Newsletter Archive
~ The Whole World's in Our Backyard ~
"The Greeks invented the World Cup. We just let everyone else host it this year." — Yanni, who will not be taking questions
(Greece didn't qualify this year. Yanni remains undefeated in conversation.)
Let's address the obvious: Greece is not in the World Cup this year. We've made our peace with it. Mostly.
But the tournament kicks off Thursday, June 11, hosted right here across the U.S., Mexico, and Canada — and a party this big doesn't need us to have a team in it. The whole world is gathering, the energy is electric, and we're doing what we do best: feeding people well and pouring something worth celebrating.
So here's our lineup for the summer: a new margarita, a Greek special with real roots, and great bar seats in Scripps Ranch. Come celebrate the beautiful game with us. We'll cheer for whoever you're cheering for.
Ask Yanni about it and he'll tell you the Greeks basically invented the World Cup, something about the ancient Olympics, a ball, and a very long oral tradition. Did we make the tournament this year? No. Did we invent the entire concept of competitive sport? According to Yanni, also yes. We're not going to argue with him. You shouldn't either.
The Drink — Watermelon Tamarind Margarita
~ New: The Watermelon Tamarind Margarita ~
We wanted a drink that tasted like this summer. So Max (our bartender) made one.
Meet the Watermelon Tamarind Margarita. Blanco tequila, fresh lime, orange liqueur, real watermelon juice, and a house tamarind syrup — built over ice and finished with a tajín rim that gives every sip a little salt, a little heat, a little magic.
It's sweet, it's tart, it's a touch spicy, and it tastes like a celebration. Honestly, it's basically a love letter to the host countries in a glass, bright Mexican flavors, summer-in-North-America energy, served on a patio under the string lights.
The tournament runs all summer. So does this. Come find out what your new favorite drink tastes like.
Also Back — Black Currant Iced Tea
~ The Black Currant Iced Tea Is Back ~
Not everyone's having a margarita. Some of you are driving. Some of you are pacing yourselves. Some of you just have a 7am that refuses to cancel itself.
Good news: the Black Currant Iced Tea is back. Deep, fruity, refreshing, and zero excuses required. It's the drink that lets you stay for extra time, watch the whole match, and still drive everyone home like a responsible adult. Hydration with a personality.
This Week's Special — Lamb Dolmas
Starting Thursday. Lamb Dolmas.
Tender grape leaves wrapped around seasoned lamb and rice, simmered until everything comes together into one of the oldest, most comforting dishes the Mediterranean has ever produced. This is Greek cooking with real roots — the kind of dish Yanni grew up around, made the way it's supposed to be made.
The world may be watching soccer this summer, but Greece is still showing up to the table. This is the taste of the homeland, and it's only here for the week.
Pour to Pair
Reach for the Three Sticks "Price Family Estates" Pinot Noir, Sonoma Coast 2021 from Yanni's cellar. Ripe dark cherry, raspberry, baking spice, and a touch of forest floor, with silky tannins and bright acidity — a medium-to-full Pinot that's tailor-made for lamb dishes. The 2021 California vintage was an excellent one.
Father's Day Is June 21st. Two Easy Wins.
Looking for a gift? We've got two good ones — a gift card for the full Yanni's night out, or a bottle from Yanni's private collection for the person who takes their wine seriously. Wine pickup available.
