When Yarad Desalegn opened Zachary’s Steak House on Valentine’s Day this year at the top of State Street in Downtown Bristol, it was the culmination of two separate dreams – Yarad’s and the American.
Yarad is an interesting guy. He was born in Ethiopia, where, with some training in food and beverage, he earned a spot at the Ambassador Dining Room and worked there for many years. He met such notables as Jimmy Carter, Madeleine Albright, and Jesse Jackson.
In 2001 Yarad moved to the US, specifically Washington D.C. with, as he says, “not a penny to my name, but God was with me.” His American pedigree begins with a stint at Mister Smith’s in Georgetown followed by five years at the Ritz Carlton in Atlanta and then the Intercontinental in Buckhead.
As he says, “I appreciate the USA.” The bug of the American Dream bit him and he moved to the Tri-Cities, first owning a gas station, and then, four years later in 2010, Yarad opened Zachary’s Steak House in Colonial Heights. With six successful years under his belt, he took the plunge and opened Zachary’s Steak House in Bristol. Little did he know in 2010 when he named his business after his yet unborn son that he would be realizing the American Dream in 2017.
Dedication to quality ingredients, excellent preparation and first rate service is paying dividends for both Yarad and his ever-growing clientele. Visit either of his locations and see for yourself. Oh, and if you have room, he has some delectable desserts too!
