April 23, 2008

By Clara Silverstein

 Mavens of knishes and rugelach may already have found their way to Brookline's well-stocked markets, but shoppers looking for expert guidance should book an Ahla Brookline Food Tour ($38 to $44 per person). Guides Leonid Naimark and Julia Goldberg, who are married, combine sightseeing and eating in their three-hour itinerary. Groups typically stop first for a slice of tofu cheesecake (below) at Rubin's Kosher Restaurant Delicatessen - "We start with dessert because life is uncertain," says Naimark - then meander down Harvard Street for bagels at Kupel's Bakery, latkes at The Butcherie, chicken soup at Zaftigs Delicatessen, and more. The last stop is Best Cellars for wine. Narration covers neighborhood history and is available in English, Hebrew, or Russian. By the fourth stop, you'll appreciate the stroll part of this Sunday outing. Tours offered Sundays at 10 a.m. or 2 p.m., or by appointment, 617-821-7667, brooklinetour.com

Picture by Christina Caturano