Hundreds Rally to Support Philadelphia Jewish Restaurants Amidst Boycott

Hundreds of Philadelphians flocked to Jewish-owned restaurants on Sunday, November 8, 2026, to show solidarity and support amidst a planned pro-Palestinian boycott. The boycott, organized by a pro-Palestinian group, involved cyclists riding through the city with Palestinian flags and targeting six "Zionist establishments" in the Rittenhouse Square area, demanding they leave the city. The demonstration coincided with the eve of Kristallnacht, the 1938 Nazi attacks on Jewish businesses.

In response to the boycott, hundreds of counter-protesters gathered, forming long lines outside the targeted restaurants to patronize them and support their owners. Police estimated that around 500 people participated in total across both demonstrations, with approximately 300 in the boycott group and 200 in the counter-protest. Some counter-protesters carried Israeli flags.

The pro-Palestinian group stated they chose the businesses due to their owners' support for Israel. Jewish organizations condemned the boycott as antisemitic, highlighting the timing with the Kristallnacht anniversary. The owner of Huda, Yehuda Sichel, reported unprecedented crowds, stating he had never seen such a turnout before.

The counter-protest effectively drowned out the boycott, turning the intended campaign of isolation into a display of solidarity and a business boom for the restaurants. The boycott organizers reportedly ended their demonstration early due to safety concerns. Police intervened in altercations between the groups, making three arrests, including a teenager who assaulted officers. Two officers sustained minor injuries during one arrest. By evening, the area had calmed, and patrons continued to support the businesses.