Friend Of Graza: Andia Xouris
The Grand Master Ice Cream Chef on unexpected ice-cream flavor combinations, what cooking means to her, and how her Greek roots inspire her craft!
Q: How would you describe yourself?
A: As a person who is passionate about spreading love through ice cream and home-cooked meals. I am also deeply intense and intentional by nature.
Q: Finish this sentence, cooking for me is….
A: How I show my love for others, and immensely therapeutic.
Q: What does it mean to you to be the only female Grand Master Ice Cream Chef in the South and Southeast regions of the US?
A: It proves to me that anything is possible. If you set your mind to it and take action, you can achieve your wildest dreams!
Q: Any flavors combo you keep coming back to?
A: Rose Pistachio is my all-time favorite. It’s inspired by the flavors of Cyprus, where my family is from. The base is homemade rosewater (from steeping rose petals and buds in milk) and is studded with chopped roasted pistachios. Floral and refreshingly delicious!
Q: Is there a flavor combo you didn’t expect to like but did? Is there a flavor you thought you would love but didn’t?
A: I was shocked by how much I love our Mango Jalapeño Margarita, which won Best New Flavor in 2024 from the prestigious North American Ice Cream Association. I don’t love super-sweet flavors, so I try to avoid them and steer towards savory inspirations.
Q: How do your Cypriot roots and your father’s food-distribution background influence the flavors you choose or the way you run your business today?
A: I feel very inspired by my Greek/Cypriot roots and use various Mediterranean and Middle Eastern spices and ingredients in my craft. People connect through culture and family, so using family and friends' recipes is an easy way to show support.
Q: What is something that we can always find in your kitchen or pantry?
A: Olive oil! I love EVOO, and Graza is a staple in my house.
Q: Any words of wisdom, quotes, or mottos you live by?
A: My favorite motto that I live by is “The best is yet to be”, which I have plastered everywhere as a reminder to keep going.
Q: Outside of your business, what are ways you find joy or recharge?
A: Through cooking and spending time with my family and good friends. I am blessed to have a wonderful circle of inspiring people who help me be the best version of myself.
Q: What’s on the horizon for you?
A: Lots of exciting new things are coming next year, and I can’t wait to be able to share them with everyone. Stay tuned by following me on Instagram at @just.andia for more!
