It was National Ice Cream Day and a new ice cream parlor was opening in Georgetown. The lines were long and the day was hot, but it was worth it. Yala Greek Ice Cream is like no other.

Chrys Kefalas is the owner of Yala (the name translates to “milk”). Chrys is a Greek-American whose grandfather emigrated to the United States in the 70s. His grandfather, affectionately called Papao, was well known in the restaurant scene in Baltimore. Papao’s commitment to quality, his whole ethos, permeates Yala. Chrys’ love of Greek ice cream goes back to when he was a child and encountered it on the island of Rhodes. His goal is to bring that style to America. And the ingredients as well, all of which, including the milk, are sourced from the Mediterranean.

Menu

While there are over a dozen flavors on the menu, what makes the ice cream Greek is the base. The ice cream is made from milk sourced from the Mediterranean and churned to a consistency similar to Gelato. Indeed, the first item on the menu is their vanilla, called Papou’s Promise, named after the grandfather who inspired the owner.

Other Greek influenced flavors are: Pistachio Odyssey, Yasou Dubai (described below), Kataifi (a take on a pastry similar to Baklava), Americanaki Cookie (cookies and cream with Greek cookies), plus two yogurt flavors: Yia Mas (with wild cherries), and Mornings with Thea (with orange preserves). Other flavors include Choco-Yala, Yiayia’s Karamela (Grandma’s carmel), and Black Cherry Opa! Note that featured flavors cost $2.00 extra.

My choice

Yala’s ice cream comes in three sizes: Mikro (small) Metrio (Just Right), and Megalo (Large). I decided to get the Metrio, which provides up to two flavors. I chose Choco-Cherry and one of the featured flavors, Yasou Dubai. Yasou Dubai has a chocolate base with pistachios, tahini, shredded filo, and a chocolate drizzle mixed in. The chocolate ice cream is excellent – rich, creamy, and with a deep chocolate flavor. Unfortunately, the chocolate is so strong it overpowers the other ingredients. I found the chocolate base worked much better with the cherry, which also has a strong taste. Therefore, I recommend the Choco-Cherry.

Atmosphere

There was advertisements all over the radio and, so I’ve hear, social media. So it was not a surprise that the lines were long. And, as I mention above, it was hot! Thankfully, one of the staff was handing out fans and cups of water. At least, I thought he was staff. Turns out he is the husband of the owner and was just helping out. Regardless, his kindness was much appreciated.

As it was so busy, I did not interact much with the staff at the counter. They did a good job of dealing with the large crowds, serving people quickly and answering questions without rush. Overall, the atmosphere was quite festive. As for seating, there’s not much space inside. There are several tables outside. I was able to get one (thanks to the kindness of the photographer), but most people were eating to go.

With great ice cream and a friendly atmosphere, I plan on visiting Yala again soon.