Chicago food blogger Chris Campbell, known online as Chris CARESNONE or the “Babka King,” recently spoke out against hate and antisemitism in the food world. In a video posted on his Instagram page on April 9, Campbell discussed the antisemitic comments he had seen on content featuring Jewish food. He highlighted the death threats he received and expressed his concern over the negative attention Jewish food videos were receiving compared to other cuisines he had tried from around the world. Despite the backlash, Campbell decided to use his platform to spread love and raise awareness about the issue.
When speaking to Fox News Digital, Campbell explained that while the comment sections of his Jewish food content were not full of hate, they did receive the most negative attention. He discussed the death threats he received, describing them as some of the most heinous things he had ever heard. Despite initially wondering if trying Jewish food was putting his life in jeopardy, Campbell ultimately doubled down on his Jewish food tastings to spread more love through his platform. He acknowledged that some people were scared by the situation but felt compelled to speak out against the hate he had witnessed.
Campbell’s journey to becoming the “Babka King” started with a surprise package from Half Moon Rondout Café in Kingston, New York, containing a babka. This experience ignited his love for babka, leading him to try various Jewish treats, including hamantaschen and pastrami sandwiches. J.T. Pinna, the owner of Half Moon Rondout Café, shared that Campbell now has a “PhD in babka” after tasting so many varieties. What began as a simple tasting session turned into a sensation, with Campbell receiving a flood of Jewish food packages from his followers and supporters.
Despite facing challenges and receiving antisemitic comments, Campbell remains committed to embracing and exploring different cultures through food. He strives to encourage others to expand their palates and learn more about various cuisines, including Jewish food. Campbell’s dedication to using his platform to combat hate and promote love and understanding has resonated with many, inspiring them to have a similar mindset. By sharing his experiences and speaking out against antisemitism, Campbell hopes to make a positive impact in the food community and beyond.
As Campbell continues his journey as the “Babka King,” he remains open to trying new foods and flavors from different cultures. He does not take sides when it comes to choosing between cinnamon and chocolate babka, emphasizing his desire to explore and appreciate the diversity that each cuisine offers. Through his adventures in tasting various foods, Campbell hopes to foster unity and acceptance among diverse communities, encouraging others to embrace different cultures through the universal language of food. Despite facing challenges and encountering hate, Campbell’s positive spirit and dedication to spreading love prevails in his mission to bring people together through cuisine.
