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Steamers full of food are prepared at the Jing Fong restaurant in the Chinatown neighborhood of Manhattan in New York City
(New York, NY) — Why do Jews eat Chinese food on Christmas? The answer dates back to the late 19th and early 20th century in New York City. Back then, Chinese restaurants were historically one of the few businesses open on Christmas, offering a convenient meal for Jewish immigrants on the Lower East Side. The cuisine was appealing because many dishes didn’t mix meat and diary, which is a violation of kosher law.
In addition, unlike some Italian or German restaurants with religious symbols, Chinese eateries offered a culturally neutral space for Jewish patrons. The tradition ended up fostering community ties between the two groups.
Meantime, today modern Jewish families choose other options like Japanese, Thai or Indian food. However, Chinese food remains the hallmark of this tradition.
