A Stop at Chocolatte Reveals a Promise Made in Gaza Captivity

By COLlive reporter

A routine stop at a café in Crown Heights turned into an emotional moment when Ohad Ben Ami, who was freed after 491 days after being taken hostage during the October 7 attacks, walked into Chocolatte, the popular 24-hour cafe on Kingston Avenue, across the street from 770 Eastern Parkway.

One of the café’s owners, upon recognizing Ben Ami, was visibly moved and presented him on the spot with a yellow Yarmulka embroidered with the words “I chose the path of faith” – a symbol of hope and prayer for the hostages’ safe return.

Moments later, he noticed Ben Ami’s wife looking to purchase another yarmulka bearing a military-themed design.

When he asked about it, she explained softly that it was meant for another hostage.

Thinking at first she meant someone already released, she then continued, “This kippah is for someone who is still being held in captivity. We came here to pray for him.”

Ben Ami then joined the conversation and revealed the poignant reason behind their visit: it was for his friend from captivity, Elkana Bohbot.

“When we were held captive together,” Ben Ami shared, “Elkana asked me that if I was freed before him, I should go to 770 Eastern Parkway in New York City and pray for him.”

Ben Ami did just that when he came to Crown Heights and davened at the Rebbe’s renowed shul, a source of light and blessing to the world.

“This visit was very important to me,” he added. “And may we merit to soon return here together with him.”