Cherif Mbodji

Seasoned hospitality and service professional Cherif Mbodji joined longtime co-worker and partner Chef Aaron Bludorn in 2020 to lead the management team at Bludorn. Following a prosperous career as General Manager and Service Director at Café Boulud, Cherif moved to Houston with his family to apply his talents at Aaron Bludorn’s first solo venture.

Hailing from Dakar, Senegal, Cherif moved to the United States in late 2000, to pursue his education in Business Management at Western Michigan University. While attending college, Cherif worked in restaurants as a busboy where he quickly developed a passion for restaurant culture and the hospitality industry. Over the years, his passion led him to work at the nation’s most prestigious establishments across the country including Michael Mina and 2 Michelin-starred Bouley Restaurant. Most recently, Cherif served as General Manager of Michelin-starred Café Boulud prior to his 2018 promotion to Service Director at 2 Michelin starred Restaurant Daniel.

Reflecting on his decision to uproot, Cherif states “Life is a journey, not a full stop. Chef Aaron and I have worked together for many years – beyond our friendship, I know how uniquely talented he is. When this opportunity came up to join him and Victoria, I knew this was a dream I wanted to follow.”

Cherif blends his emphasis on hospitality and meticulous service with the warm Southern hospitality he has grown fond of in his new hometown. When not in the restaurant, Cherif enjoys exploring the city’s restaurants, exploring the parks with his family and becoming acquainted with the people that make Houston such a diverse and vibrant place.