At the heart of Yala Greek Ice Cream is Papou, our founder’s grandfather, George Minadakis—a Greek immigrant whose life embodied love, pride and an unrelenting commitment to making things to the best. From the village of Arkasa on the Greek island of Karpathos to building a new life in America, Papou’s journey was defined by hard work, grit, courage and a belief in doing everything the right way.

Papou’s legacy is the soul of our craft. He taught us to take pride in every detail—to make everything “the best,” no shortcuts. He believed that the most meaningful moments were shared around a table, with love and generosity. That same spirit now inspires every scoop of Yala Greek Ice Cream.

Using farm-fresh milk and premium ingredients sourced from Greece, the Mediterranean and the world’s finest producers, we handcraft each batch with care and heart—because we’re not just making ice cream. We’re honoring Papou.

Everything at Yala Greek Ice Cream reflects his values: philoxenia (welcoming others with warmth), philotimo (a sense of honor and responsibility) and an unwavering commitment to his roots and his family. It’s why Yala Greek Ice Cream will always be Fresh, Greek, Better.

Papou taught us that the best things in life are made with love, shared with family and crafted for others. Yala Greek Ice Cream carries his legacy—because he wasn’t just our inspiration. He’s the reason we strive to be simply the best, always.

Welcome to the Yala Greek family. This is Papou’s gift to us and to you.