Pico Shul is a true community gem. Founded by Rabbi Yonah and Rebbetzin Rachel Bookstein, it is a capstone of their many years of outreach and leadership in unique Jewish communities across the world. Pico Shul opened in the most concentrated Jewish neighborhood in the U.S., and the success by way of crowds and powerfully moving experiential Jewish practice is especially demonstrated when considering the number of shuls within a block radius, never mind the entire neighborhood. That's because Pico Shul casts a wide net within the world of Orthodox Judaism, and is defined by its lack of definition, specifically existing outside of the boxes so many communities work with to define their identity and niche. Pico Shul is a space for the niche-less niche, the outliers and seekers that want something beyond the paradigms that so many communities rely on. The Booksteins are deeply learned and religious, and they make a space for Jews from every walk of life. Consistent with a foundation principled in innovation and high-minded inclusiveness, Pico Shul is ever-evolving, trying new methods and constantly grappling with unique concepts and approaches. This process of change is often introduced through the congregants and participants, working together with the Rabbi and Rebbetzin to continuously realize a deeper and more meaningful space for Jewish connection. Pico Shul is completely engaged with an organic, grassroots process of growth and inventiveness. I highly encourage checking out Pico Shul If you live in LA or are visiting LA and want to experience a deep and beautiful space for Shabbos or to participate in special programming, every week and for holidays and special occasions. Pico Shul changes every week, so if you have come, you can anticipate fresh ideas and expressions each time you return. This shul is a sign of a deeper level of faith and love, rarely seen though often dreamt about. read more

I have never seen a shul more seamlessly integrate art, spirituality, chesed and pure ahavas into their practice than I have at Pico Shul. However, to refer to it simply as a 'shul' is to sell it short. I have found it to be much more a vibrant, welcoming community that binds souls together in their love of all things Jewish and Spiritual. From epic high holidays programs to weekly Shabbat services, ongoing classes, art shows & musical performances it richly covers the gamut of Jewish communal experience. Rabbi Bookstein who runs the organization with his wife, is really unique: he's an American who studied at Oxford and has dedicated his entire life to Jewish outreach. He's run a ton of outreach programs at unusual venues, including rock & film festivals like Coachella & Sundance & created the massively successful Jewlicious Festival (which he held aboard the Queen Mary!) The Booksteins really know how to reach out to people with creative, unique event programming: during sukkot they constructed a giant retro movie theater (complete with a concession stand) inside an enormous sukkah for a spontaneous film festival that people are still buzzing about! They continuously find new, stimulating ways to embrace and experience Judaism and share it in a gentle, authentic manner that makes everyone feel welcome. read more

So let's give an outsider's perspective here ... a non-LA, non-US, overseas visitor's take on the phenomenon that is The Pico Shul ... You are blessed LA ... big time blessed to have such a unique Shul, such a Rabbi and Rebbetzin, and such a community in your midst The Pico Shul gets it, seriously gets it, in ways that serve as a model and inspiration for Jewish spiritual centres and communities worldwide We're talking authentic, soulful, inspirational, creative, inclusive, non-judgemental, artistic, spiritual, growth-focused, non-threatening, participatory Judaism washed down with LA's unique warmth and style I've seen over 15 years of communities in Jerusalem, New York and London and heard about many communities that I've not merited to visit But ask me for a template for a Shul and community for open-minded, intelligent, creative, spiritually-seeking young Jews and I'm pointing towards The Pico Shul Jewish in LA with an angle on life and looking to find out more about Judaism and to connect to some really soulful healthy people ... Pico Shul's your place!!! With blessings and appreciation from London ... and thanks for the inspiration!!! read more

Pico Shul is an Orthodox, eclectic, authentic community focused on people age 40 and under. Its primary goal is for attendees to take their spiritual growth seriously, but brilliantly creates a non-judgmental space of love, joy and acceptance to do so. Expect to interact with people of all stripes and religious affiliations. Somehow, Pico Shul -- led by its spiritual leaders, Rabbi Yonah Bookstein and Rebbetzin Rachel Bookstein -- is able to channel the passion of its diverse attendees into a unified, cohesive atmosphere. While many synagogues have set patterns of how they conduct their operations, Pico Shul is constantly shifting its colors, flavors, people, and points of connection in a mindful manner. Everything about this community - from its delicious and healthy kiddushes, to its heartfelt prayer, singing and dancing, to its opportunities for study and learning - attracts those who are searching for the gateways of their soul to be opened. I recommend Pico Shul to any Jewish, young professional looking to connect with the Jewish people and who desires to commit themselves to working towards spiritual transcendence. read more

I grew up in Arizona with a large Jewish population, and amazing orthodox communities, that are growing bigger and bigger each year. Being Sephardic on my dad's side, and Ashkenaz on my mom's, I felt a little out of place in the extremely Ashkenaz communities that Arizona had to offer. After moving to LA for the Persian community, and realizing that I didn't fit in with them either, one of my friends brought me to Pico Shul just a few short months after they started. I was in awe as to how welcoming and comfortable it was to be there. After my first couple experiences with Pico Shul, I told my friend that I needed to get involved. For the first time in my life, I have found a shul and a community that feels like home. For someone who always felt that I could never quite fit in anywhere, finding Pico Shul was a true miracle. I can't even begin to describe how unbelievable Rabbi Yonah and his wife, Rachel, are. They are a powerhouse together, as well as on their own, and without them, Pico Shul would not be what it is. Thank you, Pico Shul, for giving me a place to call home. read more

Rabbi Yonah and Rebbetzin Rachel have opened a wonderful and enjoyable shul in the heart of Pico Robertson. They are warm and caring individuals whose hospitality and friendliness radiates throughout the entire synagogue. It is a non-judgmental highly accepting community for any person who wants to grow spiritually regardless of the level of observance. Becoming a part of Pico Shul also means not only a wonderful lunch and an uplifting third meal every week, but being involved in all the programs and activities that Rabbi Yonah is constantly spearheading throughout the year. All people will feel comfortable and at home at this wonderful house of worship and brotherhood. I hope this terrific shul only has continued success and that Rabbi Yonah and his wife continue to inspire all who have been blessed to walk through his doors. Enjoy! read more

Pico Shul is a place to grow spiritually from the inside out and connect with others who want to make the world a better place. It's a thriving and youthful Jewish environment with lively services with joyous singing. Services are every Shabbat and holiday morning and afternoon in a converted warehouse of Tomchei LA, where they distribute food to needy families every Thursday night. Welcoming people, bi-lingual prayer books, helpful announcements, make Pico Shul comfortable for the novice and expert alike. One of the trademarks of the morning service is Learn and L'chaim. At 10:30am, following the first part of the service, we study together for a few minutes. After a quick Kiddush, enjoy some delicious cake, grape juice and for those who want, whisky. Every Shabbat there is an epic a Shabbat Kiddush Lunch too. read more

The first thing that comes to mind when I think about Pico Shul is "Chessed". Rabbi Yonah and his wife Rachel are such caring, selfless, and giving individuals. They toil day and night for the community, whether it be through organizing events, preparing shabbos meals, or giving torah classes. They make everyone who comes through their doors feel right at home no matter what ethnicity, religious observance, or ideologies they may possess. Pico Shul is a very special place and I highly recommend it! read more

How can I describe my experience at this synagogue and in the Pico Shul community? Warm, funky fresh, and spiritual growth orientated, Pico Shul has created the most special place unique to the orthodox community of LA! Rabbi Yonah and Rebbetzen Rachel Bookstein have certainly filled a much needed space in the LA Jewish community with their genuine warmth and readiness to embrace any Jew from any corner of the world. read more

Pico Shul is an incredible community of young, vibrant, authentic, and eclectic individuals seeking to connect to their Jewish roots. Rabbi Yonah and his wife, Rebbetzin Rachel Bookstein are incredible bastions of Jewish spiritual connection and practice, and have created an environment that is incredibly hospitable and welcoming. Definitely come and check out Pico Shul - the cholent alone is worth the visit! read more

The Rabbi is a righteous mensch and the community is exceptionally warm and welcoming to those who want to connect with their Jewish roots. Hands down best first-stop in LA for the pintele yid to hop back on the derech or just have some delicious cholent and a good time. Whatever it is you're looking for, the Pico Shul family delivers. Much bracha v'simcha and love. -Gordon read more

When I first moved to California I did not have a community. After spending one Shabbat at Pico Shul, I knew that this place was special. Rabbi Yonah was immediately welcoming and kind. Rachel, the Rebitzen, prepared the most amazing delicious food for the kiddish. I love Pico Shul and anyone who has been there knows that it is such a gem of a place! read more

Pico Shul may be one of the best locations for community togetherness and spiritual fitness. Rabbi Yonah provides a space for spiritual exploration at any level. With constant programs going on and events being thrown, it is hands down the best synagogue available. Nothing but an open invitation to anyone. read more

Pico Shul has an incredible balance of spirituality, community and soul. Everyone feels at home at Pico Shul, and it feels like you've been there forever after taking just a few steps inside. Rabbi Yonah and Rachel have incredible vibes and run the best synagogue on Pico, bar none :-) read more

Pico Shul is the most welcoming and warm orthodox community I have ever experienced. Everyone in the community really cares about each other and giving back to the larger Los Angeles Jewish community. If you've never seen it, you should check it out for yourself!! read more

It's awesome. Love Rabbi Yonah. #petrichor. His services are always inspirational and enjoyable. Rebbetzin Rachel makes the best food and always makes sure to let me know where the olives are. read more

This is one of the most amazing, soulful, spiritual congregations I've ever been a part of. The community comes together in an uplifting service to deliver an experience like no other. read more

Pico Shul is a warm and inviting traditional orthodox community, where people of all levels of observance and familiarity are welcome to join and learn. read more

If you're looking for a place to to work on personal development and spiritual growth and be a part of a dynamic growing community, this is your place. read more