Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City

Your Home for Jewish Life around Universal City

Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City is a warm and welcoming Jewish community serving Universal City, Studio City East, Colfax Meadows, Cahuenga Pass, Hollywood Hills East, Woodbridge Park, and the surrounding neighborhoods.

Led by Rabbi Mendel and Leah Baitelman, Chabad Universal is a place where every Jew can feel comfortable, connected, and at home.

Whether you have been involved in Jewish life for years, are reconnecting with your heritage, or are attending a Jewish program for the first time, you are always welcome. No membership, affiliation, previous knowledge, or level of observance is required.

Our Story

Rabbi Mendel and Leah Baitelman founded Chabad of Universal City in 2021 with a goal: to make Jewish life accessible to every Jew living, working, or visiting the Universal City area.

Together with their children, they have built a growing community where individuals and families can celebrate Jewish holidays, attend Shabbat services and dinners, study Torah, enroll their children in Hebrew School, participate in meaningful mitzvot, and form lasting Jewish connections.

Chabad is not supported by a central organization or membership dues. Everything we do is funded by local individuals, families, and businesses who believe in strengthening Jewish life in our community.

Jewish Programs for Every Age

Throughout the year, Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City offers programs and services for children, adults, families, visitors, and seniors.

Shabbat Services and Dinners

Join us for welcoming Shabbat services, Kiddush, cholent, community dinners, and special Friday night programs. Our regular Shabbat morning service begins at 10:00 AM and is followed by Kiddush.

Whether you attend services every week or have not been inside a synagogue in years, you will be welcomed warmly and helped throughout the service.

Neighborhood Hebrew School

Our Studio City and Universal City Neighborhood Hebrew School gives children a positive and engaging Jewish education.

Students learn Hebrew reading, Jewish holidays, mitzvot, prayer, Jewish history, traditions, and values through interactive lessons, games, stories, songs, and hands-on activities. Our goal is for every child to develop knowledge, confidence, and genuine pride in being Jewish.

Private Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation is also available.

Adult Jewish Education

Chabad offers weekly Torah classes and special courses covering Jewish belief, relationships, ethics, history, prayer, medicine, money, current questions, and practical Jewish living.

Classes are open to everyone, regardless of previous Jewish education. In-person and online options are available for many classes.

Jewish Holidays

Celebrate Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, Sukkot, Chanukah, Purim, Passover, Shavuot, and other Jewish holidays with your local community.

Our holiday programs include services, community celebrations, children’s activities, menorah lightings, Shofar in the Park, festive meals, and opportunities to experience each holiday in a meaningful and enjoyable way.

High Holiday services are open to the community, with no membership required.

Programs for Children and Families

Our children’s and family programming includes Mommy & Me, Hebrew School, children’s holiday events, Jewish Kids programs, family celebrations, and hands-on Jewish experiences throughout the year.

Children from every background are welcome.

Personal Jewish Assistance

Rabbi Mendel and Leah are available to help individuals and families with:

  • Mezuzah placement and checking

  • Tefillin

  • Bar and Bat Mitzvah preparation

  • Jewish lifecycle guidance

  • Holiday needs

  • Jewish education and personal questions

  • Hospital and home visits

  • Support during difficult circumstances

  • Connecting with local Jewish resources

Please contact us whenever a Jewish need or question arises.

Visiting Universal Studios ?

Chabad welcomes Jewish visitors staying near Universal Studios Hollywood, Universal CityWalk and the surrounding area.

We can provide information about Shabbat services, kosher food, nearby hotels, local mikvahs, candle-lighting times, and other Jewish resources. Kosher weekday or Shabbat meals may also be available by advance arrangement.

Everyone Is Welcome

You do not need to be Orthodox, observant, affiliated, or knowledgeable to participate.

You will never be judged by how much Hebrew you know, how often you attend, what you wear, or where you are in your Jewish journey.

Come as you are. Ask questions. Meet other local Jewish families. Celebrate a holiday. Attend a class. Join us for Shabbat. Give your child a joyful Jewish experience.

There is a place for you here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to be a member?

No. Chabad does not require membership to attend services, classes, holiday celebrations, or community programs.

Do I need to be Orthodox or religious?

No. Jews from every background and level of observance are welcome.

What if I do not know Hebrew?

That is completely fine. Many participants have limited or no Hebrew knowledge. Services and classes are explained and accessible.

What time are Shabbat services?

Our regular Shabbat morning service begins at 10:00 AM and is generally followed by Kiddush and cholent. Please check our current calendar or contact us before attending, as schedules sometimes change.

Are children welcome?

Yes. We offer Hebrew School, Mommy & Me, holiday programs, family events, and other Jewish experiences for children.

Where is Chabad located?

Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City is located at:

10867 Fruitland Drive, Suite 101
Studio City, California 91604

Our Neighborhood Hebrew School meets at a separate Studio City location.

Is there a fee to attend?

Many Chabad programs are free or offered at an accessible cost. Chabad does not charge membership dues and is supported by voluntary donations from local community members.

Meet Rabbi Mendel and Leah Baitelman

Rabbi Mendel and Leah direct Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City together with their family.

Their work is personal and community focused: visiting local homes and businesses, teaching adults and children, hosting Shabbat meals, organizing holiday celebrations, helping people perform mitzvot, and being available whenever someone needs Jewish guidance or support.

They look forward to meeting you and welcoming you into the community.

Contact Chabad Jewish Center of Universal City

Address: 10867 Fruitland Drive, Suite 101, Studio City, CA 91604
Phone: 818-299-7562
Website: JewishUniversal.com
Instagram: @Chabad_Universal

Contact us to learn about upcoming services, classes, Hebrew School, holiday programs, community events, or personal Jewish assistance.

Every Jew deserves a place to belong. We look forward to welcoming you.