While 2021 was a year of recovery for many restaurateurs, for Memphis Garrett – founder and President of Garrett Hospitality Group (GHG) and Big Brother reality star – 2021 signaled a year of growth. With multiple outposts of his Point Break Poke House and Blue Wave Sushi concepts, followed by the highly-anticipated opening of cocktail parlor/eatery No Man’s Land, Garrett could have kicked back for the remainder of the year. Yet instead, the hospitality powerhouse has just announced he will open Ya Mas!, a chic, rustic taverna showcasing fresh Mediterranean fare. The indoor/outdoor eatery will officially open to the public on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at 1103 East Las Olas Boulevard in Fort Lauderdale.
Meaning “Cheers” in Greek, Ya Mas! will live up to its name and transport guests to a lively taverna found on Mykonos or Santorini where an upbeat vibe, friendly service and superb cuisine prevail. Seating 85, the 3,000 square feet indoor/outdoor space was designed by Garrett himself. Upon approaching the restaurant on the east end of Las Olas Boulevard, the spirit of the Mediterranean beckons with a bougainvillea covered patio, white banquettes and a pergola roof. Inside, natural and organic elements blend effortlessly with shades of white and pops of color to create a stylishly-minimalistic modern aesthetic. White washed floors and banquettes, a honed quartz bar, blue and white ceramic tiles and a long communal natural wood table work together to create a cozy chic ambiance. Rattan and beaded chandeliers, teak and wicker chairs with caning details, and an accent wall depicting Greek God statues complete the look.
Under the direction of GHG Executive Chef Austin Blake, the dinner menu at Ya Mas! will reflect the flavors of the Mediterranean, showcasing classic dishes and modern interpretations from Turkey, Greece, Israel and more. Small Plates include Artichokes with vegan tzatziki and oregano breadcrumb; crispy Falafel; Fried Feta with local honey and pistachio; and Turkish Muhammara – a sweet and earthy dip made with pomegranate molasses, red bell peppers, and walnuts. Flights of hummus and tzatziki will also be on offer and perfect for dipping the fresh baked pita. Medium Plates include Mussels with nduja, white wine and sundried tomato, Farro Salad with sundried tomato and herbs; Lamb Meatballs with feta crumble; and Harissa Buffalo Wings. Large dishes include Whole Branzino with sauce bourdetto and Greek potatoes; Pan Seared Salmon with tabbouleh and herbed yogurt, steaks, lamb and more. Guests can also curate their own Mezze Platter with an array seafood, meats, spreads and sides, perfect to enjoy family-style.
The cocktail and wine program are helmed by the talented Beverage Director Chevy Farrell. Guests can enjoy creative cocktails, inspired by summers on the Med, including the Fig Old Fashioned – fig-infused bourbon, Demerara syrup, Angostura and orange biters and the Santorini Sour – a refreshing rum and basil concoction served in a coupe glass with a frothy foam head. Ya Mas! will also feature an array of Spritzes such as the Sevilla Sunset – Tanqueray Sevilla Orange, Ramazzotti Amaro and Pellegrino Blood Orange
and the St. Tropez – Ketel One Grapefruit Rose, Pamplemousse Grapefruit Cordial and Sparkling Wine. Spritzes are also available in large formats, perfect for sharing. Red, white, sparkling, and rosé Sangrias will also be on offer, along with beers and wines inspired by the region.
Ya Mas! will open to the public on Tuesday, February 1, 2022 at 1103 East Las Olas Boulevard. The restaurant will serve dinner seven nights a week from 5PM – 11PM and will serve cocktails until 1AM on Friday and Saturday. For additional information and reservations please visit yamastaverna.com.
Stay up to date on Instagram and Facebook at @yamastavernaftl
For information on other GHG concepts, please visit www.garretthospitalitygroup.
Images and interviews are available upon request.
Lauren Busch | Marel Hinners
Brustman Carrino Public Relations
bcpr@brustmancarrinopr.com
305.573.0658
