Arabic version: مالكة مقهى يهودي تصف خسارتها بسبب حريق مزعوم خلال التحقيق

A Jewish cafe owner has shared the emotional toll of losing her business to an alleged fire attack during the royal commission on antisemitism. Judith Lewis, who established Lewis’ Continental Kitchen in 1970 alongside her husband, described the incident as “devastating” for her and the local community.

According to ABC News, the cafe was a vital kosher takeaway option for the Jewish community, serving as a communal center for gatherings. The deli was destroyed in a fire in October 2024, leading to the arrest of a suspect charged with damage property by fire/explosion.

Lewis noted that the closure of the deli has significantly impacted the community, saying it has restricted their ability to enjoy meals as they would normally. “For us it’s devastating because we’re not seeing all our friends; the customers very much became friends,” she stated.

The inquiry was initiated following a tragic incident on December 14, 2025, where 15 individuals lost their lives at a Hanukkah celebration in Bondi. The royal commission has gathered numerous testimonies regarding experiences of antisemitism across various sectors, including schools and workplaces.

While the hearings have largely been peaceful, there was an incident where a man was removed from outside the tribunal for wearing clothing with an offensive slogan. He was later charged with behave in offensive manner in/near public place/school and cause prohibited Nazi symbol to be displayed in public place.