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

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

This international milestone comes amid significant challenges faced by Shani’s culinary empire worldwide. In April 2026, his Berlin restaurant "Gila and Nancy," co-owned with Shahar Segal, was forced to close after enduring a tense period marked by pro-Palestinian and BDS campaigns, direct threats, violent protests, and anti-Semitic graffiti. The restaurant had opened in September 2025 after multiple delays due to violent incidents and operated under heavy police security. The sustained pressure and threats ultimately led to its closure.

Additionally, in July 2025, Shani’s Miznon branch in downtown Melbourne, Australia, was attacked by about 20 masked pro-Palestinian protesters following a nearby demonstration. The group threw chairs, tables, food, and glassware while shouting "Death to the IDF" at shocked diners. Police had to intervene extensively to disperse the rioters and block the street. This incident was part of a broader wave of harassment targeting Israeli-owned businesses and restaurants worldwide.

Despite these difficulties, Shani, who also owns popular New York restaurants like Shmone, Port Said, and The Salon, was selected to collaborate with other leading local culinary figures at the US Open. He described the tournament as more than just tennis, calling it "a celebration of people, movement, and life."