Manny Vibez is a chef-owned, family-operated breakfast, brunch, and lunch restaurant that brings a unique blend of global flavors to Norwood, PA. The concept of Manny Vibez was founded in loving memory by Chef Christiana Marie in May 2023, several months after unfortunately losing her best friend and beloved brother, Emmanuel, aka “Manny” (Sunrise 12/25/87 – Sunset 8/02/22). The entire menu, including beverages and decor, was inspired by Emmanuel.

“This was our dream together for the longest, and it may not be how we imagined, but we definitely still did this together. Thank you, brother, everything that was you. God may not work on our time, but he is always on time. May your vibe live on forever.”

Chef Christiana always knew from a young age that her dream was to become a chef and open a restaurant. She preferred cooking shows over cartoons on Saturday mornings. Although her dream was briefly detoured when she joined the U.S. Army, it was there that she learned the disciplined fundamentals of hard work and the importance of teamwork and leadership.

Later, Christiana pursued her passion by achieving her Culinary Arts & Hospitality degree from the Art Institute of Philadelphia. During this time, she met her husband and Sous Chef, Mario, dancing the night away at her aunt’s wedding. Quickly, they learned they were a stronger force together than apart. They worked for many years in unity to run a successful catering company, always with the dream of opening their own restaurant someday.

Christiana went on to assist in opening the first healthy food truck for Thomas Jefferson Hospital, Nourished, before excelling in her career to become the Executive Chef at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. Feeling the need to expand her culinary perspective, she moved on to become the Operations Manager for Buena Onda Taqueria, for Iron Chef Jose Garces. There, Christiana not only prospered and strengthened her management skills but also created lifelong memories alongside her brother, Manny.

“It was the best times of our lives, and I am truly blessed to have lived them with him.”

Christiana was later offered a more challenging position and became General Manager for OTG Management, a hospitality group exclusive to American Airlines. “Leaving Buena definitely was one of the most difficult choices I had to face within my career, but I couldn’t be afraid of change.”

After just a short year, the world was shut down due to COVID-19, forcing everyone to slow down. During that time, Mario and Christiana were blessed to have two more beautiful boys, completing their family of five.

“Now is the time for me to find myself again and do what I always dreamt of doing, not only for myself and all the angels watching but for my family’s future.”

And so, with further adieu, “Welcome to Manny Vibez, where your food is made with AMOR and you’re treated like FAMILIA.” Manny Vibez is a melting pot of cuisines offering options to satisfy everyone in your family.

~ Chef Christiana Marie