NYC Restaurateur Sparks Controversy Over Mayoral Candidate

A prominent New York-based restaurateur has publicly opposed Zohran Mamdani’s bid for mayor, citing concerns about his political views and alleged antisemitism. This stance has put him at odds with fellow hospitality leader Keith McNally, who supports Mamdani and has criticized Rabin for his opposition.

David Rabin, behind iconic establishments like Lambs Club and Skylark, expressed strong opposition, stating, “I don’t want Mamdani to be mayor. I will do anything to prevent that.” Rabin claims Mamdani’s recent rise in polls is harmful to business and community safety, especially after the Hamas attacks on Israel on October 7, 2023, which he witnessed firsthand during a protest in Times Square. Rabin, who identifies as non-practicing Jewish, conveyed shock over pro-Hamas demonstrators waving swastikas publicly.

Rabin described Mamdani as inexperienced in government but politically active, running on promises to freeze rents and operate government-owned grocery stores. He accused Mamdani of attempting to push a Marxist and anti-Zionist agenda, calling him a “con artist” seeking office to implement these views.

The controversy escalated when Keith McNally, owner of renowned restaurants such as Balthazar and Minetta Tavern, responded to Rabin’s objections by calling his posts “toxic extremism.” McNally also posted an image of Mamdani with his arm around Mahmoud Khalil, an anti-Israel activist with a controversial background, which added fuel to the debate.

Mamdani recently sought to ease fears by meeting with business leaders to clarify his position, asserting he would avoid inflammatory rhetoric and that his criticisms of Israel do not equate to antisemitism. Despite this, key Democratic leaders in the state, including Governor Kathy Hochul, Senator Chuck Schumer, and Congressman Hakeem Jeffries, have refused to endorse him, reflecting ongoing political divisions.

Meanwhile, Rabin remains committed to opposing Mamdani’s candidacy, warning of the potential negative impact on the city’s stability and his own business interests.