Nothing beats the heat quite like a scoop of ice cream. The frozen treat lends a needed sweetness to the summer months, but a DC entrepreneur is preparing to prove just how transcendent the dish is. Chrys Kefalas is bringing a brand-new concept called Yala Greek Ice Cream to Georgetown this year, and the shop is certain to delight locals all year long.
Kefalas plans to radically reinvent the public’s perception of ice cream at Yala’s 3143 North Street NW home. He states in a press release provided to What Now DC: “Just like Greek yogurt changed everything, Greek Ice Cream is going to set the new standard for ice cream.”
Yala will be opening this July, and its debut date could not be more on point (or intentional). The shop’s grand opening will be July 20, which sweet enthusiasts will recognize as National Ice Cream Day. The opening will be the culmination of a week-long celebration welcoming the new concept.
Yala’s ice cream will combine precise preparation techniques with premium ingredients. Described as having a “uniquely creamy texture and bright, bold flavors that really pop”, the chilly treats will come in a variety of both American and Greek flavors. Guests will be able to enjoy scoops of familiar favorites like vanilla and cookies and cream alongside more unexpected Mediterranean options including Pistachio Odyssey, Yia Mas (Greek yogurt with wild cherries), Kataifi (Baklava ice cream), and Yia Yia’s Karamela (burnt caramel with Greek sea salt.
Yala’s will offer plenty of opportunity for customization, certain to keep fans from ever growing bored. The press release explains: “Ice cream will be served in hand-piped scoops, waffle cones or pints. Available toppings include cherry preserves, orange preserves, apricot preserves, Mediterranean chocolate, Greek chocolate cookie crumbs and Greek honey.”
While the cuisine is certain to make the concept stand out from the competition, as with every great dining experience, Yala’s mission is rooted in passion and love for community. Kefalas states: “For us, it isn’t just about ice cream, it’s about making my Papou, my grandfather, proud. This is our legacy and we can’t wait to share it with Washington, DC and with America.”
