New York City with Maya Jankelowitz

NEW YORK CITY WITH MAYA JANKELOWITZ

In the heart of New York City, Jack's Wife Freda has become more than just a restaurant—it is a reflection of community, warmth, and a shared culinary heritage. Founded by Maya and Dean Jankelowitz, the cafe's story is woven with threads of personal history and cultural inspiration. Serving Israeli-South African flavours within a space where food, conversation, and connection thrive in every corner. Since its opening in 2012, Jack's Wife Freda has grown to five locations, each embodying a sense of belonging that resonates with guests from all walks of life. At its core, the restaurant reflects the couple's vision of creating a space where everyone feels at home, a vibrant meeting ground where the energy of New York meets the warmth of family.

In this interview, Maya reflects on the inspiration behind Jack’s Wife Freda, the legacy of family, and her favorite moments in the city. From hosting tips to cherished NYC spots, Maya shares her love for New York’s vibrant cultural and culinary landscape, and how it continues to shape the heart of her restaurant.

Maya wears the Louise Dress

Jack’s Wife Freda has become an iconic space in New York. Could you share the originstory behind the cafe and how it reflects your personal journey?

The restaurants are known for their welcoming atmosphere, effortless ambiance, Israeli-South African inspired cuisine, reflecting both my husband Dean's and my own backgrounds as well as our shared NYC experiences in the hospitality industry. We opened our first location in 2012, and now have 5 locations. The deep sense of community is the premise of our journey. Jack's Wife Freda defines the quintessential New York restaurant where guests come from all walks of life and all over the world, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in our cozy banquets... personally that is the feeling that we know was seeded the day we opened, and keeps filling our hearts every day till today. I love the feeling of walking into the restaurant and seeing how all our wonderful guests are full of joy while eating and drinking and by nature are a part of the felt energy in the space. We always wanted our guests to feel like they are home.

How does Jack and Freda’s legacy inspire the atmosphere and food you create?

Dean’s grandmother Freda was a wonderful host, gracious and warm with family, friends, and strangers alike—and she always made sure there was lots of food. Freda was a Jewish South African grandma, and like her, nothing gives us more pleasure than happy and well-fed guests. Jack’s Wife Freda is renowned for greeting everyone like family, with staff and servers who have as much fun as our customers, and food that is as good to look at as it is delicious to eat.

"I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy."

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

New York is full of energy and inspiration. What are some of the small, everyday moments you cherish most about living in this city?

Running into someone you haven't seen for 10 or even 20 years on the subway and finding out we both still live in the city, seeing the sunset peaking through an unobstructed west side street, sitting on a park bench and listening to the birds.

Tell us about your favourite spots to visit in the city.

Washington Sq park, hiking in the north woods of Central Park with my kids, the movies, Blue Ribbon Sushi, Drinks at The Mulberry, and absolutely LOVE L'Avenue at Saks fifth avenue.

What continues to draw you to New York and what do you love most about being part of its culinary and cultural fabric?

I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy. I love that I can experience anything from a greasy diner style burger or a slice at Joe's to a Michelen Star dining experience and love them equally. The city's cultural landscape goes beyond food; there's theater, art, music, dance and so much more you can be a part of.

Maya wears the Ginger V Neck Dress.

Is there a go-to recipe that feels comforting and grounding to you after a busy day?

My moms chicken soup.

"A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements."

When hosting friends and family, what tips do you rely on to create a warm and welcoming environment around the table?

The tips for hosting will be similar at home or at the restaurant, making sure everyone feels comfortable and welcome is crucial for creating a positive and genuine experience. A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements. Being attentive, keeping your eye on your guests' needs, encouraging interaction, and above all simply being a gracious host which to me means being grateful and showing appreciation for their company! (this can happen at any place and any time!)

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

How would you describe your personal style and what colours or fabrics are you drawn to this season?

My personal style seems to be in transition. I especially loved wearing the Lee Mathews matching plaid shirt and shorts... I think that may be my new direction!  

Jacks Wife Freda
www.jackswidefreda.com
Photography Zoe Chait

NEW YORK CITY WITH MAYA JANKELOWITZ

In the heart of New York City, Jack's Wife Freda has become more than just a restaurant—it is a reflection of community, warmth, and a shared culinary heritage. Founded by Maya and Dean Jankelowitz, the cafe's story is woven with threads of personal history and cultural inspiration. Serving Israeli-South African flavours within a space where food, conversation, and connection thrive in every corner. Since its opening in 2012, Jack's Wife Freda has grown to five locations, each embodying a sense of belonging that resonates with guests from all walks of life. At its core, the restaurant reflects the couple's vision of creating a space where everyone feels at home, a vibrant meeting ground where the energy of New York meets the warmth of family.

In this interview, Maya reflects on the inspiration behind Jack’s Wife Freda, the legacy of family, and her favorite moments in the city. From hosting tips to cherished NYC spots, Maya shares her love for New York’s vibrant cultural and culinary landscape, and how it continues to shape the heart of her restaurant.

Maya wears the Louise Dress

Jack’s Wife Freda has become an iconic space in New York. Could you share the originstory behind the cafe and how it reflects your personal journey?

The restaurants are known for their welcoming atmosphere, effortless ambiance, Israeli-South African inspired cuisine, reflecting both my husband Dean's and my own backgrounds as well as our shared NYC experiences in the hospitality industry. We opened our first location in 2012, and now have 5 locations. The deep sense of community is the premise of our journey. Jack's Wife Freda defines the quintessential New York restaurant where guests come from all walks of life and all over the world, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in our cozy banquets... personally that is the feeling that we know was seeded the day we opened, and keeps filling our hearts every day till today. I love the feeling of walking into the restaurant and seeing how all our wonderful guests are full of joy while eating and drinking and by nature are a part of the felt energy in the space. We always wanted our guests to feel like they are home.

How does Jack and Freda’s legacy inspire the atmosphere and food you create?

Dean’s grandmother Freda was a wonderful host, gracious and warm with family, friends, and strangers alike—and she always made sure there was lots of food. Freda was a Jewish South African grandma, and like her, nothing gives us more pleasure than happy and well-fed guests. Jack’s Wife Freda is renowned for greeting everyone like family, with staff and servers who have as much fun as our customers, and food that is as good to look at as it is delicious to eat.

"I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy."

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

New York is full of energy and inspiration. What are some of the small, everyday moments you cherish most about living in this city?

Running into someone you haven't seen for 10 or even 20 years on the subway and finding out we both still live in the city, seeing the sunset peaking through an unobstructed west side street, sitting on a park bench and listening to the birds.

Tell us about your favourite spots to visit in the city.

Washington Sq park, hiking in the north woods of Central Park with my kids, the movies, Blue Ribbon Sushi, Drinks at The Mulberry, and absolutely LOVE L'Avenue at Saks fifth avenue.

What continues to draw you to New York and what do you love most about being part of its culinary and cultural fabric?

I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy. I love that I can experience anything from a greasy diner style burger or a slice at Joe's to a Michelen Star dining experience and love them equally. The city's cultural landscape goes beyond food; there's theater, art, music, dance and so much more you can be a part of.

Maya wears the Ginger V Neck Dress.

Is there a go-to recipe that feels comforting and grounding to you after a busy day?

My moms chicken soup.

"A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements."

When hosting friends and family, what tips do you rely on to create a warm and welcoming environment around the table?

The tips for hosting will be similar at home or at the restaurant, making sure everyone feels comfortable and welcome is crucial for creating a positive and genuine experience. A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements. Being attentive, keeping your eye on your guests' needs, encouraging interaction, and above all simply being a gracious host which to me means being grateful and showing appreciation for their company! (this can happen at any place and any time!)

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

How would you describe your personal style and what colours or fabrics are you drawn to this season?

My personal style seems to be in transition. I especially loved wearing the Lee Mathews matching plaid shirt and shorts... I think that may be my new direction!  

Jacks Wife Freda
www.jackswidefreda.com
Photography Zoe Chait

NEW YORK CITY WITH MAYA JANKELOWITZ

In the heart of New York City, Jack's Wife Freda has become more than just a restaurant—it is a reflection of community, warmth, and a shared culinary heritage. Founded by Maya and Dean Jankelowitz, the cafe's story is woven with threads of personal history and cultural inspiration. Serving Israeli-South African flavours within a space where food, conversation, and connection thrive in every corner. Since its opening in 2012, Jack's Wife Freda has grown to five locations, each embodying a sense of belonging that resonates with guests from all walks of life. At its core, the restaurant reflects the couple's vision of creating a space where everyone feels at home, a vibrant meeting ground where the energy of New York meets the warmth of family.

In this interview, Maya reflects on the inspiration behind Jack’s Wife Freda, the legacy of family, and her favorite moments in the city. From hosting tips to cherished NYC spots, Maya shares her love for New York’s vibrant cultural and culinary landscape, and how it continues to shape the heart of her restaurant.

Maya wears the Louise Dress

Jack’s Wife Freda has become an iconic space in New York. Could you share the originstory behind the cafe and how it reflects your personal journey?

The restaurants are known for their welcoming atmosphere, effortless ambiance, Israeli-South African inspired cuisine, reflecting both my husband Dean's and my own backgrounds as well as our shared NYC experiences in the hospitality industry. We opened our first location in 2012, and now have 5 locations. The deep sense of community is the premise of our journey. Jack's Wife Freda defines the quintessential New York restaurant where guests come from all walks of life and all over the world, sitting shoulder-to-shoulder in our cozy banquets... personally that is the feeling that we know was seeded the day we opened, and keeps filling our hearts every day till today. I love the feeling of walking into the restaurant and seeing how all our wonderful guests are full of joy while eating and drinking and by nature are a part of the felt energy in the space. We always wanted our guests to feel like they are home.

How does Jack and Freda’s legacy inspire the atmosphere and food you create?

Dean’s grandmother Freda was a wonderful host, gracious and warm with family, friends, and strangers alike—and she always made sure there was lots of food. Freda was a Jewish South African grandma, and like her, nothing gives us more pleasure than happy and well-fed guests. Jack’s Wife Freda is renowned for greeting everyone like family, with staff and servers who have as much fun as our customers, and food that is as good to look at as it is delicious to eat.

"I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy."

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

New York is full of energy and inspiration. What are some of the small, everyday moments you cherish most about living in this city?

Running into someone you haven't seen for 10 or even 20 years on the subway and finding out we both still live in the city, seeing the sunset peaking through an unobstructed west side street, sitting on a park bench and listening to the birds.

Tell us about your favourite spots to visit in the city.

Washington Sq park, hiking in the north woods of Central Park with my kids, the movies, Blue Ribbon Sushi, Drinks at The Mulberry, and absolutely LOVE L'Avenue at Saks fifth avenue.

What continues to draw you to New York and what do you love most about being part of its culinary and cultural fabric?

I often feel deeply entrenched in NYC’s vibrant food culture. The endless access to such a melting pot of cultures, its diverse influences and creative energy. I love that I can experience anything from a greasy diner style burger or a slice at Joe's to a Michelen Star dining experience and love them equally. The city's cultural landscape goes beyond food; there's theater, art, music, dance and so much more you can be a part of.

Maya wears the Ginger V Neck Dress.

Is there a go-to recipe that feels comforting and grounding to you after a busy day?

My moms chicken soup.

"A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements."

When hosting friends and family, what tips do you rely on to create a warm and welcoming environment around the table?

The tips for hosting will be similar at home or at the restaurant, making sure everyone feels comfortable and welcome is crucial for creating a positive and genuine experience. A warm welcome as guests arrive puts everyone at ease, creating a comfortable atmosphere - work with what you have; music, lights, temperature, seating arrangements. Being attentive, keeping your eye on your guests' needs, encouraging interaction, and above all simply being a gracious host which to me means being grateful and showing appreciation for their company! (this can happen at any place and any time!)

Maya wears the Esther Shirt and Short.

How would you describe your personal style and what colours or fabrics are you drawn to this season?

My personal style seems to be in transition. I especially loved wearing the Lee Mathews matching plaid shirt and shorts... I think that may be my new direction!  

Jacks Wife Freda
www.jackswidefreda.com
Photography Zoe Chait