Hummus for a Cause - Image Source: en.annamrestaurant.vn
In the wake of the recent violent clashes between Israel and Palestine, restaurants across the United States are taking a stand on the issue. With protests, prayers, and solidarity demonstrations happening nationwide, social media has become an outlet for restaurant operators to express their views and raise funds for aid organizations on both sides of the conflict.
While chain restaurants mostly remained silent, Starbucks made headlines with its expression of sympathy for the victims and its stance against misinformation spread by certain union groups. Starbucks emphasized that the views expressed by these groups belong solely to them.
The conflict has also created a divide among McDonald's franchisees. McDonald's Israel announced plans to provide free meals to the Israeli Defense Forces, while McDonald's Oman donated $100,000 towards relief efforts in Gaza.
Meanwhile, independent restaurant operators have been more vocal in promoting fundraisers and calling for peace. A notable example is the Philadelphia restaurant group CookNSolo, which dedicated 100% of proceeds from its Philadelphia restaurants to United Hatzalah, an organization that provides emergency and medical assistance in Israel.
Israeli chef Michael Solomonov, co-founder of CookNSolo, expressed his emotions and support for the people of Israel. However, he also emphasized the importance of drawing a line between terrorists and the Palestinian community, mourning the loss of innocent lives on both sides.
Other restaurants, like Saba in New Orleans and Safta in Denver, have their own monthly fundraisers. Alon Shaya's Pomegranate Hospitality group holds "Hummus for a Cause," where a portion of the proceeds from each order of Tahini Hummus is donated to a cause close to Shaya's heart. This month, the donations will support Magen David Adom, the Israeli Red Cross.
It's not just American restaurants taking part in these efforts. The new shawarma concept, Döner Döner Kebab Kitchen in San Diego, has donated a portion of its opening day proceeds to the United Israel Appeal's Emergency Aid Fund. In Boca Raton, Florida, Way Beyond Bagels has been selling blue-and-white bagels to raise money for the JDC, a Jewish global relief fund. Similarly, in Houston, New York Deli and Bagel Shop Bakery have been offering blue-and-white bagels with all proceeds going to Israel's Hadassah Medical Center.
But it's also important to highlight the challenges that arise when speaking out on such controversial issues. Restaurants like Yalla in Seattle and Ayat in Brooklyn have faced negative comments and one-star reviews from individuals who do not agree with their positions. However, both restaurants also received significant support from those who understand the need for empathy and humanitarian aid.
Restaurants have become more than just places to enjoy a meal. They have become platforms for raising awareness, promoting peace, and supporting those affected by conflicts around the world. As consumers, we have the power to contribute to these initiatives by dining at these restaurants and showing our support for a world filled with compassion and understanding.
This article was updated to clarify that Pomegranate Hospitality is still in the process of determining the amount to be donated for its Hummus for a Cause fundraising effort.
Become a Restaurant Business member and unlock exclusive benefits, including unlimited access to all of our content. Sign up here.
