for no reason read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Came here for brunch on Memorial Day weekend. As expected, there was a bit of a wait and we ended up in line outside for about 45 minutes after arriving at noon. Overall, food was tasty and came in large portions but service was a little lacking. Even once we were the next party to get seated and there were open tables, nobody seated us despite walking by the door where we were waiting. When we finally were seated, we were not given any menus for a while. In addition, they do not serve water except in plastic water bottles which cost $1 each - which they also forgot to bring to us until we reminded them ten minutes later. Would probably be better to order take out and bring it home rather than dine in at this restaurant. read more

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If you're here, it's probably because you heard about the Baklava Pancakes. Well, you heard right. The Baklava Pancakes are topped with bits of flaky Baklava pastry, nuts like pistachio, and drizzled with honey. If you're used to boring maple syrup/strawberry topped pancakes, these will blow your socks off. The crunch is a new addition to the pancake palette, and contrasted with the fluffy pancakes it's really something special. On the side (this is a brunch spot after all), we ordered the Benedict, which was just okay. The Hollandaise was on the lemon-y side, and the eggs were not poached to perfection. I'd go for the omelette or egg plates next time. read more

Brookline Lunch - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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We waited in the hot sun on a near 90-degree day to get into this place. My expectations were high, as I had heard good things about the food. After an hour-long wait, we finally got in, only to be seated in conditions that were worse than any sauna. Two broken ceiling fans, zero air-conditioning, and people packed in like sardines. It was just barely survivable, and I watched both customers and servers leave drenched in sweat. I thought to myself that the owner of this cash-only joint have very little respect for their customers. They think so little of us, that they can't bother to fix the fans or set up a paging system where people are not forced to wait in the hot sun. Meanwhile, they make money, CASH, hand over fist. I would love to see them invest a little bit of that in fixing up their joint to reasonable health and safety standards. I was lightheaded and drained when I finally got out of there, and will never return again read more

Hands down THE BEST place for brunch in Cambridge. It's amazing, appetizing and affordable. They were pretty efficient in the kitchen and we were served right away. Got the baklava pancakes and balanced that with some Greek omelette and eggs Benedict. The portions were size able so great for sharing as well. We came on a weekday so the line outside wasn't bad but I can see this being very busy on the weekends. No reservation so plan ahead! read more

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

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two words - baklava. pancakes. share them, they're huge! all of the portions are huge actually so share everything. the coffee can be skipped but everything else was incredible. the establishment is cash only and family owned, and the service was great. read more

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

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Be aware that this place is cash only. Brookline is a cute little mediterranean-inspired place with a variety of different brunch options. They have great benedicts, and the baklava pancakes are a must try. The prices are very reasonable, and the serving sizes are large with heaping portions of veggies and potatoes. read more

Brookline Lunch - eggs florentines - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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Everything was delicious and the staff was so friendly! The wait was worth for sure! The specialty knafa/Nabulsi pancakes and French toast, and the baklava pancakes were amazing and the side of steak was a great deal. Would highly recommend if you looking for the best pancakes and breakfast around! read more

Brookline Lunch - Knafa/Nabulsi pancakes and French toast, baklava pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Came here for a quick bite and was not disappointed by the food. Service is bad, they didn't have water which is why I am giving it 3 stars. The chefs know how to cook. My buddy got an omelet and I got chicken curry which I thought may be risky but both cuisines were amazing. Come for the food! read more

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

My friends and I came here for brunch on Sunday afternoon. We noticed a long line of people waiting to get inside and joined the line, which ended up being about an hour and a half wait. Unlike other restaurants where you can leave your name and contact information, you must wait in line, or else you will lose your spot. Once you are seated, they ask you if you would like water, but they only serve you bottled water, which they also charge. We ordered the baklava pancakes, salmon benedict, and spicy sausage shakshuka. The baklava pancakes looked astounding but were way too sweet. The pancakes were drenched in syrup, and I had to constantly drink water in between bites to finish it. The salmon benedict was lackluster and was alright. The home fries that came with the dish were tasteless. They were probably the saddest home fries I have had. The best dish was the spicy sausage shakshuka as it had a good amount of flavoring. Overall, this place was alright, but not impressive to come back for nor wait over an hour simply to dine in. read more

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Cash only It's been years since I've been to this brunch spot and it hasn't changed. I used to come here when I lived in Cambridge during undergrad. This brunch spot was my go-to when I wanted ham with eggs benedict and I'd be stuffed for the rest of the day. Mom&pop restaurant with the warmest welcome every time I come here. Food always made with love. Service is always quick. Prices are really good. Prime time is always between 11am to 2pm so expect at least a 30 minute wait outside during those hours and it's first come first serve. read more

Brookline Lunch - Eggs Benedict with Ham - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

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I got the Jerusalem omelette and it was okay. I feel like it was nothing special. I also got to try the Baklava pancakes and that was much better. Maybe a little too sweet. They don't serve free water so you'll have to buy a bottle of water or go without water. They are also cash only. Overall, food and service were meh. I think you should go with reasonable expectations, because if you believe the hype you might be disappointed. We went at 8:30am and there was no line, but I wouldn't wait in line if I go again. I would probably try one of the pancakes next time. read more

Cute brunch spot in Cambridge. I went there with a couple friends and we got the sweet breakfast options (Nutella French Toast, Baklava Pancakes, Blueberry Pancakes). Overall, food was amazing but the place is pretty small so not the best for big parties. Didn't get to try much of their savory options but everything looked great. I'd recommend going rather early though since there was a rather long line when my friends and I came to visit. read more

Brookline Lunch - Nutella French Toast Baklava Pancakes Blueberry Pancakes - Diners Near Me - Cambridge, Massachusetts

Found this place while in town for business. The staff were so friendly! My coworkers and I each had different dishes, I stuck with pancakes and bacon. Great flavor for both! The seating is limited and some may not be accommodating (size wise), I'm 5mo pregnant and it was quite snug. They don't do CC/debit card payments, but do accept cash or VENMO payments. I would recommend this place and likely go back if I'm in town. read more

Updating my review: Ok the baklava pancakes were amazing. Don't get the regular pancakes, they were dry and bland, but the baklava ones were next level delicious. Service here is always great and the restaurant is cozy with a lot of fun decor. read more

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Pancakes are the hot item here, won't be disappointed. Mom and pop restaurant, literally. Small little spot downtown with walking distance from my hotel read more

A cute "mom and pop" restaurant just off Mass Ave! Stopped by for breakfast on a weekday, right as they opened. I love the restaurant's vibe--very homey, and the owners were super friendly. I ordered the shakshouka, which was a good portion size. I loved that there were lots of veggies and garnishes. The dish was filling and flavorful. Only downside was that the egg was more cooked than I expected (I prefer runny/jammy egg yolks) and that water is not included. Other than that, a great place for a casual breakfast! Planning on coming back to try the baklava pancakes. read more

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

I was super excited to eat here because of their famous baklava pancakes. The vibe was really cool and felt homey, it's a small cafe but the service is extremely fast. The baklava was good but it's also sweet so it's a tad hard to finish it all but it's really delicious. The garden omelette was delicious!! It was well seasoned and all the veggies went well together. I'm definitely coming back to try their other dishes! (They don't take cards so bring cash or download venmo!!) read more

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

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Just a magnificent middle eastern breakfast joint. Very welcoming. Very cozy. Very delicious. Menu was awesome... selections were fantastic. The baklava pancakes were a grand slam. The shakshuka was tremendous. Everything we tried was wonderful!!!! read more

A cozy, unique Mediterranean spot in the heart of Central Square. This family owned restaurant is incredibly friendly. With the open design, I've even had multiple conversations with the chef. Like most other restaurants in Cambridge, the space is tight, but the tables are spacious enough for sharing plates. Some of the meats here are halal, but the bacon and ham are not. By far, the most unique item on the menu is the Baklava pancake. Instead of syrup, it uses attar (Arabian inspired sugar water), and is adorned with pistachio and baklava pieces. I observed almost every table order one of these, and for good reason! It is delicious, but very sweet. The rest of the food is good as well--the Zaatar bowl and veggie shakshouka in particular. However, there are limited eggless options, and almost no vegan options. I'd love to see the menu grow to incorporate more variety. Make sure you have cash, as it's cash only! read more

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