Cookbook author Ruthie Russo shares: I am an avid enthusiast of kibbutz dining halls and all they entail: the sense of community, the plastic trays, self-service, fresh produce, roast chicken, animated conversations, the intermingling of all age groups, and the satisfying clatter of empty dishes. A shared meal in one is an immersive experience rich in comfort, community, and solace for collective spirits.

A shared meal, Photo: Noam Preisman

While it may not be haute cuisine, the food is crafted with love and dedication. I’m always content with a plate of perfect rice, meatballs in sauce, meat bourekas, and a heap of fresh vegetables. The menu is more extensive, but the kibbutz classics are ever-present. There are many kibbutz dining rooms in Israel, some of which are excellent. Yad Mordechai undoubtedly stands among the finest. The resumption of activity is a profound act of defiance, a reminder that in the face of darkness, the human spirit insists on living and prevailing.