For years, Gabriel Boxer built a global following as the “Kosher Guru” through vibrant coverage of kosher restaurants, Jewish culture and travel. Yet as hostility toward Israel and Jews intensified online, his platform began to shift.
“Growing up as a proud religious Jew and Zionist in New York, I never imagined I would have to defend being Jewish — or defend Israel,” said Boxer, who arrived in Israel and was touring Judea and Samaria with American Friends of Judea and Samaria (AFJS).
Interview with Yigal Dilmoni, CEO and founder of American Friends of Judea and Samaria, and 'Kosher Guru' Gabriel Boxer
(Video: Lior Sharon)
“But a few years ago, almost overnight, everything changed. My content went from fun, food, lifestyle, travel, to explaining Judaism, defending Israel and educating people. It wasn’t planned. It became a mission.”
The transition, Boxer admitted, came at a cost.“I lost followers. People told me, ‘Go back to food,’” he said. “But today, education is more important than comfort.” As we traveled through historic sites referenced in the Torah — Shiloh, Hebron, Mount Ebal — Boxer described what he sees as the power of physical connection to heritage.
“People read about these places, but when they stand here, they understand this is real — our history, our roots,” he said. “That experience changes how people see Israel.” He spoke passionately about educational initiatives he is helping lead, including an upcoming university-level webinar series with Israeli public figures aimed at explaining Israel “beyond the headlines” and giving audiences tools to engage in informed conversation
Shaping global understanding
Organizers of the delegation emphasized the broader goal behind bringing influencers and public voices to the region: correcting misinformation, strengthening historical awareness and deepening global understanding of Israel’s reality, both past and present.
For Boxer, however, the story remains deeply personal. “This is about identity and truth,” he said. “When people experience Israel firsthand, narratives shift.”
Asked how Israel compares with global kosher capitals like New York, Miami or Paris, Boxer smiled. “Ten years ago, people thought kosher in Israel meant falafel and shawarma,” he said. “Today, Israel’s culinary scene is extraordinary.”
'Kosher Guru' Gabriel Boxer He described a dramatic transformation — world-class chefs, innovative kitchens and kosher dining that rivals top international standards. “The level of kosher cuisine in Israel today is world-class,” Boxer said. “From Tel Aviv to smaller cities, the quality is incredible. Israel is rocking the kosher food world.”
Boxer reflected on what lies ahead. “I hope to spend more time here, doing more for the Jewish people and for Israel,” he said. “Because our story deserves to be told.”