Riding the wave of an accelerating Atlanta food scene, Yebo Beach Haus welcomes those who wish to taste dishes from the shores of South Africa.
By Alan Fowler
Food invites us to explore the world without leaving our home city. Atlanta has become a particular hotbed for culturally diverse restaurants, all of which provide a taste into the food life of places located across distant lands and seas. Yebo Beach Haus, is a shining example of the continued growth on the Atlanta food scene.
Scrolling the menu of Yebo Beach Haus, it is hard to find one primary reference point of taste or influence…that is because “South African cuisine provides no main staple, just a fusion of many different cultures- Dutch, Mediterranean, French, Indian, you’ve got it all” explains owner Justin Anthony. There is no doubt of this diverse mix, yet each dish seems to stand very well on its own while also partnering with other items, even if the style of each is nothing alike.
Yebo Beach Haus is not the first South African restaurant here in Atlanta. Other restaurants around the city include “Cape Dutch” as well as “Biltong Bar” which recently opened in the new Ponce City Market both owned by Justin Anthony as well. However, Yebo Beach Haus definitely displays its own unique characteristics that extend beyond the menu. The interior design is a wonderful blend of modern style with a relaxed ocean front feel. The ambiance makes you leave the stresses of city life at the door.
There is a sort of abstractness to the menu at Yebo Beach Haus, but any mental confusion that may arise does not carry over to the enjoyment of actually eating. If anything, the lack of a defined tasting origin keeps your senses from forming expectations, and makes the meal that much more dynamic and enjoyable.
Items sampled at Yebo Beach Haus:
Chapman’s Tea: The vermouth and tea dry out any potentially overbearing sweetness and help to form a cocktail that is extremely vibrant on the tongue and seemingly gets better with each sip.
Langoustine Ceviche: A bright citrus splash at first taste, the seafood mixes well with the crisp peppers and this small dish definitely packs a punch.
Peri Peri Chicken Skillet: (Spicy chicken, saffron risotto, diced tomato, sweet peppers, lime) The curry spice provides a quick jolt that smoothes itself out with each bite. Skewers are always fun and shareable, best enjoyed with friends…or you can be selfish and have the experience all your own.
One could go to Yebo each night of the week, and a new tasting experience could be the result each time. Another plus of having so many flavor options to choose from- there is sure to be a dish of interest for everyone in the dining party. The diversity of South African cuisine comes with a touch of unpredictability, as well as an invocation to explore.
