KosherSquared - August 2025
Inside: AI Ranks Jewish Restaurant Diners, Mr. Broadway Set to Land in Brooklyn, New Mediterranean on UES, Jerusalem’s Hottest Hotels & Real Estate, Coca-Cola’s Sugar Switch, and more.
Welcome to this edition of the KosherSquared newsletter, where we explore the latest in kosher dining, from the intriguing AI analysis of restaurant diners’ “hotness” to exciting new openings like Libbi on the Upper East Side and Mr. Broadway’s Brooklyn debut. We also take you on a journey through Jerusalem’s top hotels and real estate developments, unpack the recent incident on a plane filled with French Jews, and share food industry updates like the return of cane sugar in Coca-Cola.
How Hot Are NYC’s Jewish Restaurant Diners? An AI-Powered Look
As per the JTA, a new website called LooksMapping, developed by 22-year-old Riley Walz, employs artificial intelligence to rate restaurants based on the attractiveness of diners who leave Google Maps reviews. Analyzing about 2.8 million reviews and hundreds of thousands of user photos, LooksMapping scores restaurants on a scale from 1 to 10 for “hotness,” alongside metrics for age and gender ratios. However, the ratings are based solely on those reviewers with visible photos, a limited and biased sample, and do not measure restaurant popularity or quality. Most NYC kosher restaurants fall into the mid-range, with UN Plaza Grill at 6.9/10 and Deli Kasbah Grill with a 3.9/10, but the “kosher-style” Katz’s Deli cooking in with an 8.1/10. The whole thing seems quite ridiculous as it is only focused on those who leave reviews, but AI makes all this and more (hopefully much more helpful) possible.
Mr. Broadway Opening Brooklyn Location in Midwood
The beloved Manhattan kosher eatery Mr. Broadway has made a significant Brooklyn expansion, with the slated opening of a new spot in Midwood. Our article from Manhattan to Midwood explores how the restaurant maintains its classic deli offerings while adapting to Brooklyn’s diverse kosher community. With an inviting atmosphere and a familiar, well-loved menu, Mr. Broadway aims to become a neighborhood staple.
The Best Jewish Magazines and Newspapers: Staying Connected
Keeping up with Jewish culture, news, and thought leadership is easier with some standout publications. Our guide to the best Jewish magazines and newspapers points readers to trusted outlets blending current events, essays, and family content across print and digital formats. Whether for casual reading or deep engagement, these selections help you stay connected to a vibrant cultural conversation.
Top Hotels in Jerusalem and a New Luxury Opening to Watch
Planning a trip to Jerusalem? We’ve rounded up the top 10 hotels that balance comfort, amenities, and ideal locations. Additionally, the upcoming debut of the Intercontinental Hotel in early 2026 promises a new level of luxury, catering to travelers seeking refined accommodations in this historic city.
What Really Happened When 50 Jewish Campers Were Removed from a Flight?
An incident involving the removal of 50 Jewish campers from a Vueling Airlines flight has sparked controversy. Our investigation into what really happened sheds light on the circumstances, responses from all parties involved, and broader implications for Jewish people traveling.
Emerging Real Estate Developments Transforming Jerusalem
Jerusalem’s landscape is evolving rapidly. Our coverage of exciting new real estate projects highlights initiatives reshaping neighborhoods, offering new housing options, and influencing community dynamics. These developments reflect Jerusalem’s growth as both a spiritual and modern urban center.
From Kosher for Passover to Cane Sugar in Coca-Cola
In food and beverage news, Coca-Cola has announced a broader rollout of its classic cane sugar recipe in the U.S., moving beyond the seasonal kosher-for-Passover editions. Our story, from Passover kosher edition to everyday classic, explores this nostalgic move and its reception among kosher consumers and beyond.
Libbi: New Kosher Mediterranean Dining on the Upper East Side
The Upper East Side welcomes Libbi, a kosher Mediterranean restaurant from the founder of Abaita. Libbi offers a refined menu blending heartfelt, personal dishes with sophisticated flavors and ambiance—a welcome addition for kosher diners looking for elevated Mediterranean cuisine in Manhattan.
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