Yamas Meze & Tapas
Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
A vibrant Mediterranean restaurant in Nottingham's city centre serving authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze and tapas. Established in 2008, Yamas specializes in sharing-style small plates bursting with genuine flavors, generous portions, and excellent value. The warm, inviting interior combines modern elegance with rustic charm, creating an atmosphere perfect for casual meals with friends or special celebrations. Known for attentive service, an impressive wine selection featuring Greek and Cypriot varieties, and exceptional lunch deals.
A brief summary to Yamas Meze & Tapas
- 5 Thurland St, Nottingham, NG1 3DR, GB
- +441159501000
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Indoor
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
- Wednesday 12 pm-9 pm
- Thursday 12 pm-9 pm
- Friday 12 pm-9 pm
- Saturday 12 pm-9 pm
- Sunday 1 pm-8 pm
Local tips
- Book ahead, especially for weekend evenings and larger groups. The restaurant fills quickly, and walk-ins may face long waits or unavailable seating.
- Visit during lunch hours (Wednesday–Friday, 12:00–14:00) to experience the exceptional value of the three-dish mezze special at under £11 per person in a lively but manageable atmosphere.
- Explore the Greek and Cypriot wine selection—staff are knowledgeable and can recommend pairings that enhance the mezze experience far beyond standard restaurant offerings.
- Order mezze and tapas dishes for sharing rather than individual mains; the portions are generous and the variety allows everyone at the table to sample multiple flavors.
- Allow adequate time for your meal, particularly during busy periods. The kitchen cooks to order, ensuring freshness, but this means waits between courses are normal and worthwhile.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Yamas Meze & Tapas location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
Discover more about Yamas Meze & Tapas
A Mediterranean Tradition Rooted in Nottingham
Yamas Meze & Tapas has been a cornerstone of Nottingham's dining scene since 2008, dedicated to recreating the warmth and communal spirit of Greek and Cypriot households. The name itself—meaning abundance in Greek—perfectly captures the philosophy behind the restaurant: generous portions, heartfelt hospitality, and the joy of sharing food with loved ones. Located on Thurland Street in the city centre, Yamas has become a beloved destination for those seeking authentic Mediterranean cuisine without pretension.The Art of Sharing: Small Plates, Big Flavors
The mezze and tapas concept at Yamas invites diners to explore a diverse array of small plates designed for sharing. From crispy tirokroketes (Greek cheese balls) and perfectly cooked pinchos de pollo (chicken and chorizo skewers) to fresh village salads and delicate spanakopitta (spinach and feta pastries), each dish showcases carefully selected ingredients and traditional Mediterranean techniques. The kitchen demonstrates particular skill with seafood, offering marinated prawns, calamari with light, crispy batter, and fresh scallops. Vegetarian and vegan options are thoughtfully integrated throughout the menu, ensuring all diners find something to celebrate.Exceptional Value and Lunchtime Treasures
Yamas has earned a reputation for offering remarkable value, particularly during lunchtime hours. The signature lunch special—three mezze dishes for under £11—attracts students, professionals, and families alike. This generous offering allows diners to sample multiple dishes without overwhelming their palates or their budgets. Even main courses, such as chicken gyros served with chips and fresh salad, remain accessible at under £10. The full mezze experience at dinner, priced around £24 per person, delivers multiple courses of beautifully presented dishes, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a special occasion without excessive expense.Atmosphere and Design: Modern Elegance Meets Rustic Warmth
The interior of Yamas reflects careful attention to creating an inviting space that feels both refined and comfortable. Earthy tones, stylish ambient lighting, and Mediterranean-inspired artwork establish a relaxed yet uplifting environment. Tables are thoughtfully arranged to balance intimacy with a sense of communal energy—the restaurant buzzes with the happy chatter of diners enjoying their meals. Quality cutlery, neatly folded napkins, and bottles of olive oil at each table signal the care invested in the dining experience. Despite the restaurant's popularity and frequent busyness, the space never feels cramped or unwelcoming.Beverages and the Wine Program
Yamas distinguishes itself through an impressive selection of Greek and Cypriot wines, a rarity in most restaurants. The wine list caters to both seasoned enthusiasts and casual drinkers, with staff knowledgeable enough to guide selections. Greek rose wines receive particular praise for their quality and character. The cocktail program and beer selection further complement the Mediterranean theme, though consistency in execution has occasionally varied.Service Philosophy and Hospitality
The staff at Yamas embodies genuine warmth and attentiveness. Servers greet guests with friendly acknowledgment, inquire about dietary requirements and allergies, and ensure tables are well cared for throughout the meal. The pacing of courses is thoughtfully managed to avoid overwhelming diners, with bread baskets refreshed as needed. During busy periods, the kitchen prioritizes quality over speed, and while waits can extend to 50 minutes for main courses, the results justify the patience. Staff remain courteous and engaged even when the restaurant reaches capacity.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Authentic Greek and Cypriot mezze in Nottingham's vibrant city centre—sharing plates, Mediterranean flavors, exceptional value.
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Casual
- Romantic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
- Bohemian Styles
For the architecture buff
- Modern
- Art & Design
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Colorful Backdrops
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- LGBT Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
