Keep kosher? Keep reading. It can often be a challenge finding upscale restaurants that accommodate food restrictions. For those that keep kosher, this happens pretty often. A little over a year ago, La Cucina Di Nava opened in Teaneck and is one of the best gourmet “I’d eat here even if I didn't keep kosher” Italian restaurants New Jersey has seen.

The man behind this exciting concept is Chef Shalom, who has competed on "Chopped," (which he was hesitant to join due to a lack of kosher cuisine.) After speaking with producers, they agreed to provide him with kosher food ingredients, making him eligible to compete. Chef Shalom Yehudiel, of Teaneck, refuses to be unloyal to his beliefs, which has, in turn, allowed him to raise awareness and educate others about kosher cuisines.