We Met at Grossinger’s

Synopsis

For decades, as prejudice blocked Jewish immigrants from fully integrating into American society, the Catskills’ “Borscht Belt” emerged as a sanctuary of acceptance, with Grossinger’s Resort and Hotel serving as its undisputed heart.

More than just the real-world muse for the iconic 1987 film Dirty Dancing, Grossinger’s offered a vital psychological and physical refuge for New Yorkers seeking an escape from the exclusionary atmosphere of the city. As its prestige grew, the resort became a cultural crossroads, hosting a mosaic of legends ranging from Jackie Robinson to Eleanor Roosevelt.

Through the lens of award-winning filmmaker Paula Eiselt, this lost era is brought back to life with a vibrant, immersive intimacy. The result is a poignant tribute to the depth of Jewish heritage and a celebration of its profound, lasting impact on the American story.