Introduction to Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen
A beloved Houston restaurant is making a comeback, and this time, it’s bigger and better than before. Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen, located in the former Pappadeaux at 2410 Richmond Avenue, is an updated version of Yia Yia Mary’s Mediterranean Kitchen, which closed its doors in June 2020. The new name signifies a more upscale approach, with a focus on seafood, elegant design, and an extensive wine list featuring Greek selections.
A New Era for Pappas Restaurants
The transformation of Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen began with a comprehensive renovation of the former Pappadeaux space. The bar has been relocated to the right of the entrance, and behind it, seats at the oyster bar offer a view into the kitchen. The dining area has also been revamped, with a wall torn down to allow natural light to pour in through the west-facing windows. A family wall honoring the family’s matriarch, Yiayia Mary, has been added, featuring a painting of her and photographs from her life.
Design and Ambiance
The design team at Pappas Restaurants has done an excellent job of creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. The Greek key design element, which represents the "yiayia," has been incorporated into the floor and other parts of the restaurant. The attention to detail is impressive, with inlays in the floor and other subtle touches that make the space feel special. According to Christina Pappas, the chief marketing officer, "What you’re seeing is our design team. They did most of this internally. My sister, Evy Pappas, and her design team are really talented."
Menu and Cuisine
The culinary team at Pappas Restaurants has taken a similar approach to creating a new menu, led by research and development concept chef Michael Fikaris. The menu features both upgraded versions of favorites from Yia Yia Mary’s and an expanded range of seafood offerings, inspired by the success of Little’s Oyster Bar. The goal is to differentiate Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen from other Greek restaurants in Houston, which tend to be more casual. As Christina Pappas notes, "Why don’t we bring a new, different style of Greek dining to the Houston market?"
Seafood and Raw Bar
The oyster bar is a highlight of the restaurant, with a selection of raw seafood dishes that get a Mediterranean twist. Diners can choose from raw oysters with a pomegranate mignonette, Gulf snapper crudo with capers and basil, or cold-boiled shrimp with tarama, a Greek dip made with cured roe. The signature beef and chicken souvlaki remain, but they’re now made with higher-quality proteins and served with blistered tomatoes, pickled fennel, and tzatziki.
Beverages and Wine List
The beverage list at Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen has also been revamped, with a focus on Greek wines and spirits. Executive wine director Robert Smith has created a wine list with almost a full page of Greek white wines, as well as carefully selected red and orange wines from the country. Bartender Oliver Brooks has utilized Greek spirits such as ouzo and mastiha in the restaurant’s cocktails, which include a frozen spritz, a vesper, and a Greek spin on the gin and tonic.
Conclusion
Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen is a welcome addition to the Houston dining scene, offering a unique and upscale take on traditional Greek cuisine. With its elegant design, extensive wine list, and focus on seafood, this restaurant is sure to become a favorite among locals and visitors alike. As Christina Pappas notes, "I think there can be a brunch here. We have an amazing patio. I see room for growth and additional shifts." With its initial dinner service starting on August 1, Yiayia’s Pappas Greek Kitchen is poised to make a lasting impression on the city’s culinary landscape.
