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Meet The Team

Our team knows that choosing the right caterer is an integral part of any successful event. At The Kosher Kitchen, our role is to help every client feel comfortable with their menu choices and theme. Our first goal however is to let each client know that their event is unique and we will do our best to exceed expectations every time.

Michael M. Medina, President & CEO
The Kosher Kitchen Catering Co.
michael@thekosherkitchen.com


Born and raised in Montreal, Canada from Moroccan-Jewish parents, Michael grew-up speaking Spanish at home and French in school. Coming from such a culturally diverse background prepared Michael for what was to come. Michael has traveled to several countries, including Israel, France, England, Spain, Morocco and parts of South America.

After moving to Virginia, he graduated from George Mason University with a degree in Marketing and Business Administration. Never satisfied with the status quo, Michael decided to get certified as an Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) and volunteer weekly as a member of a local rescue squad, here in Virginia. During his 5-year stint as an EMT, his career as a marketing professional expanded holding key roles mainly in growing technology-driven companies and finally becoming a marketing consultant to several small businesses in the area.

After marrying his wife Sasha, Michael became inspired by her Russian roots and her unique flare for cooking-up some very creative dishes. Michael never forgot his heritage and when thinking about a new venture, and an old passion, the savory and traditional Mediterranean cooking of his mother and grandmother came to mind instantly... and The Kosher Kitchen Catering Co. was born.

Michael is also the owner of DISTRIKT Bistro (www.distriktbistro.com). The new kosher mediterannean restaruant at the Washington, DC JCC.

 

Avi Harouch, Executive Chef
The Kosher Kitchen Catering Co.

Trained in nouvelle cuisine and coming from Moroccan and Israeli origins, Chef Avi has over 30 years of experience creating international savory dishes. With creative leadership rolls at high-end caterers and hotels in the DC metro area, Chef Avi has experience designing food ideas that are succulent, unique and visually pleasing. He has also owned and operated restaurants and food markets in California. Chef Avi lives in Washington, DC.

 

Merryl Shaffir, Account Manager
Maryland and Washington, DC
The Kosher Kitchen Catering Co.

Merryl was raised in Atlanta, Georgia and comes to us with a legacy of Southern hospitality and grace.  Before joining The Kosher Kitchen, she has worked in the kosher catering industry for eleven years.  Merryl has a lifelong career in sales and marketing and will handle every detail of your event with style and efficiency - giving it the attention it deserves. She currently resides in Silver Spring, MD with her husband.

 

Rochelle Goldberg, Account Manager
Northern Virginia and Washington, DC
The Kosher Kitchen Catering Co.

Hailing from Princeton, New Jersey, Rochelle moved to the DC area in 1992 to earn her Masters in Public Administration. Since then, Rochelle has made Northern Virginia her home. In 2001, Rochelle earned her Certificate in Event Management from the George Washington University and has worked extensively in event planning. Rochelle brings a special attention to detail, as well as an appreciation for great service that will help make your event a big success. Having devoted herself to her community, Rochelle prides herself in ensuring that Northern Virginians have a premium, full-service caterer to turn to when planning their momentous events. Rochelle currently lives in Fairfax with her husband and three children.