HOUSTON – It’s time to eat, celebrate and wish everyone “Shana Tova!” Or, happy new year.
The Jewish holiday of Rosh Hashanah kicks off tonight at sundown, signifying the start of the Jewish new year.
Need some traditional foods your whole family will love? New York Bagels & Coffee Shop is a must right here in Houston.
With two locations, (the original on Hillcroft and the second on Belaire) The Bagel Shop was built on generations of tradition, family, and community. And for decades now, the H-Town staple has proudly served generations of Houstonians with classic bagels, deli favorites, and the familiar hospitality that keeps guests coming back.
Here are some of the traditional things that help us ring in the new year:
• Shofar – The shofar is a traditional Jewish instrument made from a ram’s horn. It is blown loudly during Rosh Hashanah as a call to wake people up spiritually, encouraging reflection, repentance and a fresh start for the new year.
• Pomegranates – Pomegranates symbolize abundance, good deeds and blessings for the year ahead. Their many seeds are traditionally associated with the idea of having many mitzvot (good deeds) in the coming year. They’re also enjoyed because they’re a beautiful, seasonal fruit and fit right into the holiday’s theme of wishing for a sweet and fruitful new year.
• Round Challah – Round challah is a traditional bread served during Rosh Hashanah. Unlike the braided challah often eaten throughout the year, the round shape is said to represent the cycle of the year and the continuity of life. It’s also associated with the hope for a year filled with wholeness, blessings and abundance.
• Honey Cake – Honey cake is a traditional sweet treat often enjoyed during Rosh Hashanah. Because honey represents sweetness, the cake symbolizes the hope for a sweet, happy and prosperous new year. It’s often made with warm spices like cinnamon and cloves, giving it that cozy, festive fall flavor.
• Brisket – Brisket is a classic Jewish comfort food that is often served at Rosh Hashanah and other holiday gatherings. It’s a popular choice for the holiday because it’s hearty, comforting and perfect for sharing with family around the table and often served as the centerpiece of a family Rosh Hashanah meal.
Watch as Co-owner of the New York Deli and Bagel Shop Bakery Riana Sherman helped Lauren and Danielle get ready for Rosh Hashanah with some classic holiday favorites.
Copyright 2026 by KPRC Click2Houston – All rights reserved.