insideOUT, owned by Matthew Ramon, elevated the San Diego dining scene upon opening in April 2018. Situated in the eye-catching Eitol Towers, insideOUT is a casual elegant restaurant where its main dining room opens to an atrium that features a switchback walkway with seating nooks, a striking water feature, and ample outdoor seating for guests to experience San Diego’s only urban oasis.
The menu, executed by Executive Chef MJ Testa, is updated seasonally to reflect her creative approach to California and Mediterranean inspired fare using the freshest ingredients provided by our local purveyors. Part of the MO’s Universe Group, insideOUT provides individualized guest-focused service and respectful hospitality.
MATTHEW RAMON, Owner
Matthew Ramon has been involved with the San Diego community for nearly 30 years. Originally from Michigan, Ramon moved to California in 1991 and helped with the opening of then Hamburger Mary’s. Mentored by Chris Shaw, Ramon worked diligently and advanced to become co-owner of the MO’s Universe Group restaurants in the early 2000s. Knowing the value of the community and believing in the MO’s Universe philosophy, Ramon opened insideOUT with the vision of having an elevated style and flavor. Ramon is a pillar of the San Diego LGBTQ community. He organizes fundraisers to support numerous charities and foundations and uses MO’s restaurants to promote events that empower and build Hillcrest and the San Diego community.
MJ TESTA, Executive Chef/Co-Owner
Executive Chef Maryjo Testa is a Southern California native. Raised in a tight niche Italian family, Testa was influenced by the techniques, flavors and style of home village dishes her mother and grandmother prepared at a very young age.
In 1995, Testa moved to Italy and started working in a family owned Mediterranean restaurant near the Amalfi coast. Over the course of several years, Testa mastered regional Italian dishes and expanded her culinary creations to include regional Mediterranean flavors.
Testa’s wealth of culinary knowledge and leadership as Chef, Sous Chef, and Chef de Partie sparks an energy which generates brilliant flavors and elevated dishes.
PARIS QUION, General Manager
Paris Quion is a San Diego native who believes in the power of the San Diego LGBTQ community. Her connection with Hillcrest began at the age of eleven when she started using her passion to advocate for community service, support various charities and events, and entertain.
Throughout the years, Quion has been involved with the MO’s Universe Group in different platforms. Her leadership, creative style and commitment to the community have given her the foundation for understanding how a restaurant operates and she is committed to providing guests with an elevated experience.
