Eli’s Bar Mitzvah: March 7, 2026
Two days with Eli’s family was exactly what the doctor ordered for this bar mitzvah. We started at Beth Tikvah for the rehearsal on Thursday and wrapped things up at the Next Door Restaurant in Unionville on Saturday. Rehearsal was a big one. Grandparents from both sides, lots of family, and at times we were taking up a serious amount of real estate in the sanctuary. I took Eli for a walk outside. Rain was definitely a factor but it had absolutely no effect on the smiles, the enthusiasm, or the good vibes. His sister was waiting in the wings for her turn, and the whole thing felt like fun and games. A quick Torah reading later and we were done at the synagogue and already looking forward to Saturday night. The Next Door Restaurant in Unionville is a fantastic venue for a smaller mitzvah celebration. I can attest because I’ve been there before and it was lovely to be back again. The food is stellar, the staff is welcoming, and the room is the perfect size. Eli and I used every inch of the outside space we could find. It’s a really interesting area and honestly unlike anything in Toronto. A few family photos outside and then we were ready to head in and celebrate. Jarrod and Jesse from Bounce Entertainment were holding court beautifully as they always do. The party did not stop. Dancing, great food, lots of laughs, and just good vibes all around. A delightful slideshow, some warm speeches, and then straight back to the dance floor. Way to go guys. Mazel tov. Now we wait for the next one.
The Story of Eli’s Bar Mitzvah: Selected Photos: HERE
All the Photos: HERE
•Photographer: Jonni Super
•DJ Entertainment: Jarred Bronstein and Jesse Cohen from Bounce
•Arcade: Hart Entertainment
•Venue: Next Door Restaurant
•Rabbi: Jarrod Grover at Beth Tikvah
•Chazan: Tibor Kovari