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A quick glance at the swank leather booths and wild artwork will clue you in that “this ain't your grandma's deli.” Zaftigs prides itself on being traditional with a modern twist, and that's made it a favorite. Waits here get very, very long. The tastiest and most affordable dishes are the kosher-style starters (kasha varnishka, knishes, gefilte fish, etc.; $4-7) The all-day breakfast options are quite popular, try the banana-stuffed French toast ($8). The deli sandwiches are phenomenal, try the pastrami or the corned beef. Watch those portions though, or you might accidentally walk away a little “zaftig” (plump) yourself. While grown-ups are noshing, kids are having a good time too. Crayons, pictures, and storybooks are handed out as kids arrive. The children's menu offers PB&J, hot dogs, hamburgers, grilled cheese, chicken soup with matzo balls, and potato pancakes. Prices range from $1.95 to $3.95. Half sandwiches are available from the full menu. Drinks are not included. High chairs are on hand, and there is a changing station in the handicapped accessible bathroom. Tip: Be prepared for crowds and long waits on the weekends. Most families show up for breakfast when it opens at 8am. If you need to pass some time while you wait, there is large elementary school playground next door. If you're hungry, the delicious smells coming from the kitchen may be too much to bear.

New England's oldest and largest supplier of Jewish books, the Israel Book Shop also has fantastic selections of Jewish music, art, and jewelry that draw people from miles around. With friendly staff and plenty of room to browse, it's the perfect place to get that “Oy vey it's hot” oven mitt ($13) you've always wanted. Proclaim both your faiths with a Hebrew Red Sox baseball cap or yarmulke ($15). This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Newly arrived on the Brookline kosher scene, Tiberias does not quite have the pull of legendary Rami's up the street, but it may give them a run for their money soon enough. Specializing in Middle Eastern cuisine and named after an Israeli city, Tiberias proves that everything from falafel to hamburgers can be served up with pita and the usual salads and sauces ($3-7). The lack of crowds translates into relaxed service; if you can pull off a bit of Hebrew, you may just find yourself with some free falafel while you wait for your food. Also open on Sa from when the Sabbath ends until 10pm; closed on Jewish holidays. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

Taam China serves up the finest kosher Chinese food in the city. That isn't saying a whole lot, considering it only has one competitor, but if you're in the neighborhood, the menu won't disappoint. Cramped seating means the best bet is probably take-out, but don't worry: traditional favorites like scallion pancakes ($5) and sesame chicken ($12) will definitely stay crispy on the quick bus back to campus. Also open on Sa from 30min. after the Sabbath ends until midnight. This section contains information from Harvard Student Agencies' Unofficial Guide to Life at Harvard.

A 30-year-old business where you'll find dreidels for kids (toy dreidels run from 30 cents to $6) and for adults (high-end dreidels run from $20 to more than $100). The store, which has a play area for children, keeps a set of instructions on hand for people who want to learn the rules of the game.