Yamas Greek Restaurant

Yamas Greek Restaurant is a delightful culinary gem nestled in Austin, Texas, offering an authentic Greek dining experience. The name 'Yamas' itself carries beautiful meaning in Greek culture - it's not just a toast but an invocation of good health and celebration of life, derived from 'στην υγεια μας' which means 'to our health.'

This charming establishment is owned by the dynamic duo Chris and Roxie Nikolakos, who have created more than just a restaurant - they've built a warm, inviting space that feels like being welcomed into their home. Their vision centers around the Greek concept of 'filoxenia' (making a stranger a friend) and 'kefi' (joy and positive vibes), which permeates every aspect of the dining experience.

Yamas specializes in a vibrant fusion of traditional and modern Greek cuisine with a particular emphasis on seafood. Some of their standout dishes include:

1. Wood fired oysters served with cumin-chipotle sauce
2. Fried calamari that customers rave about
3. Grilled octopus that's described as "astounding"
4. Cheese saganaki
5. Mussels prepared to perfection
6. Chicken souvlaki

The restaurant features both indoor and outdoor seating, creating a wonderful ambiance for enjoying their Mediterranean delights. With its intimate atmosphere, passionate staff, and carefully selected ingredients, Yamas offers more than just a meal - it's an experience steeped in Greek tradition that has earned it a place among Austin's favorites.