Imagine a place where delicious, kosher-certified comfort food meets expertly crafted beer. It sounds like a dream, right? Well, one Ohio establishment is making that dream a reality, and it's causing quite a buzz in the kosher food scene.
Tripping Kosher, the popular YouTube channel dedicated to exploring the world of kosher cuisine, recently featured Midnight Owl, a unique brewpub located in a Cleveland suburb. The episode, which can be viewed at https://collive.com/the-first-glatt-kosher-brew-pub-in-america/, showcases the transformation spearheaded by none other than pitmaster Mendel Segal, also known as “RaBBi-Q.”
Host Chaim Silverberg visits Midnight Owl to uncover what makes it so special. He highlights the unique blend of community atmosphere, elevated comfort food, and, of course, craft beer – all meticulously prepared and served under the strict kosher supervision of Cleveland Kosher. This means that every ingredient and preparation method adheres to the highest standards of kashrut, ensuring a truly kosher experience.
“Today I visit my friend Mendel Segal in Cleveland, Ohio where he is running a fully glatt kosher brewpub,” Silverberg exclaims in the episode. “It’s like a Jewish community center with comfort food and good beer. Something that will make Tucker Carlson very unhappy to see.” This playful jab hints at the novelty and perhaps even the unexpected nature of a glatt kosher brewpub.
The story behind Midnight Owl is just as compelling. Joel Warger and Rosemary Mudry, the original founders, envisioned the space as a community gathering place. To elevate their vision, in July 2025, they partnered with Mendel Segal to fully transition the brewery's kitchen and beer operations to meet kosher standards. This bold move positions Midnight Owl as a truly unique establishment, potentially the first of its kind in America offering such a comprehensive kosher experience.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some might argue about what truly constitutes the first glatt kosher brewpub, citing other establishments that may have offered kosher beer or limited kosher food options. The distinction lies in Midnight Owl's commitment to full kosher certification across both its kitchen and brewing operations, making it a truly comprehensive and groundbreaking venture.
Segal, an Orthodox rabbi and nationally recognized pitmaster, brings a wealth of culinary expertise to the table. Known for his award-winning Kansas City-style BBQ under the brand Mendel’s Kansas City BBQ, Segal's involvement adds a distinct flavor profile to the Midnight Owl menu. His collaboration injects excitement into the kosher food landscape, offering a local spot where patrons can savor smoked wings, expertly brewed craft beers, and classic bar food staples – all within the parameters of rabbinic oversight. Think of it as your favorite neighborhood pub, but with a kosher twist.
During the episode, Silverberg indulges in a variety of tempting dishes, including frickles (fried pickles – a must-try!), savory empanadas, classic hot dogs, and the ever-popular chicken wings. He notes that each dish is freshly prepared in-house and perfectly complements Midnight Owl’s diverse selection of craft beers. "It’s perfect beer food personified," he declares, praising both the quality of the food and the overall concept. The combination of high-quality kosher food and carefully crafted beer is clearly a winning formula.
And this is the part most people miss... It's not just about the food and beer; it's about the experience. Midnight Owl aims to create a welcoming and inclusive space where people can connect, relax, and enjoy good food and drinks in a kosher-friendly environment. This focus on community is what truly sets it apart.
For those interested in experiencing Midnight Owl firsthand, you can find them at:
Midnight Owl Brewing Company
20312 Chagrin Blvd, Shaker Heights, OH 44122
216-417-3334
midnightowlbrewingcompany.com
What do you think? Is Midnight Owl a game-changer for the kosher food scene? Does the combination of craft beer and kosher BBQ appeal to you? And what are your thoughts on the definition of the first glatt kosher brewpub? Share your opinions in the comments below! We'd love to hear your perspective.
