Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year, is fast approaching on the calendar. This year, it takes place from Wednesday, October 2, until Friday, October 4. As one of the holiest celebrations in Judaism, Rosh Hashanah is a thanksgiving for and commemoration of the genesis of our world. New Orleans has plenty of spaces for Jewish people to worship and enjoy traditional Jewish foods and practices.
Here are 10 places to celebrate the Jewish New Year this year, whether you plan to worship, enjoy a good meal, learn about Jewish heritage, or do all three.
Best New Orleans Spots to Celebrate the Jewish New Year
1. Temple Sinai
6227 St. Charles Ave. (504) 861-3693
templesinainola.com
Having its roots all the way back to 1870, Temple Sinai on Saint Charles Avenue is not only the oldest Reform Jewish congregation in our state, it's the largest as well. They have regular services, Torah study, and special programming that can be found on their website.
They will have special services for all major Jewish holidays, so check their website and social media pages for updated information.
2. Touro Synagogue
4238 St. Charles Ave. (504) 895-4843
tourosynagogue.com
Next up is Touro Synagogue, also located on Saint Charles Avenue. Touro Synagogue prides itself on the diversity of its clergy and congregation, encompassing men and women of all orientations, faiths, races, and backgrounds.
They have an extensive events calendar on their website and will also be doing special programming for Rosh Hashanah.
3. Congregation Gates of Prayer
4000 W. Esplanade Ave., Metairie, (504) 885-2600
gatesofprayer.org
Gates of Prayer, another Reform Judaism congregation, is located on West Esplanade Avenue in Metairie. Following the trend of many religious houses of worship, information on their services and Sabbaths is available on their website.
Also available on the front page is a weekly updated schedule that details events that will be held in the near future.
4. Kosher Cajun NY Deli & Grocery
3519 Severn Ave., (504) 888-2010
koshercajun.com
Kosher Cajun is one of New Orleans' best delis, and everything is New York-style. They not only have countless New York classics, but they specialize in Kosher-certified foods.
With an entire page on their website dedicated to Rosh Hashanah this year, Kosher Cajun won't let you down. Place your individual plate or catering orders with them by September 25, and enjoy the delicious food they have to offer.
5. Chabad — Lubavitch of Louisiana
7037 Freret St., (504) 302-1830
chabadneworleans.com
Chabad is a series of Jewish houses of worship, and the New Orleans location has many different events in their calendar. They have candlelightings, services, and workshops in addition to specialized Rosh Hashanah celebrations.
Whether you are a local or a tourist in town for a few days—everyone is welcome at Chabad.
6. Shaya
4213 Magazine St., (504) 891-4213
shayarestaurant.com
One of New Orleans' most beloved restaurants, Shaya is a great place to enjoy a Kosher meal on the Jewish New Year. Recipient of a James Beard Award, Shaya is known for its delicious Israeli cuisine and specialty cocktails.
Consider ordering one of their different hummus dishes or a delicious entree including the chicken leg & thigh with aromatic rice. If you are looking to dress up for a Kosher-friendly meal—Shaya is the place to be!
7. Uptown JCC Outdoor Pool
5342 St. Charles Ave., (504) 897-0143
nojcc.org
To celebrate this Jewish New Year (5785), visit the Uptown Jewish Community Center's outdoor pool on September 29 from 12p.m. to 3 p.m. The state-of-the-art fitness center features summer camp sessions, early childhood education, and exercise and dance classes for adults.
To celebrate this year, the Uptown location will feature live music from jazz trio Nolatet, kids' bounce houses, games, an apple hunt, a Rosh Hashanah card-making activity, and a special cafe menu for guests.
8. Rimon
912 Broadway St., (504) 232-0758
rimontulanehillel.com
Located on Tulane University's campus, Rimon is a farm-to-table restaurant that prides itself on being completely kosher. Rimon provides a safe and comfortable space for Tulane's Jewish student body, and Chef Daniel Esses serves up cuisine to anyone in the greater New Orleans area.
The restaurant offers plenty of hummus, sandwiches, entree bowls, and much more for people to enjoy.
9. Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience
818 Howard Ave., (504) 384-2480
msje.org
The Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience is a private and nonprofit museum here in New Orleans that explores the ways Judaism has influenced the South, as well as how the South has influenced Judaism. They offer workshops, exhibitions, and collections in order to appreciate Judaism. They even have a gift shop that you can visit.
Spend Rosh Hashanah learning about the rich history of Judaism in New Orleans at the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience!
10. Stein's Market and Deli
2207 Magazine St., (504) 527-0771
steinsdeli.com
Stein's Market and Deli is a Jewish and Italian deli located in the Lower Garden District. They make both specialty and traditional sandwiches with no shortage of high-quality ingredients. Don't forget to try one of their daily specials Tuesday through Sunday.
Celebrate Rosh Hashanah with a tasty, kosher sandwich with some friends over at Stein's.
Top 10 Things to Do this Rosh Hashanah
New Orleans is rich with Jewish heritage and has many different places to worship, enjoy Jewish cuisine, or learn about the history of Judaism in the city. Jewish people have been in New Orleans since the French Colonial times! This Jewish New Year, take a trip to a synagogue in a historic building or get a sandwich at a traditional Jewish-style deli.
Rosh Hashanah is a time to celebrate the creation of the world and to spend time with loved ones. Whether you are looking for a place to participate in candle-lighting or if you want to take your family out for a delicious and kosher-friendly meal, New Orleans has so many different places for you to enjoy the holiday.
