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The owner of Yanni’s Grill, Ozzy Ochoa, brings something unique to Iowa by combining foods from Italy and Greece. Ochoa grew up in New York City, and while there he worked at a big, Italian-style restaurant called Angelo’s. It was founded in the early 1900s and has become a hot spot for locals.

While working at Angelo’s, Ochoa was approached by a man of Greek descent from Des Moines who gave him an offer to work in Des Moines. Ochoa accepted the offer in 1996 and moved to Des Moines with his family.

In New York City, Ochoa worked for an Italian restaurant while his brother worked for a restaurant with Greek cuisine. They managed to bring the two cultures together, and that is what led to Yanni’s Grill. 

The first location that opened was at Clocktower Square in West Des Moines, but they eventually made their permanent location in Ankeny.

Once the business was established, Yanni’s started making appearances at festivals. Since then, Ochoa has made it a tradition to participate in the World Food and Music Festival. This event started with only 15 vendors and has expanded to over 50.

Ochoa said he enjoys being a part of the festival and hopes to continue participating in the future.

“We keep doing it because it’s a way to promote Yanni’s and a way to learn about the community,” Ochoa said.

During the World Food and Music Festival, long lines were formed to get chicken on a stick or gyros at Yanni’s Grill. The festival serves as a preview of what to anticipate when walking into one of the restaurants any other day of the year.

People can experience the taste and uniqueness Yanni’s Grill has to offer, whether that is at their truck or in their restaurant.

“We want people to experience the taste and uniqueness we have,” Ochoa said. “Everything is made from scratch, and I’m the guy who puts all of the recipes together. I make my homemade gnocchi and homemade parmigiana. I also do the dressings, tiramisu — pretty much all of the desserts. I learned from the teachings of the old Italian guys, so I am still sticking to the old way.”

Diners can experience Ochoa and his brother’s food Tuesday through Sunday at Yanni’s Grill located at 410 S. Ankeny Blvd in Ankeny.