Artisanal ice cream in D.C. is nothing new, but Chrys Kefalas is confident his upcoming shop, Yala Greek Ice Cream (3143 N Street NW), will introduce flavors and textures the city hasn’t experienced before.
Hailing from the Greek island of Rhodes, Kefalas credits his ice cream’s unique creamy yet light texture to traditional techniques and the careful sourcing of premium ingredients—from farm-fresh cream to Mediterranean staples. The ice cream’s base boasts a perfectly balanced milk, cream, and sugar ratio, ensuring a dessert that’s indulgent but never overly sweet.
The shop’s name, Yala, means “milk” in Greek (pronounced like gála), but also nods to the Arabic expression “let’s go,” honoring the shared Middle Eastern influences in Greek flavors such as pistachios, mint, and phyllo.
Yala’s flavor lineup features Greek classics like baklava and cherry with chocolate chunks, alongside American favorites like rocky road and cookies and cream. Vegan strawberry sorbet and several frozen Greek yogurt options—which Kefalas says taste distinctly different from typical frozen yogurt—will also be offered.
Kefalas’ inspiration runs deep. Growing up in a Greek American family, summers were spent in Rhodes enjoying authentic island ice cream. To pay tribute, Yala’s décor features a cartoon of his papou (grandfather), whose hard work running Baltimore’s iconic Costas Inn and Jimmy’s Famous Seafood inspired Kefalas’s dedication to quality and hospitality.
Now living in D.C. with husband and local radio personality Tommy McFly, Kefalas hopes Yala will embody his grandfather’s spirit—bringing joy to the community one scoop at a time.
Yala Greek Ice Cream is set to open on National Ice Cream Day, Sunday, July 20—ready to offer Georgetown a fresh taste of Rhodes.
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