Dine and Discover Queens: Cheryl Johnson - Cmani's Delights

It’s “Dine and Discover Queens” time! “Dine and Discover Queens” is a monthly spotlight on some of the best food and drink options from around the borough! This month we are featuring Cheryl Johnson, aka Madame CJ, CEO and Owner of Cmani’s Delights, a catering company offering a vibrant mix of flavors and unique dining experiences to customers. To learn more, go to https://www.cmanisdelightscateringservicesllc.com/. 

What inspired the creation of your business, and how did you get your start?

My grandmother, Margaret, was a huge inspiration to me. As a child, we would explore different restaurants across Queens and Brooklyn, experiencing the diverse flavors and cultures they had to offer. She always nurtured my love for food by gifting me cookbooks, especially the Woman's Day Cookbook Encyclopedia, which sparked my curiosity and passion for the culinary arts.

I started my business to create an additional stream of income while tapping into people’s love for great food. I noticed that on payday, many were willing to spend more on a satisfying, high-quality lunch. With my ability to craft delicious meals that hit the spot, I knew I could provide exactly what they were looking for.

Can you share a bit about your restaurant journey in Queens?

Queens' food culture is a vibrant mix of flavors, and I set out on my restaurant journey to match my competitors. When I was living in Jamaica, Queens, I discovered a restaurant that served Pepper Shrimps, but I wasn’t a fan of how the shrimps stuck to the shell, ruining the experience. Determined to make it better, I experimented with a new preparation method that made the dish more enjoyable to eat. The process took plenty of scotch bonnet peppers—and a few burning tongues—but in the end, I crafted a version that was flavorful, fiery, and satisfying.

Now, Cmani's Delights has earned a reputation for serving some of the best Pepper Shrimps in NYC. The journey has also given me the opportunity to fuse two distinct culinary traditions, creating dishes that blend flavors in unexpected ways. One standout is Cmani's SOUL ROLL—a twist on the classic egg roll that brings a soulful touch to a beloved dish.

What makes your restaurant unique?

My approach to cooking is truly extraordinary—an expression of my soul, guided by divine inspiration to create a one-of-a-kind dish. Instead of following recipes, I wait for creativity to flow, trusting in prayer to unlock the flavors and ideas meant just for me. My food is more than a meal—it’s a spiritual experience, infused with purpose and passion.