Basma Cafe

198 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144, United States
+1 617-625-2727
$$$ Cafe
(53 Reviews)
Price Range $10–20

Basma Cafe, tucked into the heart of Somerville’s Teele Square, serves up more than your typical neighborhood cafe vibe. It’s a spot where the focus is clearly on straightforward, well-seasoned breakfast and brunch options that feel both familiar and thoughtfully prepared. Regulars and first-timers alike tend to lean into their breakfast sandwiches—think hearty options like the frittata sandwich wrapped in a large tortilla or the generous bagel and egg combos—that fill you up without fuss.

The atmosphere leans friendly and unpretentious, with a sense that this could be a family-run spot from the warmth of the service and the homely details customers notice. You’ll find locals enjoying a midday coffee or a casual brunch here, especially on weekends when the place fills up with a mix of students, neighborhood folks, and anyone looking for a reliably tasty and affordable breakfast within walking distance of Davis Square.

Coffee lovers will appreciate the quality of the espresso and cappuccinos, which complement the savory dishes nicely. While there’s not a sprawling menu, what’s on offer is presented with care—homemade touches like their blueberry pancakes and seasoned breakfast potatoes add a homey, satisfying edge to the experience that invites repeat visits.

The vibe is relaxed but lively enough to make it a convenient spot for a casual meet-up, a quick energy boost before heading off, or a slow brunch spent catching up with friends. Outdoor seating can be found when the weather allows, making it a pleasant pit stop on a sunny morning or afternoon in Somerville.

Ultimately, Basma Cafe feels best suited for folks who appreciate solid, flavorful breakfast fare without frills, served in a welcoming neighborhood cafe that prioritizes consistent quality and a familiar, comfortable atmosphere.

Highlights
Great coffee
Popular for
Breakfast
Lunch
Solo dining
What they serve
Coffee
Comfort food
Quick bite
Best for
Breakfast
Brunch
Lunch
Catering
Dessert
Seating
Accessibility
Wheelchair-accessible entrance
Wheelchair-accessible seating
Wheelchair-accessible toilet

Openings Hours

Checking

Monday

Closed

Tuesday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Wednesday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Thursday

08:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Friday

08:00 AM - 12:30 PM

Saturday

09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

Sunday

09:00 AM - 03:00 PM

53 Reviews
Calvin Moy

08 Jan 2026

Came here for a casual brunch and had their Steak and Cheese. It was absolutely incredible! So flavorful and satisfying. The staff were also lovely and welcoming, this place is a fantastic spot with great food and a lovely atmosphere. Can't wait to come back.

Corie B. Lewis

27 Dec 2025

Omg the homemade blueberry pancakes were SO delicious! I cannot even describe what they tasted like, just try them! I really liked the seasoning used on the potatoes. The place was clean and felt like home. The service was great! I got the vibe it was family owned and they made us feel welcomed! Would eat here again!

razan dennawi

21 Dec 2025

Just finished having brunch here and it was amazing! The food was all perfectly seasoned, and the cappuccino was wonderful! This will be our new go to place for brunch!

Marco de Laforcade

13 Dec 2025

Incredibly underrated Halal breakfast spot in Teele Square. The portions for breakfast sandwiches are massive compared to the price. My favorite is the frittata sandwich, which is basically a whole omelette inside of a large tortilla, priced at just over $7. Super well-seasoned with that diner-style flavor and caramelized vegetables. I also love getting a "grilled muffin", which is just as delicious as it sounds, for less than $4. Staff is incredibly friendly and while I usually get takeout, the vibes inside the cafe are immaculate. 5/5

Nathaniel F

28 Nov 2025

The absolute best of the breakfast spots within walking distance of Davis, and the only one where we've experienced consistent high quality. If you are a foodie, I think you'll find this place criminally underpriced for the subtlety and freshness of the dishes. The meatball shakshuka is my favorite.

Sarah Ikerd

26 Oct 2025

On my way to work, I stopped in to this cafe for a breakfast sandwich to go - and I was expecting it to be decent, something to last me until dinner. In fact, this egg & cheese breakfast sandwich was amazingly delicious!! This friendly family business also included some lentil soup, which was also really delicious! I mean every bite. I was definitely not expecting this. And I will definitely return soon to try more of their menu.

Nancy Grazado

20 Sep 2025

When we learnt that Chef Ayman had opened a new cafe we drove from Marblehead to check it out. Without a doubt the best breakfast ever and served with love from Ayman and son. Although a drive we will be there often.

Noam Shurin

15 Sep 2025

Such a cute new place for breakfast. The space is cozy and has great windows for people watching. As someone who doesn't eat most meats I really enjoyed that turkey ham was an option and the shakshuka as a vegetarian option. Also don't sleep on the pancakes they were excellent!

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