Meet Jewish Person of the Week – Jordin Ruthstein

Let’s Meet Jewish Person of the Week – Jordin Ruthstein

Meet local foodie Jordin Ruthstein (@westloopsoul) and learn about the eats you need to experience in the city of Chicago. Jordin is also a ChiTribe food blogger.

Where did you grow up?

Highland Park, IL

What did you do Jewish growing up?

When I was young my family would celebrate all the major Jewish holidays together. And, as a Highland Parker, I attended about 3 Bar Mitzvahs a week for two years straight! For my Bat Mitzvah I celebrated by going to a Bulls game with 40 of my closest friends. In college, I was also the secretary of Hillel.

What do you do Jewish now?

A few years ago I went on my Birthright trip. Now, I’m beginning as a contributing writer for ChiTribe!

Where did you go to school?

I studied Journalism at the University of Missouri-Columbia

What do you do for work?

I’m the Lead Marketing Strategist at Simple Machines Marketing. I also started West Loop Soul, a micro-influencing platform in Chicago turned marketing side hustle where I specialize in brand essence development, content marketing, and marketing strategy consultation. 

What do you do for fun/to relax?

I go out to eat! In fact, my boyfriend and I have only cooked at home 5 times in 13 months. He’s a foodie – he runs the Instagram account @bestfoodalex – and we actually met through food blogging, so we love to go out and try new restaurants together. I also love snuggling up with my puppy, Waffles, on the couch or taking him to the dog park!

What is your favorite way to spend shabbat?

I typically spend shabbat at home with Waffles. I work two jobs and manage my micro-influencing presence, so by Friday night I am completely drained. It’s my night to rest and relax at home after what’s usually 12-14 hours days every day during the week.

Top three things on your Chicago bucket list?

I’ve done a lot and seen a lot in Chicago, so this one’s a little hard for me. For other people new to the city I recommend walking the river walk, going to the Shedd Aquarium, and going to watch the Chicago Marathon in person.

For me, three things I have left to do are seeing a movie in Millenium Park, going to the Garfield Park Conservatory, and ride the water taxi!

When the tribe gathers… It usually involves a lot of good food