Chabad Houses Worldwide

goKosher's global directory of Chabad Houses helps Jewish travelers find warm hospitality, a Shabbat meal, a minyan, kosher food and a friendly face wherever they go. The Chabad-Lubavitch network today runs more than 3,500 institutions in over 100 countries, from Manhattan's Upper East Side to Kathmandu, from Buenos Aires to Bangkok, from Berlin to Cape Town. Whether you're a first-time visitor to a new city, a business traveler stuck away for Shabbat, a backpacker crossing continents or a family on holiday, this directory helps you find the nearest Chabad House and the services it offers.

What is a Chabad House?

A Chabad House (Beit Chabad) is a Jewish community and outreach center staffed by an emissary couple (shluchim) sent by the Chabad-Lubavitch movement. Each Chabad House is autonomous, but they share a common mission: to welcome every Jew regardless of background, provide kosher food, offer daily and Shabbat minyanim, host holiday programming, run Jewish education for children and adults, and serve as a home away from home for travelers. The rabbi and rebbetzin who run a Chabad House typically move to the location for the long term — often for life — and their homes literally double as the community's synagogue, dining hall and guest wing. That personal, family-scale hospitality is what makes Chabad Houses one of the most powerful assets in the Jewish travel world.

Services you'll find at most Chabad Houses

Chabad Houses vary in size — some are a rabbi's living room, others are full campuses with schools, mikvahs and restaurants — but the core services are consistent. Expect Shabbat meals (Friday night and often Shabbat lunch), typically free or on a suggested-donation basis for travelers; a shul with minyanim, especially on Shabbat and often daily where numbers allow; kosher food access, whether from an on-site kitchen, a takeaway operation or a directory of local trusted options; a mikvah (in most established locations); holiday programming for Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim, Pesach and Shavuot, usually with full meals and services included; Jewish education — shiurim, one-on-one learning, women's classes, and often a preschool or day school; and lifecycle support — brit milah arrangements, bar/bat mitzvah preparation, weddings, funerals and shivah where needed. Many Chabad Houses also lay tefillin with visitors, arrange kosher meals delivered to hospitals or hotels, and help with any Jewish emergency that comes their way.

Traveling & Shabbat away: how Chabad hosts travelers

If you're going to be somewhere new for Shabbat, contacting the local Chabad in advance is the single best move you can make. Most emissary couples will host you for meals, help you find walking-distance accommodation, arrange a mikvah visit and connect you with the local community. Many Chabad Houses maintain simple guest apartments or partner with nearby kosher hotels and rentals. In cities without Jewish infrastructure — think Boise, Ho Chi Minh City, Reykjavik, Kigali, Ushuaia — the Chabad House may literally be the only shul, kosher kitchen and Jewish community for hundreds of miles. Even in cities with rich Jewish life, Chabad often runs the most traveler-friendly Shabbat program, because so much of the movement's mission is oriented around the Jew who doesn't yet have a community of their own.

Finding a Chabad near you

Use the search bar at the top of this page to look up any city or country and see the nearest Chabad House. Each listing includes the rabbi and rebbetzin's names, the street address, phone, email and website where available, so you can reach out directly — and Chabad emissaries are famously responsive. If the destination isn't in the directory yet, please let us know so we can add it. Popular Chabad travel destinations covered by goKosher include New York (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Queens), Miami, Los Angeles, Chicago, Houston, Toronto, Montreal, London, Manchester, Paris, Marseille, Berlin, Vienna, Prague, Rome, Milan, Athens, Barcelona, Lisbon, Buenos Aires, Rio de Janeiro, São Paulo, Mexico City, Cancun, Bangkok, Ko Samui, Kathmandu, Mumbai, Tokyo, Hong Kong, Singapore, Sydney, Melbourne, Cape Town, Johannesburg, Marrakech, Tel Aviv, Jerusalem, Tzfat and many more.

Chabad on chagim: High Holidays, Pesach, Chanukah

On the chagim, Chabad Houses are often the beating heart of Jewish life in their city. For Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur, most run full machzor services with sermons in the local language, meals between services, and a shofar operation that goes out to hospitals, care homes and Jews who can't make it to shul. On Sukkot, Chabad Houses put up public sukkahs and often run "mitzvah tank" operations shaking lulav and etrog with Jews on the street. Chanukah brings public menorah lightings, from Trafalgar Square to the Eiffel Tower to the White House lawn. On Pesach, many Chabad Houses run community Sedarim open to anyone who calls — some of the largest Sedarim in the world, in Kathmandu and Bangkok, host over a thousand travelers each year. For Purim, expect megillah readings and community meals; for Shavuot, all-night learning and a dairy Kiddush.

Related resources

Chabad Houses often work in coordination with the local shul network, kosher restaurants, kosher hotels, kosher-friendly vacation rentals and community Shabbat times — check those resources on goKosher to build a complete kosher itinerary. If you run a Chabad House and your details are missing or out of date, add or update your listing for free so travelers can find you.

Travel Guide

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A Global Lifeline: Understanding the Role of Chabad for the Jewish Traveler

For millions of Jewish travelers, business professionals, students, and expatriates, the global network of Chabad-Lubavitch houses serves as an essential lifeline. Part community center, part synagogue, part home-away-from-home, these institutions provide critical infrastructure for Jewish life in virtually every corner of the globe. From the bustling streets of Bangkok to the remote mountains of Peru, the iconic "Chabad House" offers a predictable, welcoming environment where one can find a Shabbat meal, daily prayer services (minyanim), kosher food, and a connection to a local Jewish community, no matter how small.

Founded on the principle of Ahavat Yisrael (love for one's fellow Jew), Chabad emissaries (shluchim and shluchot) dedicate their lives to establishing a Jewish presence in their assigned city. This guide, updated for June 2026, offers an authoritative overview of the Chabad network from a traveler's perspective, covering the kashrut landscape, regional variations, logistical considerations, and what to expect when you walk through their doors.

The Global Kashrut Landscape at Chabad

Perhaps the most critical service Chabad offers to travelers is access to kosher food. However, the kashrut standards and supervision models can vary significantly by region and even from one Chabad house to another. Understanding these nuances is crucial for the kosher-observant traveler.

Kashrut Supervision: A Spectrum of Standards

At one end of the spectrum, many Chabad houses, particularly in North America and Western Europe, operate restaurants or catering facilities under the formal supervision of established, mainstream kashrut agencies. It is common to see certifications from the OU (Orthodox Union), OK, Kof-K, CRC (Chicago Rabbinical Council), Beth Din of Paris, KLBD (London Beth Din), or Manchester Beth Din. In these cases, travelers can generally rely on the same standards they would expect from any other certified establishment.

At the other end, especially in remote destinations across Asia, South America, or Africa, the Chabad house may be the *only* source of kosher food in the entire country. In these situations, the local Chabad emissary (shliach) is often the de facto kosher supervisor. They are responsible for sourcing all ingredients, kashering kitchens, and overseeing food preparation. This is often referred to as "Hechsher Shliach" (supervision of the emissary). While these shluchim are deeply committed to halacha (Jewish law), the standards may not always align with the specific stringencies (chumrot) a traveler may be accustomed to, particularly regarding chalav yisrael (dairy products supervised from milking) or bishul yisrael (food cooked by a Jew).

What to Ask About Kashrut

It is always appropriate and recommended to inquire respectfully about kashrut standards before booking a meal or purchasing food. Key questions to ask include:

Is the meat glatt/chalak beit yosef?
Are dairy products chalav yisrael?
Is the cooking bishul yisrael?
Is there a formal external hashgacha (supervision), or is it supervised by the shliach?
Where are the meat and other key ingredients sourced from?

A responsible shliach will be transparent and happy to provide this information, understanding that travelers have different observance levels. In Israel, Chabad-run establishments are typically certified by a recognized local Rabbanut or a mehadrin (higher standard) body like Badatz.

A Regional Guide to Chabad for Travelers

The function and feel of a Chabad house can differ dramatically depending on the local context. What a traveler needs in Paris, where kosher food is plentiful, is very different from what they need in Tokyo.

North America: USA & Canada

In the United States and Canada, the Chabad network is incredibly dense. Major metropolitan areas like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, and Toronto have dozens of branches. Many operate full-service kosher restaurants, bakeries, and butcher shops. For travelers, the primary role of Chabad here is often providing Shabbat hospitality and daily minyanim. On university campuses, from Ivy League schools to state universities, Chabad is a major hub for student life, offering Shabbat meals and a welcoming space for thousands of students. For business travelers in suburban office parks, the local Chabad may be the only reliable option for a kosher lunch or a Mincha service. Kashrut standards are generally very high, often with third-party certification.

Europe: East and West

In Western Europe, cities with established Jewish communities like Paris (Le Marais), London (Golders Green, Hendon, Stamford Hill), and Antwerp have a strong Chabad presence that complements a robust existing infrastructure. Here, Chabad often focuses on outreach, education, and providing a particularly warm and welcoming entry point for less-affiliated Jews or tourists. In Eastern Europe, however, Chabad has played a monumental role in the post-Communist revival of Jewish life. In cities like Prague, Budapest, and Warsaw, the Chabad house is often the most visible and accessible center for Jewish tourists, providing the bulk of kosher food services and prayer options.

Asia: An Essential Hub for Backpackers and Business Travelers

For Jewish travelers in Asia, the Chabad network is not just helpful—it is indispensable. Chabad of Bangkok on Khao San Road in Thailand is legendary, serving thousands of Israeli backpackers. Chabad of Tokyo provides a critical resource for business travelers and tourists in a city with very few kosher options. Chabad houses in Mumbai, Pushkar, and Goa in India; Kathmandu in Nepal; and Ho Chi Minh City in Vietnam have become famous waypoints on the backpacker trail. Here, the "Hechsher Shliach" model is common, and travelers should be prepared for a more rustic, but deeply authentic, experience. The food is often simple, hearty, and geared towards a younger, budget-conscious crowd, alongside options for business visitors.

South America & the Caribbean

Similar to Asia, Chabad is a crucial resource in this region. Chabad of Cusco, Peru, is a world-famous destination for Israeli backpackers heading to Machu Picchu. In popular resort towns like Cancun (Mexico), Aruba, and Punta Cana (Dominican Republic), Chabad provides kosher food, Shabbat services, and holiday programs primarily for American tourists. These centers are often more structured, with set prices for meals and services, reflecting their tourist-centric clientele. They play a significant role during peak seasons, especially Passover and the winter holidays.

Israel: A Different Role

In a country where kosher food and synagogues are ubiquitous, Chabad's role shifts. Here, the focus is almost entirely on spiritual outreach. Chabad stands ("Tefillin stands") are common sights in public squares and transportation hubs. They run programs in secular neighborhoods, distribute Shabbat candles on Friday afternoons, and maintain a presence at Ben Gurion Airport to help travelers put on tefillin. While some Chabad-affiliated restaurants exist, their primary function in Israel is not providing basic kosher access but spreading the teachings of the Lubavitcher Rebbe and strengthening Jewish practice.

Africa and Oceania

From Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa to Nairobi, Kenya, and Lagos, Nigeria, Chabad houses provide an anchor for small local communities and the tourists, diplomats, and businesspeople who visit. In Australia, major cities like Sydney and Melbourne have multiple Chabad centers that serve both locals and a steady stream of tourists with Shabbat meals, minyanim, and community events.

Shabbat, Holidays, and Logistical Planning

Successfully integrating a Chabad visit into your travels requires some advance planning, especially for Shabbat and major holidays.

Shabbat Meals and Hospitality

The Friday night dinner at a Chabad house is a signature experience. It typically involves a multi-course meal, singing, and words of Torah, shared with a diverse crowd of locals, students, and travelers. It is not a restaurant. While some large, tourist-focused centers have fixed pricing, most operate on a donation basis. It is courteous and essential to book your spot online or by phone/email in advance so the shlucha can plan accordingly. A typical suggested donation for a Shabbat meal in a Western country might be $36–$72 USD per person, while in Southeast Asia, it could be closer to $18–$36 USD. If you genuinely cannot afford it, most Chabad houses will host you regardless.

Finding Accommodation for Shabbat

If you plan to spend Shabbat, you must consider lodging within walking distance of the Chabad house. Many Chabad websites list nearby hotels. It is wise to check the walking distance on a map yourself. In some cases, particularly for students or backpackers, the Chabad family may be able to offer a spare room or connect you with a local family for home hospitality (hachnasat orchim). Always ask well in advance and be respectful of your hosts' home and privacy.

Pesach (Passover) Programs: Pesach 2027

Chabad plays a massive role in the global kosher travel market through its Passover programs. For Pesach 2027 (April 1–9, 2027), hundreds of Chabad-affiliated programs will take place in resort destinations worldwide. These are typically all-inclusive affairs, with gourmet kosher-for-Passover catering, lectures, entertainment, and children's camps, all based out of a rented hotel.

Popular destinations for these programs include:

Europe: The Algarve in Portugal, the Greek Islands, the Italian Lakes (Como, Maggiore), and the Spanish coast.
North & Central America: Orlando and Miami in Florida, the Catskills in New York, Cancun, and elsewhere in Mexico.
The Caribbean: Aruba, Punta Cana, the Bahamas.
Asia: Major programs often take place in Thailand and other hubs.
Israel: While not run by Chabad, many hotels in Israel offer similar all-inclusive Pesach packages.

These programs are a high-end travel product, with prices often ranging from $4,000 to $10,000+ USD per person for the 8-9 day holiday. The kashrut is generally very strict (non-gebrokts, shmura matzah), but it is still wise to confirm the specific supervising agency for the program.

Navigating the Chabad Network: Practical Advice

Finding a Chabad House: The easiest way to find a local center is through a web search for "Chabad [City Name]" or by using the official global Chabad directory. Many travelers use the phrase "Chabad near me" in map applications upon arrival.

Contact in Advance: For anything beyond popping in for a quick prayer service, contact them ahead of time. This is especially true for Shabbat meals, holiday services, or any kashrut-related inquiries. Remember, you are often contacting a busy family, not a corporate office.

Understanding the Culture: Chabad houses are warm and non-judgmental spaces. You do not need to be Orthodox or religiously knowledgeable to participate. The goal of the shluchim is to provide a positive Jewish experience for any Jew, regardless of their background or affiliation. Dress is usually modest but varies with the local culture; when in doubt, business casual is a safe choice for Shabbat.

Financial Support: Chabad houses are not centrally funded. Each center is responsible for its own fundraising. While they will often provide services for free or for a nominal donation, they rely on the generosity of visitors and their local community to operate. If you have a positive experience and are in a position to do so, making a meaningful contribution is the best way to show your appreciation and ensure the Chabad house will be there for the next traveler who needs it.

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Virtually all food served by a Chabad house is kosher. However, the specific standard of kashrut can vary. In major Western cities, they may have a formal certification from a recognized agency (like OU, CRC, KLBD). In more remote locations, the local Chabad emissary (shliach) often provides the supervision themselves. If you adhere to specific stringencies like Chalav Yisrael or Glatt/Beit Yosef meat, it is always best to inquire politely in advance.

'''), WriteCategoryRegionGuideFaq(q='''How much should I donate for a Shabbat meal?''', a='''

There is no fixed global price. Many Chabad houses operate on a donation basis, while others, especially in tourist-heavy locations, have a set price. As a guideline for June 2026, a suggested donation in the US or Europe might be $36–$72 USD per person. In backpacker hubs in Asia or South America, it may be closer to $18–$36 USD. If you cannot afford the suggested amount, you will almost always be hosted anyway. Booking in advance is more important than the specific amount you give.

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Absolutely not. Chabad's philosophy is to be a welcoming home for every Jew, regardless of their level of observance, affiliation, or knowledge. You will find people from all walks of life at a Chabad house. There is no dress code beyond general modesty and respect, and participation in prayers or discussions is entirely voluntary.

'''), WriteCategoryRegionGuideFaq(q='''Can Chabad help me with a place to stay for Shabbat?''', a='''

Sometimes. While Chabad houses are not hotels, many can offer guidance. They often list hotels within walking distance on their websites. For students or backpackers, they may be able to arrange home hospitality with their family or another local community member if asked respectfully and well in advance. This is a form of kindness, not a guaranteed service.

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The most effective methods are searching online for "Chabad" followed by your city name (e.g., "Chabad Tokyo") or using the official Chabad.org global directory. Once in a city, searching "Chabad near me" in a map application on your smartphone is also very effective at locating the closest center.

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Chabad-affiliated Passover (Pesach) programs are typically high-end, all-inclusive vacations at hotels in resort destinations. They include gourmet kosher-for-Passover meals (usually non-gebrokts and with shmura matzah), communal seders, daily prayer services, lectures, kids' camps, and local entertainment. Popular locations for Pesach 2027 (April 1–9) include the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, the Italian Lakes, and Greece. They are a convenient but premium option, with costs often running into thousands of dollars per person.

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No, their primary mission is to serve the local Jewish community in their city, which may include a handful of families or thousands of people. They provide year-round services, including holiday events, educational classes for adults and children, life-cycle events, and pastoral support. Travelers are an important and welcome part of the community, but the shluchim are deeply invested in building a permanent Jewish infrastructure locally.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the food at every Chabad house kosher?

\n\nVirtually all food served by a Chabad house is kosher. However, the specific standard of kashrut can vary. In major Western cities, they may have a formal certification from a recognized agency (like OU, CRC, KLBD). In more remote locations, the local Chabad emissary (shliach) often provides the supervision themselves. If you adhere to specific stringencies like Chalav Yisrael or Glatt/Beit Yosef meat, it is always best to inquire politely in advance.\n\n

How much should I donate for a Shabbat meal?

\n\nThere is no fixed global price. Many Chabad houses operate on a donation basis, while others, especially in tourist-heavy locations, have a set price. As a guideline for June 2026, a suggested donation in the US or Europe might be $36–$72 USD per person. In backpacker hubs in Asia or South America, it may be closer to $18–$36 USD. If you cannot afford the suggested amount, you will almost always be hosted anyway. Booking in advance is more important than the specific amount you give.\n\n

Do I need to be religious to visit a Chabad house?

\n\nAbsolutely not. Chabad\'s philosophy is to be a welcoming home for every Jew, regardless of their level of observance, affiliation, or knowledge. You will find people from all walks of life at a Chabad house. There is no dress code beyond general modesty and respect, and participation in prayers or discussions is entirely voluntary.\n\n

Can Chabad help me with a place to stay for Shabbat?

\n\nSometimes. While Chabad houses are not hotels, many can offer guidance. They often list hotels within walking distance on their websites. For students or backpackers, they may be able to arrange home hospitality with their family or another local community member if asked respectfully and well in advance. This is a form of kindness, not a guaranteed service.\n\n

How do I find the nearest Chabad house?

\n\nThe most effective methods are searching online for \

What are Chabad Pesach programs like?

\n\nChabad-affiliated Passover (Pesach) programs are typically high-end, all-inclusive vacations at hotels in resort destinations. They include gourmet kosher-for-Passover meals (usually non-gebrokts and with shmura matzah), communal seders, daily prayer services, lectures, kids\' camps, and local entertainment. Popular locations for Pesach 2027 (April 1–9) include the Caribbean, Mexico, Florida, the Italian Lakes, and Greece. They are a convenient but premium option, with costs often running into thousands of dollars per person.\n\n

Are Chabad houses just for travelers?

\n\nNo, their primary mission is to serve the local Jewish community in their city, which may include a handful of families or thousands of people. They provide year-round services, including holiday events, educational classes for adults and children, life-cycle events, and pastoral support. Travelers are an important and welcome part of the community, but the shluchim are deeply invested in building a permanent Jewish infrastructure locally.\n\n