Opening a restaurant is a leap of faith. Most chefs dream about it, and those who actually do it, try to pick the ideal menu and location for success. Chef Jason Marcus is an exception to the rule. In 2010, he and his wife opened “Traif” a non-kosher establishment that served up tons of bacon and shellfish. While those foods may be popular in most areas, they most certainly are not wanted in the Williamsburg section of Brooklyn! This Orthodox enclave didn’t think the menu—or its creators–were anything to celebrate. (The fact that Marcus is also Jewish only added to the chaos.)

Inevitably, it became a huge controversy. Instead of causing a terrible crash and burn like most predicted, it attracted a lot of media attention, positive reviews, and a non-kosher clientele. 6 years later, the restaurant is still going strong and has even inspired a web series. 

Traif: An Unkosher Series is a lighthearted, funny show that features an excellent cast. I was invited to preview the first 3 episodes and found it most enjoyable. The main difference is that the location has been moved from NY to Los Angeles, but that doesn’t detract from the message. An added twist is that the fictional chef also hosts a late night cooking show which adds to the silliness.  Another unique aspect is that each episode focuses on a special dish or ingredient—some of which have been inspired by the real chef Jason—and the recipes will be on the series website for fans to recreate at home.

Traif’s public release will be on December 23rd. This is one that’s definitely worth watching, provided you have a sense of humor. (Yes, Kashrut is a serious issue, but it’s ok to feature another perspective.)

Is there a right—or wrong?—way to use a Menorah? This seemingly innocent topic turned into quite the lively discussion recently. Opinions were so strongly divided, it surprised me. Personally, it’s never even been a question. I was raised in a home that used the traditional method. We lit one candle per night, working up to eight total candles. Occasionally, we also used an electric bulb version, too, but that was always in addition to, rather than in place of.

Seems pretty simple, right? Well, not exactly. A friend mentioned that she lights all 8 candles the first night of Hanukkah, then reduces one at a time on the following nights.  Another lady said that every member of her family, kids included, has their own menorah and they light all of them together. A third person, who tends to be a wise guy, insisted we’re all wrong because only oil-burning menorahs truly fulfill the commandment, not just candles.

Rather confusing, indeed! According to Judaism.com, there is no general agreement and they advise asking a Rabbi if you’re in doubt. While I wouldn’t change the way I’ve always done it, I don’t have a problem with others doing something else. Each person should celebrate in their favorite way, no squabbling needed!

Readers are welcome to chime in. How many menorahs are needed, how they should be lit, etc.