The Family

Kitty Dare is more than just great food. We provide a space to make memories and take a glimpse into the taste of various Mediterranean cultures.

Jamshad “JAAMY” Zarnegar

— Owner / Wine Director

Jaamy Zarnegars was born and raised in Iran until the age of 12. He moved to the U.S. in 1978 and began his career in restaurants while attending UNC-Greensboro. He fell in love with the industry and moved up quickly. 

Jaamy learned many aspects of the service industry from impeccable mentors in North Carolina, Georgia, and Northern California. In 1993 Jaamy moved to Athens, GA where he became the GM of the famed Last Resort Grill. Six short years later he became co-owner. Athens became a true home to Jaamy and holds a dear place in his heart. 

In December 2020, Jaamy decided to move to a new chapter in his life. He wanted to open a restaurant named after his late friend Kitty Dare Ethridge. Kitty had a huge influence on Jaamy's passion for food and wine, and they shared many fond memories over the years together. Kitty Dare is Jaamy’s first venture on his own and a tribute to his late friend.

GIUSEPPE ESPOSITO

— Executive Chef

Chef Giuseppe Esposito was born in the Emilia region of Northern Italy with his heritage stemming from Napoli in Southern Italy. He went to culinary school for 5 years in Correggio in the province of Reggio Emilia. He has worked in restaurants in his home country of Italy, in England exploring British cuisine, and in Australia (Perth, Melbourne, Sydney and Cairns) working in mostly Asian fusion and European cuisine restaurants. 

Guiseppe moved to the US in 2019. Kitty Dare is his fourth Executive Chef venture.