Ya'sou Restaurant

On February 7th, 1945, the Greek-American families of John Genadopoulos and Adamantios “Tommy” and Mary Balasis purchased the A. P. Wood Grocery. Though the store was renamed the West Virginia Grocery, the name A. P. Wood remains etched in beautiful stained glass over the door at present-day Ya’sou Restaurant.
From that time until the devastating flood of July 2001, the family kept the grocery in operation. Ten months later, a second major flood hit the town within days of the business being reopened. Despite this major setback, we were determined to move forward and reopen the business.
Having my own restaurant was a lifelong dream, and on February 7th, 2003, with the help of my mother Mary Balasis, my brothers John and Mathew, my husband Jimmy Joe, my son Adam, my mother-in-law Mary Verduce Gianato, and the Grace of God, that dream became a reality with the opening of Ya’sou Restaurant.
I am very proud of the success that I have achieved. I offer home-cooked meals, daily specials, and Greek cuisine along with many sandwich choices. Most of the recipes I use have been handed down to me from my mother and grandmother. My love for the restaurant business came from my first job at the Virginian Restaurant in Pearisburg, Virginia, working under the guiding hands of, in my opinion, two of the greatest chefs, uncles, and mentors, Mike and George Genadopoulos. It was my days at the Virginian that made me realize I would someday like to become a great chef. I strive for this every day.
This has allowed me to meet many wonderful people who have stopped in along the way, as well as many local regulars who come in and make my day complete. With the continuing support of my nephew Adam, we hope to serve you for many years to come.
Everyone that comes here, even one time, becomes part of the labyrinth of my life and will always be part of the memories here. I want my guests to feel at home and comfortable when they are here. If you have any concerns or requests, please feel free to ask.
—Markella