Berlin’s Iconic Kosher Restaurant “Bleibergs” Closes After 20 Years Amid Rising Antisemitism

After 20 years of operation, Berlin’s well-known kosher dairy restaurant “Bleibergs” has closed its doors. The restaurant, considered one of the city’s most prominent kosher establishments, announced that it was ceasing operations permanently due to the rise in antisemitism since the outbreak of the war in Israel.

In a heartfelt Facebook post, the restaurant’s owner wrote: “With a heavy heart, and following the tragic events of October 7, we must announce the permanent closure of Bleibergs Kosher Restaurant. We thank our customers for more than 20 years of trust in our service and wish security and prosperity for all.”

The restaurant shut down the day after the October 7 massacre and has not reopened since. Comments reacting to the closure reflect the growing difficulty Jewish-owned businesses abroad face in sustaining themselves.

One longtime customer wrote: “It’s heartbreaking what’s happening in Berlin. Antisemitism is everywhere, and the decision to close just shows that the anti-Israel movement is succeeding.”

Another commenter added: “Germany has learned nothing. What’s happening now reminds me of very dark times. We stand with all Jewish businesses!”

However, pro-Palestinian voices were quick to appear as well. On the restaurant’s Facebook page, one user wrote bluntly: “Israel is committing genocide. That’s why we boycott all Israeli businesses. Simple.”

Facing massive financial losses, Bleibergs has launched a crowdfunding campaign to recover part of its debt. “Along with the tremendous solidarity and support we received from thousands of people after announcing our closure,” the owners said, “we’re trying to raise at least part of our losses through a crowdfunding initiative, after suffering severe financial damage since the war began.”