A kosher restaurant is one that follows strict Jewish dietary regulations. It operates under the supervision of a rabbi who ensures that Kashrut laws are followed correctly and completely. To comply with kosher dietary laws, these restaurants usually serve either dairy or meat products, never both.
Kashrut is a body of law that specifies which foods are permissible to eat and how they must be prepared when cooking kosher food. These regulations also specify how meat should be butchered and stored. These rules are even stricter during Jewish holidays. “Keep kosher” refers to Jews who adhere to these rules.
Certain foods, such as pork, are forbidden in kosher restaurants, and customers are not permitted to bring in outside food or drink. Before serving, all blood must be removed from the meat by either salting or soaking. Fruits and vegetables are always kosher, but they must be thoroughly inspected for any bugs or dirt before being used. The only exception is non-Jewish grape products, which are not allowed to be served at all. Grains, vegetables, fruits, eggs, and fish can be served with meat or dairy dishes, but not both at the same time.
Furthermore, all utensils used in a kosher restaurant must be exclusively for meat or dairy. Plates, bowls, pots, and pans, as well as cooking and food preparation surfaces, fall into this category. If any of these have been used to prepare non-kosher food, they can no longer be used to prepare kosher food. Separate meat and dairy kitchens may exist in restaurants that serve both meat and dairy. Those who do not have two refrigerators, sinks, stoves, sets of dishes, and flatware are required to have two refrigerators, sinks, stoves, sets of dishes, and flatware.
Official kosher certification is also required for kosher restaurants. This certification is also required for processed or packaged foods, which are usually marked with one or more kosher symbols. A rabbi performs this task, which includes inspecting food, observing how it should be prepared, and conducting periodic reinspections throughout the year to ensure that everything is up to code. It does not entail blessing the food or the establishment, contrary to popular belief.
Pizza is one of the most popular dishes served in kosher restaurants. There can’t be any meat on kosher pizza, so it’s just cheese and sauce. Kosher bagel shops and delis are also common. Chain restaurants that keep kosher can be found in larger cities or countries with a large Jewish population.