Scott Boles is a seasoned culinary entrepreneur and hospitality leader whose career spans over four decades. As the founder and visionary behind Yabo’s Tacos—a fast-casual restaurant redefining Americana cuisine through inventive taco creations—Scott has combined his deep-rooted passion for food with a commitment to community and mentorship. His personal motto, “friends helping friends,” encapsulates his approach to business and leadership, emphasizing collaboration, empathy, and shared success.
Scott’s journey into the culinary world began in his youth, inspired by family meals and the joy of cooking. He honed his skills in some of Boston’s finest restaurants, mastering both front-of-house service and back-of-house operations. His dedication and talent led him to work with Disney Executives, where he opened fine dining establishments and learned the intricacies of high-volume, high-quality food service. These experiences laid the foundation for his future endeavors, instilling in him a deep understanding of the hospitality industry’s demands and opportunities.
After years of working in various kitchens and turning around struggling restaurants and resorts across the United States, Scott envisioned a new dining concept that would reflect his diverse culinary experiences. In 2010, he launched Yabo’s Tacos in Ohio, aiming to create a fast-casual restaurant that offered “Americana flavors in a taco shell.” Unlike traditional Mexican or Tex-Mex eateries, Yabo’s Tacos features tacos filled with regional American flavors—such as North Carolina pulled pork, Kansas City-style short ribs, and Louisiana-inspired fish and chicken—offering a unique and eclectic menu that resonates with a broad audience.
Scott’s innovative approach to cuisine quickly garnered attention and acclaim. His commitment to freshness—eschewing microwaves and frozen ingredients in favor of cooking everything from scratch—set Yabo’s Tacos apart in the competitive restaurant landscape. The restaurant’s signature margaritas, aged for a week to achieve a smooth, mellow flavor, became legendary among patrons. This dedication to quality and creativity earned Scott the Grand Prize in Easy Ice’s Experts Express! competition, judged by celebrity chef Robert Irvine, who recognized Scott’s thoughtful business practices and culinary innovation.
Under Scott’s leadership, Yabo’s Tacos expanded to multiple locations across Ohio, including Westerville, Powell, Hilliard, and Lewis Center. Each restaurant reflects Scott’s vision of a welcoming, community-oriented space where guests can enjoy inventive meals in a casual, sports-bar atmosphere. The Lewis Center location, for example, features a hybrid service model with a full-service bar accessible from both the interior and the patio, catering to diverse customer preferences and adapting to changing dining trends.
Beyond his culinary achievements, Scott is deeply committed to team building and employee development. He believes in hiring individuals with passion and cultivating their skills through coaching and mentorship. By encouraging staff to share their favorite menu items with guests, Scott fosters a sense of ownership and enthusiasm among his team, enhancing the overall dining experience. His emphasis on creating a fun and supportive work environment has contributed to low staff turnover and high employee satisfaction.
Scott’s leadership extends beyond his restaurants into the broader community. He has served on numerous nonprofit boards, leveraging his expertise to support various causes and initiatives. His involvement in these organizations reflects his belief in giving back and helping others succeed. Scott’s ability to connect with like-minded individuals and his diverse professional background make him a valuable asset to any board or committee seeking experienced, empathetic leadership.
In addition to his professional pursuits, Scott enjoys teaching cooking classes, sharing his knowledge and passion for food with others. These classes allow him to engage with the community, inspire aspiring chefs, and promote the joy of cooking. Scott’s approachable teaching style and wealth of experience make his classes both informative and enjoyable, further solidifying his role as a mentor and leader in the culinary world.
Scott’s personal interests include golf, darts, and playing cards—activities that reflect his appreciation for camaraderie, strategy, and friendly competition. These hobbies provide balance to his professional life and offer opportunities to build relationships outside the workplace. Scott’s well-rounded lifestyle underscores his belief in the importance of connecting with others and enjoying life’s simple pleasures.
As Scott looks to the future, he remains focused on expanding Yabo’s Tacos through franchising, bringing his unique culinary vision to new markets. He is also eager to continue serving on boards and committees where he can contribute his insights and experience to support organizational growth and success. Scott’s unwavering commitment to excellence, innovation, and community engagement positions him as a dynamic leader poised to make a lasting impact in the food and hospitality industries.
Character:
Scott exemplifies integrity and compassion in all his endeavors, fostering a culture of mutual respect and support within his teams. His “friends helping friends” philosophy permeates his leadership style, emphasizing collaboration and community.
Knowledge:
With over 40 years of experience in the culinary and hospitality sectors, Scott possesses a deep understanding of restaurant operations, menu development, and customer service. His hands-on expertise informs his strategic decisions and innovative approaches to dining.
Strategic:
Scott’s visionary thinking has driven the successful expansion of Yabo’s Tacos, adapting to market trends and consumer preferences. His ability to anticipate industry shifts and implement effective solutions demonstrates his strategic acumen.
Communication:
An effective communicator, Scott engages with employees, customers, and stakeholders with clarity and authenticity. His approachable demeanor and active listening skills foster strong relationships and open dialogue.
