In Greek, Yaya is the nickname given to a Grandma. And this place really reflects the unpretentious, simple but pack-a-punch flavours of a Greek grandmother’s cooking.
Yaya was born after head chef Juan Arbelaez and his two Greek mates (who also happened to be olive oil producers founders of the Kalios brand) spent a drunken night putting the world to rights. They decided that Paris lacked an authentic Greek restaurant and they were the ones to right that wrong.
Yaya is a modern Greek restaurant, now with two Paris locations. I visited the central, Avenue Secrétan version.
The Neighbourhood
19th arrondissement. Very central and close to Gare du Nord, where Eurostar and European mainland trains arrive to. And a quick cab ride from two of my fave Paris hotels, 25Hours Hotel and the Hoxton.
Authentic modern Greek cuisine. Your first Paris lunch after hopping off the Eurostar.
The Best Bits
The beautiful design. Modern but with hints of traditional Greece. A white and blue colour palette. An olive tree growing up from the centre of the restaurant. And huge floor to ceiling windows letting in a ton of bright, airy light.
The fresher than freshly made food. I had grilled fish. And a dessert that blew my mind – Greek yoghurt mousse, caramelized pistachios and Kalamata olives
– something I’d never experienced before but would definitely like to experience again.
Sitting upstairs on the mezzanine and getting a prime view of the Masterchef at work in the open kitchen.
Browsing the mini grocery boutique for a little bit of Greek goodness to take home with me. Almonds, pistachios, olives, breadsticks, balsamic vinegar, and of course Kalios olive oil, all produced in Mediterranean sunshine back in Greece.
The bustling, super busy atmosphere. This place is popular and chocka as soon as it opens. So be sure to book ahead, even if you’re thinking of a weekday lunch.
Check out the toilets especially if you are a fan of silent films. wink, wink :)
