Our Leadership

  • Meet Yamah, our esteemed CEO, Partner, and Chef extraordinaire. Born and raised right here in Shakopee, Yamah's culinary journey began in the heart of his family kitchen, alongside his mom. In 2013, he took his passion for cooking and community to new heights by opening Ariana Bistro in St. Louis Park with his family. The restaurant quickly became a local staple, earning the title of the number one spot in Minnesota for Mediterranean quick-serve and Gyros. Yamah's dedication to cooking delicious food is only rivaled by his commitment to fostering a positive community impact.

  • Introducing Chris, our COO and Partner, a local Edina native with a unique journey. Chris started his professional life in the world of performance automotive companies, focusing on building and maintaining operational infrastructure. What began as a receptionist position evolved into a role directing operations, showcasing Chris's innate ability for team building. His passion for creating strong, cohesive teams is a driving force behind his role at our restaurant.

Our Story

Together, Yamah and Chris form a dynamic duo that extends beyond the kitchen. Their connection began through a shared love for MMA, where they trained side by side for over six years.

Two years ago, Chris joined forces with Yamah at Ariana's and was captivated by Yamah's visionary approach to restaurant culture. The result? Spicy Feta, an embodiment of the ultimate Mediterranean experience, drawing inspiration from Afghan, Turkish, and Greek family recipes.

Infusing every dish with flavor, spice, and love, Yamah and Chris are on a mission to reshape and redefine Quick Serve restaurant culture for both guests and employees alike. Join them on this flavorful journey as they bring a touch of their shared passion to your dining experience.