Ram’s Cafe, a Vaad-certified kosher eatery in the Jewish Community Center, recently marked over two decades of service and community support.
Run entirely by volunteers, this establishment has evolved from its origins supporting the Hyman Brand Hebrew Academy (HBHA) to a community-driven entity.
Initially driven by grandparents with ties to HBHA, the cafe’s volunteer base has broadened. The number of volunteers, customers and funders without connections to HBHA have increased over the past two decades.
Around 50 volunteers form the backbone of the cafe, offering their services with diverse schedules. Some regularly contribute, while others pitch in when available. A recent volunteer appreciation lunch highlighted the collaborative effort that sustains this community cafe.
Ram’s Cafe’s menu offers a variety of kosher options sourced from major suppliers like Costco, Sysco and Sam’s Club, as well as contributions from local makers. Laura Katz’s salmon and Kaday Kyaw’s weekly sushi offerings add an in-house touch. Plans are brewing to bring more items in-house, including the popular chicken fingers.
Financial considerations are crucial, and the cafe relies on generated revenue for sustenance. Six volunteers work to keep the cafe operational: Mika Cohn, Karen Gerson, Janna Rosenthal, Kaley Schwartzbard, Jeff Udell and Sara Wajcman. Udell manages the cafe’s technology and oversees the scanning system and sales analytics. Rosenthal manages the budget to maintain financial stability. Funds generated both maintain the cafe and circulate back into the community through various initiatives at HBHA.
“It’s a labor of love,” Gerson said about the community-driven nature of the enterprise.
The cafe is actively working to raise awareness as the only local Vaad-certified kosher dining option besides Hen House.
A two-year plan is currently in action, with the past year focused on post-COVID recovery and potential changes to the menu. The team is analyzing performance and considering changes for the upcoming year, including expanding the “grab ‘n’ go” section and adding healthier menu options.
Ram’s Cafe’s recent introduction of a weekly sushi feature by Kaday Kyaw (an idea by Sara Wajcman) has garnered success. Kaday, a skilled sushi chef since 2006, now operates his own franchise, David & David Sushi, in addition to his work at Ram’s Cafe.
“I’m happy when I’m busy,” Kaday said. He said he is thankful for the Jewish community that gave him a job, and he maintains a commitment to kosher, safe and easy sushi for Jewish families. Weekly sushi orders are due by 6 p.m. on Wednesdays and available on Thursdays.
Looking forward, Ram’s Cafe calls for more volunteers to extend hours, and renovation plans are being explored. The vision involves kids volunteering as a family, potentially running the cafe after school.
Ram’s Cafe has an open-door policy and is located at the Jewish Community Campus (5801 W 115th St., Overland Park, KS 66211). Operating hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays; and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays.