Yoleni's Philippides Shares Different Approaches to Greek Cuisine on LIVE
Yoleni's Philippides Shares Different Approaches to Greek Cuisine on LIVE
The original restaurant and marketplace serving traditional Greek cuisine and products stands in Athens, Greece. It was almost a year ago that Philippides and his family opened their second location, right here in Providence.
“We wanted to introduce two types of Greek cuisine. One is the more cafe during the day, where you can get anything on the spot. The other side is more smart, fine-dining style of food.”
Yoleni’s utilizes its space on Westminster Street for a variety of offerings. To start, their casual cafe specializes in lunch items such as wraps, salads, coffee, pastry, and an imported Greek yogurt bar.
“We make our own dough for our pita pockets fresh. We have eight flavors for the wraps as well as sweet flavors like apple pie and chocolate. We have managed to get these out of the oven within four to five minutes, so it is quick,” says Philippides.
On the flip side, Yoleni’s also offers a more formal sit-down style area for dinner.
“Here we have slow cooked orzo, with beef, celery, and carrots. We have foods from different locations of Greece. These areas are very unique, and take pride in their cuisine,” says Philippides. Pair any of their dinner items from a choosing of a selection of Greek wines.
To complete the package, Yoleni’s carries over five hundred imported Greek goods in their designated marketplace area. Produce, assorted nuts and dried fruits, olive oils and canned goods are just naming a few. Philippides and his family traveled throughout Greece to hand select which items would be carried in their store, “We traveled around Greece and meet the producers, who can be very picky. They want to know you before they support you with their product. It is more than making money for them, it is about making sure you will take care of it.”
To maximize their use of space, Philippides announces the introduction of live music at Yoleni’s, as well as an upcoming brunch menu. “We are looking forward to having brunch with music, and we have the space for dancing.”
Follow Yoleni’s on Instagram at @Yolenisusa and visit their website for information on upcoming wine tastings, reservations, and events.