The 38-year-old, who has Jewish roots and strong connections to the local synagogue and the Jewish Museum, is launching the new venue under the name Nash. The soft opening is scheduled for Thursday at 10 a.m., with doors simply opening to the public.
Nash is a Yiddish word meaning “snack”—a fitting name for Gitbud’s concept of a modest yet flavorful menu rooted in Levantine cuisine. Diners can expect homemade hummus in several varieties and dishes that draw on family recipes. “One of our signature dishes will be my grandmother’s chicken soup,” Gitbud says. “And, of course, my sister’s cakes. She’s already stopped by to start baking cheesecake and chocolate cake for the opening.”
Preserving the Familiar with a Personal Touch
The former Stadtcafé interior will remain largely unchanged. Gitbud plans only minimal redecorating and envisions the space as a potential venue for rotating art exhibitions. “There’s still some tidying to do—chairs are still stacked,” he admits. “It’s a bit improvised, but a full renovation wouldn’t have made sense with the current timeline.” The building is set for city-led renovations in two years, after which Gitbud plans to reapply for the lease.
For now, his focus is on creating a space that serves not just as a cultural meeting point for the Jewish community, but as an open and inclusive place for everyone. “Especially here, at this symbolic location, it’s important to highlight Jewish culture and life in a welcoming environment.”
From Film to Food Service
Gitbud’s path to hospitality was anything but linear. A former cameraman and coin dealer, he has been working in gastronomy since 2019 and says the profession suits him. “I always knew I couldn’t do just one thing. Running a restaurant brings constant challenges—missing deliveries, broken dishwashers—you always need to adapt.”
Room for Many, Space for All
With 85 seats inside, 60 more in the courtyard, and another 60 on Jakobsplatz, Nash offers a similar capacity to its predecessor. The construction crane that once loomed in the courtyard has been removed, clearing the space for guests. Gitbud is still looking for additional staff to support the opening, but his vision for the café is already taking shape—a fresh culinary start that’s both grounded in tradition and open to all.
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