Chef Eyal Shani’s Miznon Debuts at US Open Amid Global Anti-Semitic Challenges

Chef Eyal Shani is bringing his renowned Miznon street food brand to the prestigious US Open tennis tournament for the first time. Starting August 23, during the tournament’s fan week, Miznon will operate at the USTA Billie Jean King National Tennis Center, serving Shani’s signature Middle Eastern dishes such as green beans in a bag and popular pita sandwiches like roast beef and chicken schnitzel. Shani emphasized the unifying power of food, saying, "When thousands of strangers gather, united by excitement, food becomes another way to connect, that’s the heart of Miznon."

Shani, known for his successful New York restaurants including Shmoneh, Port Said, and The Salon, joins other top local culinary names at the US Open. This international achievement comes amid a series of anti-Semitic incidents targeting his restaurants worldwide. In April 2026, his Berlin restaurant "Gila and Nancy," co-owned with Shahar Segal, closed after enduring a pro-Palestinian BDS boycott campaign, direct threats, violent protests, and hate graffiti. The restaurant had opened in September 2025 under heavy police protection but ultimately shut down due to safety concerns for staff.

Additionally, in July 2025, Shani’s Miznon branch in downtown Melbourne was attacked by about 20 masked pro-Palestinian protesters who threw chairs, tables, food, and glassware while shouting "Death to the IDF." Police had to intervene extensively to disperse the rioters and block the street. These incidents are part of a broader wave of harassment against Israeli-owned businesses and restaurants globally. Despite these challenges, Shani remains committed to sharing his culinary vision on the international stage.