Today we’d like to introduce you to Yaser Khalaf.
Hi Yaser, can you start by introducing yourself? We’d love to learn more about how you got to where you are today.
I started my restaurant venture in my second year of college, I started with a little pizzeria place in Lexington KY.
Although the experience was tough I fall in love with the business. from there I have created quite a few concepts that I am very proud of, Baboush, Medina, Farnatchi, Souk, and of course now Darna!
I’m sure you wouldn’t say it’s been obstacle free, but so far would you say the journey has been a fairly smooth road?
It’s never a smooth road when you do your own business but especially in restaurants! Struggles, of course, you can not have a business without struggles and growing pains. The toughest challenge has been by far staffing, especially after the covid pandemic.
Thanks – so what else should our readers know about Yela Concepts?
Yela Concepts owns and operates a few boutique restaurants. Our latest concept is Darna Mediterranean Eatery + Market. I am working on a few new concepts currently expanding Baboush Mediterranean Mezza & bar to other cities Austin and Houston. Also working on a Modern American bistro for Downtown Denver.
Darna Mediterranean Eatery + Market:
Darna means “our house” in Arabic
Darna is a Euro-Mediterranean bazaar and eatery, that brings North Texans on a cross-cultural culinary journey. Created in 2019 by Yela Concepts Founder Yaser Khalaf, Darna is the celebration of the shops, cafés, street vendors, and bazaars that are such major attractions in the Mediterranean.
Any advice for finding a mentor or networking in general?
Always attend classes or events relevant to your venture. Meet people, talk to everyone, spare nothing to learn, and make friends in your industry. I am amazed at how many business people want to help others so be ready and when it’s time for you to Jump (opportunity), Jump don’t think!!
Contact Info:
- Website: yelaconcepts.com
- Instagram: @yaserkhalaf
