According to a recent article from Chicago Food Magazine, Cafe Yaya aims to debut in Lincoln Park at 2431 N Lincoln Avenue.
“Cafe Yaya, the next concept from James Beard Foundation award-winning Chef Zach Engel and Partner Andrés Clavero, is set to open this winter in the heart of Lincoln Park at 2431 N Lincoln Ave.,” a press release sent to What Now Chicago states.
“Located right next to sister restaurant Galit, Cafe Yaya will be an all-day dining and event destination for the neighborhood that allows Chef Zach and the team more freedom to showcase their creativity beyond the boundaries of Galit’s tasting menu. Cafe Yaya initially will offer a selection of morning pastries and an a la carte dinner menu, then expand to serve lunch, brunch, and takeout.”
“Gleaned from the vibrant sidewalk bistros of Tel Aviv and Paris, Cafe Yaya will become a place for everyone to go at any time of day. With a pastry program led by long-time Galit Pastry Chef Mary Eder-McClure, guests can start their mornings with savory bourekas, crispy sweet baklava, challah, and more, paired with a distinctive coffee selection from Sparrow Coffee Roastery.”
“The dinner menu will feature elements of French, Jewish, Southern, Middle Eastern and Midwestern cooking, a reflection of Chef Zach’s travels and upbringing. Guests will enjoy a convenient counter-service model, which allows them to place their orders at the front before being seated.”
“We all need a bit more community in our lives these days,” states Chef Zach Engel in the press release. “Cafe Yaya aims to feel like a home away from home, a comforting environment where old friends and neighbors can connect and share life’s joyous moments and break bread together. We have always been about nurturing a sense of community at Galit. By purchasing the building next door, we’re excited to deepen our roots in this neighborhood that has supported us from the beginning.”
“Helmed by Scott Stroemer, Cafe Yaya’s beverage program will break from Galit’s and its lauded Middle Eastern wine list. Stroemer intends to highlight the relationships forged with independent winemakers from other overlooked regions, including Chinon, Sonoma, and South America.”
“An extensive by-the-glass selection of these affordable options intends to more easily connect patrons to those talented vintners. Guests can also expect well-made classic cocktails complemented by a selection of seasonally-driven spirit-free options.”
