COASTE | FOODIES
For Ryan Kida, Yabo is “the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” Originally from New Jersey, Kida was only a young boy when he moved to Sanibel and struck a friendship with Sean Woods, a friendship prompted from their mutual appreciation of music. Both secured jobs working in local restaurants that over time, helped hone Kida’s cooking expertise. At the same time, Kida’s appreciation for music prompted him to invest in recording equipment and complete studies in audio engineering. Some years ago, he produced and recorded an album of alternative blues.
In his lifetime of working restaurants and loving music, Kida has found a way to combine his passions for good food, good music and good company — a combination that’s proven to resonate with an ever- expanding base of fans that flock to Yabo for both the Yabo is “the fulfillment of a lifelong dream.” menu and the music. In fact, Yabo attracts patrons of all generations — young adult professionals, couples and groups; a smattering of families; a healthy array of baby boomers; but also, Kida says, seniors who prefer to spend a night out rocking to music as opposed to sitting in a rocking chair.
Business partner Brad Thompson says his goal is to provide Yabo’s customers with an up-close, ear pleasing encounter of genuine musical talent — and some touring acts that previously bypassed Fort Myers are appearing now because of Yabo. At the same time, Thompson says Yabo is proud to serve as a venue for homegrown talent — from local runner-ups of “The Voice” to acts such as the Pit Bull of Blues Band, winner of the 2013 Southwest Florida Blues Society Challenge.
But Yabo’s menu is always the headline act and with Kida rocking the kitchen, you’re sure to find something you’ll love — beef, veal, seafood, pastas, salads and more, including standing ovations entrees such as Kong
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