Coney Island Bialys and Bagels claims to be the oldest bialy bakery in New York City. Founded in 1920, it's faced hard economic times and changing neighborhood demographics. Now, the shop has been rescued by two Pakistani Muslims — and they're keeping it kosher.
The store was founded by Morris Rosenzweig, who came from Bialystock, Poland, at the turn of the 20th century, where bialys originated. At one point the bakery did so much business, it was open 24 hours a day on the weekends. Later, the store was run by his son. And then by Steve Ross, Rosenzweig's grandson, now in his 50s.
Ross says many of the traditional customers moved to the suburbs. He tried to sell the business, but there were no buyers. When Ali heard about it, Ross asked him, so you want to take it over? Ali decided to try.
Shah, Ali and Ross say that not much has changed. They are using the same ingredients, from the same suppliers. "I gave them all the phone numbers," says Ross. "If you need this. this is who you are going to get it from, and they stayed with all that."
As for keeping the bakery kosher, Ali says, "Kosher and halal is very, very close, like brother and sister, maybe twins." Ali and Shah say the only thing remaining is official kosher supervision and certification. They are looking for a rabbi to bless and supervise.
Ross, Shah and Ali talk to each other at least several times a week. They all say business is picking up.And when people look askance at the idea of Muslims running a kosher Jewish bakery, Ross says, "They were reliable, I taught them everything, they always showed up, there was never any argument. I wish them well."
To read the full story and listen to the audio, please go to http://www.npr.org/2012/01/24/145539430/muslim-men-rescue-bagel-shop-and-keep-it-kosher
Source: NPR.org
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