WEST HARTFORD — Eli Barashi has joined the Mandell JCC as the executive chef of the newly renovated café, it recently was announced by JCC Executive Director David Jacobs.

A graduate of the Culinary Institute of America, Chef Eli Barashi has worked in many types of culinary settings, from upscale professional kitchens to children’s camps. His culinary journey has taken him to New York, Pennsylvania and New Jersey in the U.S., and to Jerusalem and Natanya in Israel. He will relocate to the Hartford area from his current home in Paramus, New Jersey, with his wife and two children.

The Café J is unofficially opened this month, with a grand opening scheduled for Sunday, May 15. The eatery’s revamped menu includes all-day breakfast, fresh salads, sandwiches, paninis and pizzas, along with weekly specials.