EXECUTIVE CHEF

Chef Dante Cecchini is a culinary virtuoso, renowned for his contributions to San Francisco’s eclectic food landscape, now dazzling the palates of San Diego as the Executive Chef of BoujieMana. His approach in the kitchen is a tapestry of inventiveness and zeal, infusing every dish with his distinctive flair.

Cecchini's culinary ethos is anchored in the belief that food is a vehicle for storytelling, with each creation inviting guests to embark on an epicurean odyssey of taste and texture.

Among his signature offerings is the Grilled Sea Bream, an artful composition marrying the simplicity of grilled fish with the freshness of mint and a zesty kick of chili oil—a dish that is quintessential Cecchini. The Hamburger, a menu mainstay, transcends the ordinary, adorned with thick-cut crispy bacon, a house-made garlic aioli, and nestled within a soft pan de mie bun, epitomizing BoujieMana’s luxurious touch.

Away from the culinary stage, Chef Cecchini indulges in his passion for restoring classic Land Rovers, steering these restored icons on off-the-grid escapades through the rugged terrains of Baja.

DIRECTOR OF HOSPITALITY

Tim Houdek has established himself as a venerated figure in the hospitality industry, recognized for his progressive leadership, savvy strategic thinking, and steadfast dedication to excellence. His impressive twenty-year trajectory in the field has significantly influenced the hospitality industry's development.

Tim has made his mark nationally, spearheading the development and successful launch of numerous restaurants across the country. His leadership and expertise have transformed these ventures into acclaimed dining destinations.

With a background rich in variety, Houdek possesses an all-encompassing grasp of the sector, covering both operational execution and strategic business growth. His experience includes notable roles such as Director of Food and Beverage at L’Auberge Del Mar and as a successful Restaurant Owner in Scottsdale.

Beyond his professional pursuits, Houdek is an avid golfer and a fervent supporter of the University of Michigan—"Go Blue!". Tim also relishes wine tasting. His greatest joy comes from spending quality time with friends and family.

GENERAL MANAGER

Gio Morelli stands out as a seasoned and committed leader in the hospitality sector, holding the position of General Manager at Boujiemana. He is driven by a fervent commitment to excellence in service and contributes a rich tapestry of experience to the culinary realm.

With over two decades in the industry, Gio has refined a diverse skill set across various facets of restaurant management. His enthusiasm for crafting a distinctive culinary journey is evident in Boujiemana’s innovative beverage offerings, a testament to his flair for mixology.

Central to Gio’s professional ethos are customer delight, team synergy, and the aspiration to offer a dining experience that surpasses the ordinary.

Gio cherishes moments with his daughter, Capri, and his partner, Amanda. Embracing their shared love for Disney, the trio holds annual passes to an array of theme parks, including SeaWorld, the San Diego Zoo, and the Wild Animal Park. Gio’s profound love for animals earns him the affectionate nickname of a contemporary Ace Ventura.

CAMPUS CHEF

Full Bio Coming Soon!