One of Houston’s most talked-about sandwich pop-ups is about to get a permanent home. Yuma, the Brazilian- and Cuban-inspired concept from chef Mike Hartley and co-owner Miriam Leek-Meira, will open its first brick-and-mortar restaurant this Friday, June 26 at 4219 Washington Avenue, taking over the former Ninja Ramen space.
Since launching as a pop-up, Yuma has built a loyal following for its creative take on the Cuban sandwich, blending Brazilian flavors and ingredients with Caribbean influences and plenty of Houston flair.
The concept is a reflection of both owners’ backgrounds. Hartley, who previously served as executive sous-chef at River Oaks staple Brasserie 19 and co-owned the catering and provisions company MMH Provisions, brings a chef-driven approach to the menu, emphasizing scratch-made ingredients and house-baked bread. Leek-Meira draws inspiration from her Brazilian upbringing, highlighting flavors and regional dishes that extend far beyond the churrascarias most Americans associate with the country’s cuisine.
Together, the husband-and-wife team have transformed the Cuban sandwich into a vehicle for exploring the culinary traditions of Brazil, the Caribbean and Houston. The new Washington Avenue restaurant will allow the team to expand beyond its popular sandwiches with a larger menu of bar bites, desserts, specialty cocktails, and rotating collaborations.
The 1,400-square-foot space has been reimagined with updated interiors and artwork created by family members, while preserving select design elements from Ninja Ramen…