From the Jewish Herald Voice...September 13, 2007
by Theodore Powers

If you imagine that water along Brays Bayou is really the Mediterranean, and the tables and chairs on the main floor of the JCC really are the outdoors facing the blue water, then you can be transformed to a little cafe in Israel.. When reality hits me, I realize that I am at the JCC, on Brays bayou and South Braeswood Blvd., but it is fun to dream a little. However, as in Tel-Aviv, my small round table was surrounded by beautiful works of art, and loads of people were walking by-some speaking Hebrew or Yiddish or English. Of course, I was at NOSHER  Cafe at the J, the longtime Kosher restaurant and coffee shop at the JCC. I may also add that NOSHER is the current oldest Kosher establishment in Houston! The Caf'e part serves a large variety of coffees, teas, smoothies, pastries, cookies, sugar-free items, bagels and cut-up fresh fruit. The wonderful full-bodied coffee taste and aroma come from the freshly roasted beans of Katz Coffee Company. Just order at the counter, find a seat and enjoy the food and scenery. Want a treat? Try Hazelnut Cappuccino or Caramel Mocha or a Macchiato. No need to go to that big corporate place.

Want something more substantial? No problem-just check the most colorful menu and the daily specials. The hot dishes, or cold salads, all KOSHER, will be brought right to your table. Shelley and Asher Rappaport are the owners of the NOSHER and they also run it. The place is under supervision of Houston Kashruth Association.

For breakfast (served all day) consider an omelet with lox and onions or the Patach Tikva omelet with mushrooms, onions, tomatoes and green peppers. Another good choice is Burritos, with sausage, eggs, tomatoes and onions. For lunch, late afternoon, dinner or to take out, there is a large menu that includes Israeli dishes like Sabra plate with Falafel, Hummus, Baba Ganoush, Turkey Salad, Tehina and Pita; and Burekas with potatoes, mushrooms or spinach served with hard boiled egg and Tehina. Other excellent choices are Poached Salmon on a bed of rice with honey sauce; and Chicken Schnitzel. There are burgers, grilled chicken, Matzah Ball soup, and lots more.

Nosher serves many kinds of sandwiches on rye, whole wheat, Kaiser roll, Ciabatta, bagel, pita or French baguet. For cold cuts try corned beef, pastrami, turkey or salami. Falafel in pita with hummus and tehina always makes me feel as though I am eating in Israel. Try what I call the kosher Ruben - grilled pastrami and sauerkraut on toasted bread. Another great dish is a hot dog wrapped in salami and smothered in sauerkraut. vegetarians will enjoy the sandwich with hummus, avocado, peppers, mushrooms, cucumbers and onions.

Nosher also makes fresh Challah every Friday, but you need to call to order it at least a day in advance. Look for the daily specials. A few weeks ago I lucked into Chinese Dinner. Nosher hired a Chinese Chef for the day, who turned out dishes like Sweet and Sour Chicken, Cashew Chicken, General Tso's Beef and Chicken Fried Rice. To my complete surprise the two dishes I ordered were authentic and delicious. If you are interested in more ethnic foods email Asher at nosher@jcchouston.org and you can get all the news with all the specials. With enough requests, he can make Italian days, Thai, Sushi, Greek, Mexican, and more Chinese Dinners.

Nosher is very kid-friendly. Youngsters can choose from hot dogs, hamburgers and nuggets, all with fries. There is a large selection of bottled juices, smoothies and blended beverages to satisfy and quench your child's thirst.

Founded in 1989, Nosher Catering has been providing the Jewish community with superb service and culinary delights prepared to meet the highest level of kashruth. Nosher can cater a full array of functions from Bar and Bat Mitzvahs, Weddings, organizational lunches, Birthday parties, Shabbat Dinners and weekends, daily meals to seniors, schools and camps. With full service catering, they will be there to make sure your party is a success.

Nosher and Cafe at the J is open Monday - Thursday 8:00 am - 8:00 pm, and Friday 8:00 am - 4:00 pm. If you register your email address they will keep you posted on specials and happenings, or call them at 713-729-3200 ext. 3232.

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