In an inspiring tribute to the cherished memories of the Oct. 7 massacre victims in Israel, a novel initiative strives to celebrate their lives through the universal language of food. The Culinary Institute of Israel, known as ASIF, has launched an evocative endeavor titled “A Place at the Table.” This heartwarming project is designed as an online sanctuary where the favorite dishes of the 1,400 lives lost to Hamas terrorists are shared, each recipe a poignant echo of a life taken too soon.
As the first anniversary of this tragic day approached, ASIF unveiled this memorial project during a poignant dinner in New York, which was attended by the bereaved family of Shani Gabay—a vibrant soul tragically lost at the Nova music festival. The evening was made even more memorable with Michelin-starred chef Gabriel Kreuther preparing a spicy fish stew, Shani’s preferred dish, symbolizing the essence of her spirited personality.
Shani’s brother, Aviel Gabay, poignantly remarked, “She is like the dish—a spicy girl,” underscoring how food can serve as a powerful conduit to remember and celebrate the unique spirit of those no longer with us. Through savoring their beloved dishes, families and friends can foster a tangible connection, transforming grief into moments of shared joy and commemoration.
ASIF’s visionary approach extends beyond this single event. It aims to compile a “national commemorative cookbook,” inviting families to contribute recipes and stories that capture the essence of their lost loved ones. This compilation is not only about preserving memories but also about healing, moving forward, and sharing these stories with a global community.
The initiative, according to ASIF CEO Chico Menashe, is transformative, bridging personal loss with collective memory and creating a perpetual legacy that transcends geographical and temporal boundaries. “A Place at the Table” stands as a testament to the power of culinary heritage in honoring the past, nurturing resilience, and building connections across cultures in the face of unimaginable tragedy.
Among the attendees lending their support was actress Patricia Heaton, co-founder of the non-profit 07C, which promotes solidarity against anti-Semitism and champions interfaith camaraderie. Heaton’s presence, along with that of other notable guests, highlighted the widespread impact and significance of this initiative, not only as a tribute to the victims but also as a beacon of hope and unity against the darkness of hate and division.
In this deeply moving endeavor, food becomes a symbol of love, remembrance, and the indomitable human spirit, ensuring that the stories of those lost are forever woven into the fabric of collective memory and shared around a table that, though marked by absence, is abundant in love and remembrance.
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