Hello and welcome to Ku Mana’s! My name is Ndikumana Rasheri, and I’m thrilled to share my journey with you.

When I moved to the U.S. with my family at eight years old, we came seeking new opportunities. But one of the most valuable lessons I learned along the way wasn’t in the classroom—it was in the kitchen. At twelve, my older sister taught me how to cook. She used to say, “If you don’t learn how to cook, no man will marry you.” I remember laughing, but looking back, that playful advice was the beginning of my deep connection with food.

What started as a practical skill evolved into something much more: a passion. Cooking became my way of connecting with my roots and culture. It’s not just about preparing meals; it’s about creating experiences, sharing stories, and preserving tradition. Whether I’m making rice, beans, chicken stew, or other traditional Burundian dishes, each meal is a way for me to connect to my heritage and bring a piece of home to the table.

The name Ku Mana carries that spirit forward. In Kirundi, my native language, Ku Mana means “with God.” It is a reflection of my faith and a reminder that every meal is a blessing to be shared.

The vision for Ku Mana’s is to offer more than just a meal; it’s to offer an experience. We want every dish to tell a story, every flavor to evoke a memory, and every bite to remind you that food is more than nourishment—it’s a bridge that connects people across cultures.

As we move forward, we remain deeply committed to sharing the vibrant flavors of Burundian cuisine with the world. I believe that food has the power to bring us closer, to create understanding, and to celebrate the beauty of diversity.

Thank you for being part of this journey. Welcome to Ku Mana’s, where heritage meets the plate, and every meal feels like home.