Full Breakdown
Closure of Tsion Cafe: A Response to Anti-Zionist Harassment
2/13/2026, 5:25:43 AM
Background & Context: The Rise of Antisemitism in NYC
Tsion Cafe, New York City’s only Ethiopian-Israeli restaurant, has closed its doors for regular dining due to a significant increase in harassment linked to the ongoing Gaza conflict. Owner Beejhy Barhany, who opened the restaurant in Harlem in 2014, reported that hostility intensified following Hamas' attack on Israel on October 7, 2023. This surge in antisemitic sentiment has prompted calls for investigations into civil rights violations by local authorities.
Core Event: Harassment and Closure
Barhany described a series of harassing incidents, including threatening phone calls and public confrontations. One caller reportedly stated, “You dirty Jew. We should erase you from the map.” Additionally, groups of young individuals have been seen discouraging patrons from dining at Tsion Cafe, labeling it as a place owned by "Zionists." The harassment escalated after Barhany transitioned the restaurant to a fully vegan and kosher menu in February 2024, a decision intended to celebrate her Jewish identity.
Official Statements & Responses
In response to the closure, the Jewish Community Relations Council (JCRC) filed complaints with Attorney General Letitia James and Mayor Zohran Mamdani, emphasizing that no business owner should face intimidation due to their identity. JCRC CEO Mark Treyger condemned the harassment as a clear manifestation of antisemitism, stating, “Harassing a Jewish small business owner because she is Israeli and Jewish... is antisemitism, plain and simple.” City Comptroller Mark Levine echoed this sentiment, labeling the situation as “blatant bigotry.”
New Direction: Cultural Immersion Events
Following the closure for regular dining, Barhany announced a shift in Tsion Cafe's operations towards hosting culturally immersive events. This new model, named "The Gursha Experience," aims to educate attendees about Ethiopian Jewish culture through curated events that include traditional Ethiopian food and storytelling. Barhany expressed hope that this approach would allow her to continue sharing her heritage while navigating the challenges posed by the current climate.
Criticism & Opposition: Broader Implications
The closure of Tsion Cafe has sparked discussions about the broader implications of rising antisemitism in New York City. Critics argue that the harassment faced by Barhany reflects a troubling trend of intolerance towards Jewish individuals and businesses. Other Jewish establishments, such as Breads Bakery, have also reported similar harassment, indicating a wider issue affecting the community.
What's Next: Future of Tsion Cafe
Barhany envisions expanding Tsion Cafe beyond the Ethiopian Jewish experience to include diverse Jewish cultural narratives. She aims to collaborate with chefs from various Jewish backgrounds to enrich the culinary landscape in Harlem. Despite the challenges ahead, Barhany remains committed to her identity and mission, stating, “I am true to myself.”
Verbatim Quotes
- “I answered the phone once at the restaurant and the caller said, ‘You dirty Jew. We should erase you from the map,'” — Beejhy Barhany, Owner of Tsion Cafe
- “No small business owner should ever have to fear closing their doors because of their identity.” — Mark Treyger, JCRC CEO
- “This is blatant bigotry. I am deeply disturbed by this and you should be too.” — Mark Levine, City Comptroller
- “You will come and be immersed in the culture,” — Beejhy Barhany, describing The Gursha Experience
The closure of Tsion Cafe serves as a poignant reminder of the challenges faced by minority-owned businesses amid rising tensions and highlights the need for community support and understanding.
