From Aisles to Impact: How Independent Markets Shape Local Economies
The Bigger Picture in a Local Market When I bought the small neighborhood grocery store that would later become Balboa International Market, I wasn’t just making a business decision—I was planting a seed in the community. At the time, I didn’t fully realize how that one store could grow into something that would feed not […]
What I’ve Learned About Customer Service After Serving Thousands Customer Service Is More Than a Smile
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to serve thousands of people through Balboa International Market, our restaurant Sufi Mediterranean Cuisine, and our catering business. If there’s one thing I’ve learned, it’s that good customer service isn’t just about being polite or friendly—although those things help. It’s about connection, consistency, and showing people you genuinely […]
Prescription to Passion: Why I Left Pharmacy to Feed My Community
A Change Rooted in Purpose If you had told me two decades ago that I would trade in my lab coat for a butcher’s apron and a grocery store’s inventory list, I might’ve laughed it off. My career as a pharmacist was fulfilling in many ways. I had worked hard through school—first earning my degree […]
A World of Flavor Under One Roof: Lessons from Building a Multicultural Market
Discovering the Heart of a Diverse City When I first bought the small neighborhood grocery store that would eventually become Balboa International Market, I didn’t imagine I was stepping into something much bigger than just running a business. I thought I was creating a place to sell food—ingredients that reminded people of home, the way […]
From Soap Buckets to Success: Life Lessons That Shaped My Business Journey
Where It All Began Before Balboa International Market or Sufi Mediterranean Cuisine ever existed, my business education started in places most people might overlook: car washes, gas stations, and restaurants. As a young student working my way through school, I wasn’t dreaming about owning a grocery empire or running a popular catering business. I was […]
Balancing Tradition with Innovation: How Sufi Mediterranean Cuisine Continues to Thrive
When I first ventured into the world of business, I never imagined I would one day own a Mediterranean restaurant and catering service. As a pharmacist with a background in science and an entrepreneurial spirit, I never stopped learning and experimenting, and it was that same curiosity and dedication that helped me bring my vision […]
Connecting Beyond the Counter: What My Journey Taught Me About Building Relationships
In my professional life, I’ve worn many hats. From my early days as a pharmacist to my current role as the owner of Balboa International Market, one constant has defined my journey: people. No matter the industry, it’s the relationships we build, the connections we foster, and the trust we earn that drive success. For […]
Building a Trusted Brand: Javid Javdani’s Journey from Pharmacy to Food Market Leadership
I am thrilled to share my journey from being a pharmacist to leading Balboa International Market, a trusted brand in San Diego known for its high-quality international food products. This journey has been marked by passion, dedication, and an unwavering commitment to excellence. From Pharmacy to Food Market: A Natural Transition Many people have asked […]
The Role of Local Sourcing in Enhancing Food Quality: Insights from Javid Javdani of Balboa Market
Hello, I’m Javid Javdani, the owner of Balboa International Market in San Diego. Today, I want to share my thoughts on a topic that’s close to my heart and vital to our operations: local sourcing and its impact on food quality. At Balboa Market, our commitment to quality is unwavering, and local sourcing plays a […]
The Importance of Networking and Mentorship in Entrepreneurship
Starting a business is an exciting journey. It can also be challenging and filled with uncertainty. One key to navigating these challenges is having a strong network and reliable mentors. Networking and mentorship play crucial roles in entrepreneurship, providing support, guidance, and opportunities for growth. Building a Network Networking is about making connections with people […]