In a poignant tribute to the victims of the October 7 massacre in Israel, a unique initiative has been launched to immortalize their memories through their favorite dishes.
The initiative, known as "A Place at the Table," is a heartfelt endeavor by the Culinary Institute of Israel, ASIF, to honor the 1,400 lives tragically lost to the brutal Hamas terrorist attack.
According to The New York Post, the Israel-based nonprofit unveiled this "memorial project" at a dinner event in New York, held in anticipation of the first anniversary of the horrifying incident. The event was graced by the family of Shani Gabay, one of the victims of the Nova music festival massacre. The evening's menu was curated by Michelin-starred chef Gabriel Kreuther, featuring a spicy fish stew, a dish that held a special place in Gabay's heart.
The 25-year-old Gabay had relished this dish during a Shabbat dinner with her family on October 6, just before she departed for the ill-fated music festival. "She is like the dish a spicy girl," her brother, Aviel Gabay, poignantly remarked. He further emphasized the unique nature of this tribute, stating, "You can look at her photos, and sing songs, but to experience her memory with food to eat and taste what she liked to taste is a unique way to bring her to the table."
Naama Shefi, the founder of ASIF, and Chico Menashe, the CEO, were also present at the dinner. Menashe underscored the therapeutic potential of this project, stating, "Families need to commemorate their loved ones memories and stories in order to move forward into the future." He further explained the project's aim to share the victims' stories and memories with both the Israeli public and a global audience through their favorite dishes.
ASIF, which translates to 'harvesting' in Hebrew, is also dispatching a video team to the families of the victims who wish to share the process of preparing these cherished meals. Menashe expressed his commitment to continue this project as long as the families desire, envisioning it evolving into a national commemorative cookbook with a lasting online presence.
The dinner was also attended by Patricia Heaton, the former star of "Everybody Loves Raymond," and her husband, actor/producer David Hunt, along with Kreuthers business partner Eben Dorros and his wife, Elizabeth. Heaton and Elizabeth Dorros, both non-Jewish, co-founded a non-profit organization, 07C, which advocates for Christians to combat antisemitism and support their Jewish friends amidst the ongoing conflict in the Middle East.
This initiative, "A Place at the Table," serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of the victims, their memories living on through their favorite dishes, offering a unique, tangible connection for their loved ones and the world to cherish.
Login