Interview with Mark and Denis of Madiba

Madiba is a wonderful authentic South African Restaurant run by two affable brothers Mark Henegan, owner and Denis Du Preez, manager. In fact, they are both so sociable that it is difficult to pin either of them down for more than a few minutes at a time. Their customers quickly become friends, and they treat their friends well, always with a smile, a handshake or a hug. I was able to speak with both of them in the early evening on a Friday night before the restaurant became too busy. So, as I got their stories, it was not a traditional interview, and a Q&A format is just not a possibility.

Mark, the senior brother by ten years, arrived in the United States in 1987, when his sister was an au pair for a NYC family. His parents had been very liberal when he was growing up in the 1970s, and as a child, he was able to learn about all aspects and cultures of South Africa. When he got to the States, he worked as a waiter in NYC and traveled the country with his best friend. When he returned to NY he found a job at Il Buco (an Italian restaurant on Bond St. in NoHo). The owners, Alberto and Donna, became mentors. In 1994, Alberto created a restaurant where his customers could relax and enjoy the food of his homeland.

In 1999, Mark and his wife Jenny decided to follow suit. At that time, Mark & Jenny lived in Fort Greene, right across the street from their future restaurant. Mark loved Fort Greene, but he missed the food of his homeland, and dreamt of opening a South African Restaurant. The restaurant started out small; in what is now the entrance to the establishment, with only 5 tables, a bar and a tiny kitchen. Mark & Jenny never dreamed the place would become so popular with their neighbors, and that it would have such a long run. In 2001 the deli on the corner shut down and Madiba was able to expand trifold.

The restaurant has always supported other small businesses such as farmer’s markets and Mom & Pop shops. In 2012 Madiba worked with other merchants on DeKalb to start a 501c3 called the DeKalb Ave Partnership which runs from Waverly to Flatbush Ave. Madiba has always supported local schools & churches as well as South African Non-Profits.

Mark’s brother Denis came to the US in 1999. Denis worked multiple jobs in the service industry, mainly as a waiter and a bouncer; sometimes working as many as 4 jobs at a time.  In 2000, Mark decided that his brother Denis should join him at Madiba. They have had a flourishing business ever since.

Mark & Denis try to infuse the restaurant with their favorite aspects of South African culture. Customers come to see their South African hosts, but stay for the authentic street food like the Samoosas. Unlike the Indian version with its doughy exterior, their Samoosas have a delicate outer layer. Many of their dishes have a definite Indian influence; curry flavors several of their entrees. Both indoors and outdoors are buzzing with customers from morning through to nighttime.

Three things are sure when you walk into Madiba; a) it will be filled with music, b) the food will be authentic and delicious, and c) you will be greeted with a beautiful South African smile.