Cathy’s Whim Cathy’s Whim

Episode Two: The F Train to Delancey Street Cathy and I have spent a brief 36 hours in New York before leaving for Tel Aviv. Like Israel, I have never been to New York and I am so grateful to eat at some incredible restaurants and see some fantastic sights. We took the F train to Delancey Street for dinner at the incredible Beauty and Essex on New York’s lower east side. Our colleague and good friend Samantha Dubrinsky from the Birmingham Jewish  Federation recommended this divine indulgent gem whose entrance is a well curated, modern day pawn shop with all sorts of vintage treasures. At the back of the shop is a larger door with a nice young man who opens it so you can enter the grooviest, chicest restaurant I have ever seen. The next time you are in New York you must visit!! The highlight of our trip (one of many) was a visit to the Jewish Museum and lunch at Russ and Daughters, the world famous café and New York City institution. Russ and Daughters began with an immigrant, Joel Russ, selling schmaltz and herring out of a push cart on the lower east side and 101 years later this delightful café can be enjoyed by everyone. Their motto is: “You will be part of the mishpacha (family) whether a regular or first time visitor) — and I truly was! Upstairs from the café the Jewish Museum offered fantastic exhibits of art and Jewish culture. From the sensory exhibit “Take Me, I’m Yours” to the nearly 30,000 works of Judaica and ceremonial objects that reflected and revealed a deep Jewish culture and identity. It was dynamic, humbling, and inspiring. It’s been a whirlwind so far. Tel Aviv — here we come!! Miss Episode One? Check it out here! After 13 years with the Jewish Federation, the unflappable Jodi Phares is embarking on her FIRST trip to Israel! Join in on the experience as she details her visit to our Western Galilee Partnership2Gether region and brings our overseas connections a little closer to home.  ]]>