When it comes to dining out, the focus is often on the food menu rather than the beverage options. However, selecting the right drink to pair with a meal can greatly enhance the overall dining experience. At Puma Yu’s, a wine and cocktail bar located in Athens‘ historic Southern Mill complex, the focus is on both the food and the drinks. Open for lunch and dinner, Puma Yu’s offers a unique dining experience that combines small plate Thai food with creative and delicious beverage options.
Puma Yu’s has been a staple in the Athens dining scene for the past two years, but its roots go back even further. Chef Pete Amadhanirundr and mixologist Ally Smith originally started Puma Yu’s as a pop-up concept, serving their cuisine-and-cocktail pairings at various locations around Athens. Their innovative approach to food and drink quickly gained a following, and Chef Pete was even named a semi-finalist for the prestigious James Beard award for Best Chef: Southeast in 2024.
For lunch service at Puma Yu’s, guests can order food and drinks at the bar and find a seat either inside or on the covered patio. The lunch menu offers a variety of options, with salads starting at $10 and noodle and stir fry dishes starting at $15. The stir fry dishes feature beef or pork, as well as a vegetarian tofu option made with spicy bean paste.
While Puma Yu’s is known for its wine and cocktail offerings, the alcohol-free options are equally impressive. During a recent visit for a „liquid lunch,“ the Banner-Herald sampled two of Puma Yu’s alcohol-free cocktails: the Sun Sour and the Ghia Spritz. Priced at $9 each, these drinks were a refreshing and flavorful alternative to traditional alcoholic beverages. The Sun Sour, made with watermelon, pineapple, lemongrass, agave, and turmeric, was sweet and rich, while the Ghia Spritz, featuring Ghia and other zero-proof ingredients, was light and fizzy.
In addition to the alcohol-free cocktails, Puma Yu’s also offers a selection of other non-alcoholic beverages, including Kyle’s limeade, Athletic Golden Ale, Ginger’s Bunkhouse, sparkling water, and Coke products. With a focus on creativity and quality, Puma Yu’s ensures that even those who choose not to drink alcohol can enjoy a delicious and satisfying beverage with their meal.
Overall, Puma Yu’s is a must-visit destination for those looking for a unique dining experience in Athens. Whether you’re in the mood for small plate Thai food, creative cocktails, or refreshing non-alcoholic beverages, Puma Yu’s has something for everyone. Next time you’re dining out with friends or colleagues, consider adding a visit to Puma Yu’s to your plans for a memorable and enjoyable meal.