Sydney’s Jewish community comes together over food and memory

Hundreds of people gathered at the fourth annual Jewish Food Festival in Sydney’s east on Sunday for a day of food, music and community connections.

Organised by Shalom Collective in a new secure, all-weather venue, the festival featured about 40 kosher food vendors showcasing Jewish cuisine from around the world, including falafel, sabich, brisket, babka and hamantaschen. Several vendors offered kosher food for the first time.

Rabbi Alon Meltzer, Director of Programs at Shalom Collective, said the moment called for more than celebration.

“Now more than ever, there is a need to come together and strengthen our Jewish pride and identity,” he said.

A pickle fountain greeted guests at the entrance, leading them into a spacious indoor area brimming with food stalls and other offerings.

A central feature of the event was a tribute to the 15 victims of the Bondi attack, with each stall serving dishes inspired by their favourite meals.

These included Hungarian cabbage rolls, a Soviet wafer cake and traditional plov. Shoshana Eisner of Operation Golda coordinated the tribute, raising funds for the Bondi Beach Terror Attack Emergency Relief Fund.

Organisers said the tribute reflected a core aspect of Jewish life, where memory and mourning sit alongside celebration and continuity.

Cooking demonstrations were held throughout the day, including a session by the Monday Morning Cooking Club marking the launch of their new cookbook. Additional sessions were led by chefs Michael Rantissi and Ido Zarmi.

Small group Shabbat table conversations, hosted by Tami Sussman, Andre and Carly Jaku, and Alex Ryvchin, drew strong interest.

An interactive children’s installation exploring the story of creation and Shabbat traditions also featured alongside live music and a communal picnic area.

“When we create space to come together, openly, safely and with intention, people meet that moment,” Rabbi Meltzer said.