Cleveland Chefs Reflect on Passover Traditions

Local culinary experts share the significance and favorite dishes of the Jewish holiday.

Mar. 30, 2026 at 5:46pm

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A vibrant, high-contrast silkscreen print of a traditional Passover dish like matzo ball soup, repeated in a grid pattern with bold, unnatural colors and heavy black outlines, conceptually representing the fusion of modern culinary innovation and ancient cultural traditions.Cleveland's chefs are putting creative spins on classic Passover dishes to honor tradition and connect with the local community.Cleveland Today

As the Jewish community in Cleveland, Ohio prepares to celebrate Passover, local chefs are reflecting on the meaning and traditions of this important holiday. Several prominent culinary figures in the city have shared their perspectives on the cultural significance of Passover, as well as some of their favorite traditional dishes that will be featured on menus across the region.

Why it matters

Passover is a crucial time for the Jewish community, commemorating the Israelites' exodus from slavery in ancient Egypt. By highlighting the insights of Cleveland's chefs, this story provides a unique window into how this holiday is celebrated and passed down through food and culinary traditions within a specific local context.

The details

The chefs interviewed for this story come from a variety of backgrounds and restaurant concepts, but they all share a deep appreciation for the history and rituals of Passover. Many plan to feature classic Passover dishes like matzo ball soup, brisket, and charoset on their menus, while also putting their own creative spins on traditional recipes.

  • Passover begins on the evening of April 5, 2026 and lasts for 8 days.

The players

Michael Symon

An acclaimed Cleveland-based chef and restaurateur known for his modern take on classic American cuisine.

Jonathon Sawyer

A James Beard Award-winning chef who owns several restaurants in Cleveland focused on locally-sourced, seasonal ingredients.

Karen Small

The owner and executive chef of The Flying Fig, a farm-to-table restaurant in Cleveland's Ohio City neighborhood.

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What they’re saying

“Passover is such an important time for my family and our community. The rituals and foods we share connect us to our history in a really profound way.”

— Michael Symon, Chef and Restaurateur

“I love being able to put my own spin on classic Passover dishes while still honoring the traditions. It's all about balancing innovation and respect for the past.”

— Jonathon Sawyer, Chef and Restaurateur

“Passover is a time of renewal and reflection. The food we prepare is a way to connect with our heritage and share it with our community.”

— Karen Small, Chef and Restaurateur

The takeaway

Cleveland's chefs are embracing the cultural significance of Passover while also finding creative ways to put their own modern spin on traditional dishes, reflecting the city's vibrant culinary scene and diverse Jewish community.