‘Damage to the heart.’ Antisemitic vandalism strikes Israeli restaurant in Park Slope

Miriam restaurant owner Rafael Hasid says it's the second time his businesses were targeted this way – adding that it hurts him and the community.

Rob Flaks and Roberto Torres

Jan 27, 2025, 3:42 AM

Updated 10 hr ago

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Elected officials are condemning an act of antisemitic vandalism at an Israeli restaurant in Park Slope.
According to reports, the attack happened overnight at Miriam on 5th Avenue.
Miriam restaurant owner Rafael Hasid says it's the second time his businesses were targeted this way – adding that it hurts him and the community.
“It’s not a dollar value damage, it’s a damage to the heart," he said. “I don't understand why people have to act this way…If you are Jewish or Israeli, you take it personally."
Hasid said he was glad to see the community come out to support the restaurant Sunday, adding that he wants the attackers to know that they will not stop the businesses.
"You can have disagree on anything, but use your words," he said. "I would love to tell them that they are wrong. That Israeli cuisine is a mix of all the countries where Jews escaped and it is new and a twist on many cuisines. We serve everyone. We are not political. We are a restaurant," he said.
Residents say it’s the unique blend that has made the restaurant beloved in the area.
“I don't need much of an excuse to come here, but today I'd say I had even more of a reason to come, have a second lunch," said Park Slope Resident Doug Roth.
Council Member Shahana Hanif told News 12 that her office will be working with Hasid to help his business secure repair funding.
"When these attacks happen, they make everyone on edge. They make everyone unsafe here in Park Slope which is a very diverse district. This is unacceptable,” she said.
Hanif had drawn controversy in the past with a now-deleted social media post that called to "Globalize the Intifada," which she has since apologized for posting.
Gov. Kathy Hochul called the incident an "outrageous and despicable act of antisemitism."
New York City comptroller and mayoral candidate Brad Lander said, "Vandalizing their restaurant because they serve Israeli food and their owner is a Jewish-Israeli New Yorker is a clear example of when anti-Zionism becomes antisemitism."
The Anti-Defamation League of New York/New Jersey said on its X social media account that they "are grateful to the 78th Precinct for the quick response."