Yaya Mas Greek Kuzina

Austin Greek Restaurant Yamas Serves the Best Greek Seafood | Eater Austin

"Opened in June in the Highland Park West neighborhood, this new Greek restaurant—co-owned by Roxie and Hristos Nikolakos with a menu developed by chef Dimitrios Kelesoglou—leans seafood-forward and celebrates coastal southeastern European flavors. The grilled whole branzino, simply finished with extra-virgin olive oil and lemon, and plump giant scallops served in a savory dill sauce atop tomato are standout dishes; most entrees in the $30–$40 range are generously portioned for sharing. Other memorable items include a spanakopita served in an egg-roll–style for dipping into feta tzatziki, lemon-dressed potato wedges, a simple marouli salad of lettuce, feta, scallions, dill, and lemon oil, and a rich, sweet galaktoboureko for dessert. Cocktails make use of Greek spirits like ouzo and mastiha (the latter adding an herbal, woodsy note), with a signature lime-mint-sage drink and an array of Greek whites; the co-owners frequently circulate and sometimes offer a house celebratory shot. The dining room is bright and airy with large windows and a floral entry display early in the evening, then shifts into a dimmer, blue-lit, louder, club-like vibe later—making it equally suitable for an early meal and drinks or for lively nights out—while staff add festive touches like sparklers for celebrations and a table-to-table magician (the co-owner’s brother) who performs quick tricks." - Nadia Chaudhury