Kosher style

Kosher-style cuisine refers to foods typically associated with Jewish culinary traditions but not necessarily adhering to Jewish dietary laws, known as kashrut. This culinary approach emphasizes the style and flavors of Jewish cuisine rather than strict compliance with kosher regulations. Generally, kosher-style foods refrain from using meat from non-kosher animals, such as pigs and shellfish, and avoid combining meat and dairy products. In some jurisdictions, marketing food as "kosher style" can be illegal due to the potential to mislead consumers.

Kosher-style foods are often found in delicatessens, where traditional Ashkenazic Jewish dishes such as bagels with lox, knishes, blintzes, matzo ball soup, and a variety of deli sandwiches are served. It is important to note that these foods, labeled as kosher style, are usually not prepared according to strict Jewish dietary laws. For example, a Reuben sandwich or a Monte Cristo sandwich, which combine meat and cheese, would not be considered kosher.

Some people who do not strictly adhere to kosher laws might describe their diet as "kosher style" avoiding certain prohibited foods and not mixing meat with dairy. However, those who strictly observe kashrut will avoid kosher-style establishments. This can be confusing for observant Jews seeking genuinely kosher food, especially since some kosher-style restaurants might operate on the Jewish Sabbath, contrary to traditional Jewish law.

In cities like Toronto, some kosher-style restaurants even serve pork products to appeal to a broader clientele, despite pork being non-kosher. This practice can be controversial within the Jewish community as it further blurs the distinction between kosher and kosher-style dining.