Jyoti-Bihanga

Specialties

Jyoti-​Bihanga specializes in creating delicious, wholesome vegetarian cuisine with a focus on international delights. We cater to vegan, raw, and gluten-​free needs (try our raw, vegan and gluten-​free cake!)

We strive to offer a place that embodies higher consciousness in food — peaceful and nourishing. You can think of Jyoti-​Bihanga (or JB as others affectionately call us) as your home-​away-​from-​home.

We believe in the connectedness of all human beings; that we are all «one.» All races, all genders, and all orientations are welcome at Jyoti-​Bihanga.

History

Established in 1986.

Jyoti-​Bihanga has a rich and interesting history. Our building was built in 1928 to be used as a bank. The bank never opened and in its place, many businesses opened and closed their doors over the years.

In the 80s, Adams Ave. looked very different than it does in present day. There was an abundance of vacant buildings and walls lined with graffiti. At that time, Mahiyan, Jyoti-Bihanga’s founder, was a student of Sri Chinmoy, an Indian spiritual guru. Together, they searched for the perfect location where they could build this restaurant. Their dream was to create a safe place that promoted the ideals of love and peace.

They chose this Adams Ave. location in part because of the building’s beautiful vaulted ceilings and large windows. Soon after JB opened, the neighborhood conditions vastly improved. We believe our intention of peace and love rippled throughout Normal Heights, helping to stabilize the neighborhood.

We’ve proudly served San Diego for almost 30 years!

Meet the Business Owner

Mahiyan S.

Business Owner

Mahiyan moved to San Diego in 1966. He attended UCSD where he played tennis. He owned and operated a tennis store in La Jolla, which he sold in 1980. It’s still open to this day. In 1977, Mahiyan competed in the French Open playing tennis.

He joined a spiritual meditation group under the guidance of Sri Chinmoy in 1979, a decision that he credits with many of his successes in business. He helped open restaurants in New York, Oslo, Norway and San Francisco before opening Jyoti-​Bihanga in 1986. He learned many things along the way that helped him build a strong and enduring company.

When he’s not working at the restaurant, Mahiyan helps coordinate the Peace Run, which takes place in cities all over the world. Peace Run is a global relay that seeks to promote international friendship and understanding.

Above all, Mahiyan enjoys promoting the ideals of peace and tranquility and these qualities are seen in every project he undertakes.