About

Our Name

'Boujie' symbolizes our appreciation for the refined and the allure of upscale dining.

'Mana' embodies the God authored provision and feeling of gratitude and satisfaction that good food creates among people.

We hope you enjoy your dining experience at BoujieMana!

Meet the Team

  • Dante

    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.

  • Tim

    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.

  • Nikki

    CAMPUS CHEF

    Full Bio Coming Soon!

Samer Khouli

A word from the Owner

"As we unveil BoujieMana, our vision extends beyond mere dining; we aspire to cultivate a sense of belonging where each meal transforms into a celebration of exquisite taste, artistic expression, and meaningful human connections. This restaurant is the epitome of 'boujie' – it encapsulates my journey across diverse culinary landscapes and the profound joy of connecting with people and family. At BoujieMana, we don't just serve food; we craft memorable experiences. We invite you to pause, feel blessed, and immerse yourself in the moment – whether you're amidst a lively crowd or savoring solitude in our serene setting. Here, every visit is an opportunity to set aside the mundane and truly relish the joy of the present."