Persian Restaurant Yalda From Ashkan Familli Opens for Mezze and Kebabs in Sandy Springs | Eater Atlanta

"Named for the Iranian winter solstice festival celebrated on December 21—the “longest and darkest night of the year”—this Persian restaurant opened its first of two locations Tuesday, December 27, in Sandy Springs and is currently operating for takeout only at Aria Village (just off Abernathy Road) with dine-in service slated to begin next Tuesday; hours are Tuesday–Sunday, 4 p.m. to 9:30 p.m., with lunch starting soon and takeout available. The menu features a variety of Persian and Mediterranean mezze plates and spreads like za’atar labneh and mirza ghasemi served with flatbread, along with kebabs, wraps, and grilled meat and seafood entrees; desserts include baklava with a choice of coffee or Persian ice cream, faloodeh, and a Persian ice cream sandwich made with ice cream infused with saffron, rose water, and pistachios, and wine and cocktails are available from the bar. Chef and co‑owner Ashkan Familli—born and raised in Iran and previously at Kyma—chose the name based on childhood memories of Yalda nights when family gathered to share food and stories, and the restaurant’s design draws inspiration from the northern Tehran countryside of Darband. A second Yalda is expected to open at the Osprey complex on Howell Mill Road and 10th Street early next year; website: yaldaatl.com." - Beth McKibben