Ayat Restaurant is Opening in Astoria, Queens – Next to a Synogogue
Ayat Restaurant first opened on 3rd Avenue and 85th Street in Bay Ridge. The Palestinian street food cuisine was instantly a hit!
The owners, Ayat and Abdul Elenani opened several Ayat locations in New York City including: Industry City, Ditmas Park, The East Village and Staten Island. On their website, I noticed they even opened an Ayat in Pennsylvania. (Info)
Their newest location will be on Crescent Street in Astoria, Queens. Next door to the restaurant is the Sons of Israel Synagogue. They put this message on the synagogue’s door:
While many people might not think posting a message on a synagogue door would be the best way to communicate with a new neighbor, the message is one of peace.
Abdul Elenani is a straight-shooter – he will do things differently and work for peace. Hopefully, someone from the synagogue (or someone in the area) responds to the message.
Last December, the Ayat Restaurant in Ditmas Park received negative statements online, In January, the Elenani’s held a free Shabbat Dinner for 1,200 people. (Info) They said, “Let’s create a space where differences unite us, where conversations flow freely, and where bonds are forged.”
Congratulations to Ayat and Abdul on their new place and may their open communication forge peaceful relations in the community!
Hugs,
marlene
Topics: Uncategorized | No Comments »