By Susan Swagler Alabama Newscenter Yoâ Mamaâs, a homegrown lunch and brunch place in downtown Birmingham, has long enjoyed a loyal local (and regional) following. Now the eatery has attracted some welcome, timely national attention, too. Yoâ Mamaâs is one of about three dozen restaurants around the country â and the only one in Alabama â to receive a James Beard Foundation (JBF) grant through the organizationâs Food and Beverage Investment Fund for Black and Indigenous Americans. Crystal Peterson, co-owner and the general manager of Yoâ Mamaâs, says they are thrilled with the grant. âItâs really cool to be included in something that is considered so prestigious in the food industry.â