BoujieMana Featured in the San Diego Union-Tribune: Is This San Diego’s Best Hidden Gem?
BoujieMana has been making waves in the San Diego dining scene, and we’re beyond thrilled to share some incredible news—we were recently featured in the San Diego Union-Tribune! Renowned food writer Pam Kragen visited our Mediterranean-inspired restaurant and highlighted what makes BoujieMana so unique. Her article not only recognized our commitment to quality food and hospitality but also celebrated the journey that led us here.
If you haven’t had the chance to read it yet, let’s dive into what makes this recognition so special—and why BoujieMana is quickly becoming one of San Diego’s top dining destinations.
BoujieMana: A Hidden Culinary Treasure in Serra Mesa
In the article, Kragen discusses how BoujieMana has been somewhat of a “hidden gem” in San Diego, quietly gaining recognition through word of mouth rather than flashy marketing. She describes how we’ve built our reputation organically, thanks to our scratch-made menu, elegant-yet-relaxed ambiance, and dedication to the community.
Even though BoujieMana is tucked away behind an office building in Serra Mesa, our guests continue to discover us—and fall in love with the food, atmosphere, and experience. The San Diego Union-Tribune highlighted how we’ve been operating under the radar but are now making a name for ourselves, especially after being ranked No. 8 on Yelp’s 2024 Best New Restaurants in America.
The Story Behind BoujieMana
One of the most exciting aspects of the article is how it showcases our origin story. Our founder, Samer Khouli, originally envisioned the space as a company cafeteria for his corporate staffing business, TCWGlobal. However, his deep-rooted passion for hospitality, community, and Middle Eastern flavors led him to transform it into something much bigger—a full-service restaurant open to the public, offering a high-end but welcoming Mediterranean dining experience.
In the San Diego Union-Tribune piece, Kragen describes how BoujieMana’s name represents two key themes:
“Boujie” (from “boujee”) reflects an elegant yet comfortable dining experience.
“Mana” references the divine nourishment from Biblical and Quranic traditions.
She also noted our commitment to giving back, as 3% of our restaurant’s proceeds are donated to local charities such as Shelter to Soldier, The Honor Foundation, and the San Diego Ronald McDonald House.
What’s on the Menu? A Culinary Experience Like No Other
Kragen’s article also shines a light on our menu, which is crafted with care by our talented Executive Chef Dante Cecchini. With experience in top Bay Area restaurants like Fiorella, Marlowe, SPQR, and Boulevard, Cecchini brings an elevated touch to classic Mediterranean flavors.
Some of the delicious meals mentioned in the San Diego Union-Tribune feature include:
Roasted Octopus with Pistachio Salsa Verde – A guest favorite for its perfect tenderness and bold flavors.
15-Day Dry-Aged Roasted Duck Platter – A must-try for food lovers looking for something rich and savory.
30-Day Aged Rib Eye – Cooked to perfection for steak lovers who appreciate quality.
Wood-Fired Pizzas – Made with 48-hour fermented dough for an incredible depth of flavor.
Middle Eastern Specialties – Including house-baked pita, hummus, tabouleh, and Syrian-style beef kibbeh.
Plus, our weekend brunch menu offers everything from pancakes and French toast to shakshuka and lamb sausage scramble. And for those looking for something extra special, we even host an elevated English tea service during the holidays and a few gluten-free options.
Why This Recognition Means So Much to Us
Getting featured in the San Diego Union-Tribune is an incredible honor for our team. It validates the hard work we’ve put into creating a restaurant that isn’t just about great food—it’s about community, culture, and creating memorable experiences.
From the moment you walk into BoujieMana, our goal is to transport you to a Mediterranean-inspired space where every meal feels like an experience. Whether you’re enjoying our chef-driven dishes, sipping on a handcrafted cocktail, or relaxing on our inviting patio, we want every guest to feel welcomed, appreciated, and satisfied.
What’s Next for BoujieMana?
With our recent Yelp recognition and now this feature in the San Diego Union-Tribune, we’re more motivated than ever to continue raising the bar for dining in San Diego. We can’t wait to welcome new guests and longtime regulars to experience what makes BoujieMana truly special.
If you haven’t visited us yet, now is the perfect time! Come see what all the buzz is about, and taste for yourself why BoujieMana is one of San Diego’s best-kept culinary secrets.
Visit Us at BoujieMana
Location: 3545 Aero Court, Suite B, San Diego, CA
Hours:
Tuesday – Friday: 11 AM – 9 PM
Saturday: 10 AM – 9 PM
Sunday: 10 AM – 2 PM
Closed on Mondays
Reservations & Info: (760) 826-8543
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