Had to Post this Chowhound Reply

I often visit Chowhound to get ideas, get restaurant recommendations, etc. I went to the Kosher Board to get ideas about the "Jewish Menu" I have been asked to do for the Culinary Arts Program at American River College...for their Oak Cafe.

The thread is long..and eventually was moved to the General Chowhounding Board, but I loved this reply, as I did many.

On behalf of Jews everywhere, I would like to thank you for taking an interst in Jewish cuisine(s). At the risk of stereotyping my fellow Jews, the old adage -Ask 2 Jews a question & you'll get 3 (at least) opinions - seems to be demonstrated by the responses to your inquiry. Please don't feel under attack, as, for many of us, this is merely the hallmark of a lively discussion. Consider yourself lucky that you didn't inquire about a kosher Jewish menu. The opinions would have increased exponentially.

While Jews have historically (and some times hysterically) lived in scattered places around the world, the largest concentrations have been in Eastern Europe and the Middle East. The cuisines from those areas, based more on geography than religion, seem to be those most identified with "Jewish food". With that in mind, I believe that selections from either or both of those cuisines will satisfy what your guests expect from "Jewish food." And don't forget, at the end of the meal, a little heartburn is perfectly acceptable.

Good luck with your dinner.