ABout US
ABOUT Lemon Grove BISTRO
The vision behind Lemon Grove Bistro is simple: a space for shared community and good food.
In addition to offering comforting American favorites, our menu provides a selection of flavors inspired by our chef’s culinary experiences, ranging from classic Spanish fare to Italian favorites. Our menu changes seasonally to feature the freshest ingredients and provide an exciting dining experience throughout the year.
The Lemon Grove Bistro is in a historic mission-style building in the heart of Lemon Grove. Since 1912, it’s been a place where locals meet and build connections, whether they were picking up their mail at the Sonka General Store in 1944 or ordering custom cakes at the Grove Pastry Shop in 2012.
On the south wall of the building, a historic mural tells the story of Lemon Grove’s past. Inside, we're writing the next chapter of that story. And we want you to be a part of it.
Come for the food. Stay to experience the inviting ambiance of the historic building and its new garden. Let’s build community--together.
Join us for lunch or dinner at our Lemon Grove restaurant.
About the owners
Local restaurateurs Frederik Selchau and Rashi Wahidi bring over thirty years of combined expertise to the Lemon Grove Bistro. They’ve created unique dining experiences and catered events in the U.S. and Europe.
Chef Rashi’s culinary expertise ranges from American to Italian to Mediterranean cuisine. The pair have collaborated for over a decade creating custom culinary experiences for clients and venues across the San Diego region.
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Co-founder, Executive Chef
Chef Rashi is a culinary expert with a passion for hospitality and an innovative approach to food. With over two decades of experience in high-end restaurants and catering, he’s a proud co-founder of Lemon Grove Bistro.
Trained as a chef in London, Rashi worked for top catering companies. His specialties include presentation and menu development.
In 2011, Rashi moved to San Diego, eager to bring his flavor and attention to detail to the local industry. Specializing in Mediterranean and Italian cuisine, he's been a part of San Diego's culinary scene for over twelve years.
With his travels to four continents, Rashi brings a global perspective to his culinary creations. In his free time, he enjoys hanging out with his family, hitting the gym, and hiking.
Embark on a culinary journey curated by Rashi Wahidi at Lemon Grove Bistro. Experience exceptional flavors and meticulous presentation for an unforgettable dining experience. -
Co-Founder
Co-owner Frederik Selchau brings a lifelong commitment to the quality dining experience - one that feels seamless and satisfying, where guests arrive feeling welcome, and leave smiling. His commitment to quality has been shaped by his own experiences in restaurants and custom catering in his home country of Denmark, the United Kingdom, and Southern California.
As a resident of Lemon Grove, and humble steward of the historic space it inhabits, he aims to make Lemon Grove Bistro something the entire community can enjoy and feel proud of.
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Chef de Cuisine
Growing up in San Jose, California, Chef Jason started cooking at 10 years old. It was one of his chores to cook dinner once a week for his family. What started out as a chore turned into his passion.
After graduating high school Chef Jason moved to South Lake Tahoe. There, he began working in restaurants for the first time. In 2009, he graduated from the Professional Culinary Arts Institute. After graduation, he spent eight years cooking all over the San Francisco Bay area.
In 2017, Chef Jason moved to San Diego where his passion for cooking continues to grow. He specializes in Italian, French, and California cuisine. When he’s not making delicious food, you’ll find him on the softball field. He loves living in San Diego. To him, it's a beautiful place with good food and great people.