NYC Restaurants Confront Anti-Israel Harassment

New York City's reputation for inclusivity is being tested as some Israeli restaurant owners report facing harassment and vandalism from individuals protesting against Israel. The incidents range from customers spitting on restaurant windows to graffiti and organized boycotts.

Gazala Halabi, owner of Gazala's on the Upper West Side, has experienced individuals spitting on her restaurant's window, with one person telling her it was because she is Israeli. Halabi, who is Druze, not Jewish, prepares traditional family dishes. She described these encounters as menacing and noted that the constant pressure has led some Israeli restaurants to downplay their origin, rebranding as Mediterranean or Middle Eastern establishments to avoid controversy.

These restaurants, often packed with diners enjoying their food regardless of its origin, have had to make difficult decisions. Some chefs have chosen to remove explicit references to Israeli cuisine from their menus to focus on their cooking rather than confront what they describe as misinformation and animosity fueled by social media.

However, not all owners are altering their approach. Alon Kazdan, owner of Stripes Wine Bar near Union Square, reported a significant drop in sales and attempts to remove Israeli flags from his establishment following October 7. Despite the financial impact, Kazdan found support from the Jewish student community, reinforcing his decision to remain explicit about his restaurant's identity. He noted that many Israeli restaurateurs have a history of working with people of various backgrounds without issue.

Similarly, the owner of Ella's Café on the Upper East Side experienced boycott campaigns after October 7 but chose not to remove Israeli flags or menu items. He stated that for every customer who left due to the protests, two more came, including visitors who specifically sought to support the restaurant. He also recounted positive interactions, such as those with Christian patrons from Georgia who came to show solidarity.

Halabi, speaking about her own experience, remains resolute. "This is America, and I am free to be who I am. No one else will decide for me. I don’t give in to bullies," she stated. The article suggests that immigrants building businesses are a fundamental part of the American experience, and this should extend to Israelis without exception, urging New Yorkers to support those who remain proud and unafraid.