Beyond the Braid: Challah, Culture, and Identity

Beyond the Braid: Challah, Culture, and Identity is a conversation about Jewish identity, memory, art, and cultural evolution viewed through the familiar loaf of challah. As part of FOODISH—ANU Museum’s global Challahfest—FOODISH founder and CEO Merav Oren moderates a panel with James Beard Award-winning chef and author Pati Jinich and chef and educator Alexander “Zoonder” Lachnish, who is known for modern gastronomy techniques.

Before the discussion, guests can enjoy drinks and decorate their own challah lollipop from Baked by Yael. The first 100 ticketholders will also receive a complimentary challah pop.

When: November 8, 2026.

Showtimes: Doors open at 5:00 p.m. Sips & Sweets begins at 5:00 p.m., followed by the talk at 6:30 p.m. ET.

Program: Merav Oren leads a discussion about how challah can tell stories about who we are, where we come from, and how Jewish culture continues to evolve.

Lineup: Merav Oren moderates, with Pati Jinich and Alexander “Zoonder” Lachnish as panelists. Jinich is a James Beard Award-winning chef and the author of *Foods of La Frontera*. Lachnish is a chef and educator known for modern gastronomy techniques.

Activities: Sips & Sweets includes drinks and an opportunity to decorate a challah lollipop from Baked by Yael.

Tickets: Admission is $12 for the panel or $22 for the panel plus reception. Online purchases incur additional fees.

Complimentary item: The first 100 ticketholders receive a complimentary challah pop.

Venue: Sixth & I Historic Synagogue, 600 I Street, NW, Washington, DC 20001.

Access note: No one will be turned away from the program because of an inability to pay. For more information, contact Kira Doar.