The link between Jewish Americans and Chinese food is well documented but here’s a quick refresher.
North American Jews began their love affair with Chinese cuisine in the early 20th century when Ashkenazi and Chinese immigrants lived near each other in New York’s Lower East Side.
“It’s become urban folklore. But it has become a real phenomenon,” said Rabbi Joshua Eli Plaut, author of “A Kosher Christmas: ‘Tis the Season to be Jewish” in an interview with the Jewish Light in 2021.
And some of those Chinese-food-eating Jews kept kosher, which is why you can find kosher Chinese restaurants all around the world.
All except St. Louis. As of last check, the crack team at the Jewish Light has not found any local Chinese restaurants that are openly kosher. That said, you still can find kosher Chinese food locally. Kohn’s Kosher Deli & Meat Market has been serving kosher Chinese food since 2020.
“We still do a takeout every Wednesday and Friday for dinner,” said Chef Doug Tapp. “Our menus are on a six-week cycle, so there will always be something new to try.”