The Israeli-owned restaurant chain "Shouk," which specialized in kosher vegetarian cuisine, has shuttered its final location in the Washington, D.C. area, attributing the closure to a relentless boycott campaign led by pro-Palestinian activists.
The fast-casual chain, which had operated five branches over the last decade, was co-owned by American Jew Dennis Friedman and Israeli Ran Nussbacher. Its menu featured Middle Eastern vegetarian staples such as falafel, hummus, and lentil stews.
Owners Cite Harassment and Revenue Loss
In statements to media, the owners detailed the severe impact of continuous harassment and a sustained consumer boycott initiated shortly after the start of the conflict in Gaza.
"The ability to continue operating was no longer there," Friedman stated, lamenting the closure and the necessity of dismissing the remaining 30 employees. "I feel terrible because Shouk was not a political place; Shouk was a place where people came together. To be targeted and mislabeled and thrown into things that are not true, it's upsetting."
