I lived near Amel's as a child and was once traumatized by a very lengthy wait. My mother LOVES to to hear about it to this day. BUT - fast-forward 30 years and I once again live in the neighborhood; and NOW, Amel's is one of my all-time faves! The food is INCREDIBLE. The service is hilariously snarky (especially if you get one of the veteran servers) and the atmosphere is Yinzer-Chic. Their bar specials are out of this world and have a rotating schedule each week featuring gyros, burgers, wine and more. The dessert case is also delightful and none of it will destroy your bank account. Bring a group or go yourself - it's a trip to the Mediterranean via a short drive to Brookline!