Genesis Steakhouse and Wine Bar will officially close its doors on April 30 after 12 years in Houston. Restaurant owner Jason Goldstein shared that a revoked kosher certification triggered a rapid decline in business, making it impossible to continue operating under the current circumstances.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Goldstein, the restaurant once stood out as a welcoming space where Jewish and Orthodox Jewish patrons could enjoy a fine-dining experience adhering to kosher dietary laws. That changed in January when the Houston Kashruth Association revoked Genesis Steakhouse\u2019s kosher certification. Goldstein explained that his staff was unable to provide an invoice for tilapia found in the freezer, leading to the organization\u2019s decision.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Still, Goldstein believes the process was handled unfairly, and the loss of certification caused a significant decrease in Orthodox Jewish diners. \u201cYou build a place for a loyal community to gather, and then\u2014poof\u2014it\u2019s gone,\u201d he remarked. Have you ever seen a restaurant close so abruptly? It\u2019s a tough situation for everyone involved.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Genesis Steakhouse had prided itself on being one of the first kosher steakhouses in the Southwestern United States, catering to special occasions and everyday meals alike. The sudden closure leaves a void for those seeking diverse kosher options in Houston. Nevertheless, Goldstein remains hopeful and plans to continue his catering business while announcing a new concept in May.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Before we delve deeper, let\u2019s take a quick look at the recent timeline of events:<\/p>\n\n\n\n