The renowned Mzoli's brand, which originated in Gugulethu and became a Cape Town institution, has reopened in the heart of the city centre. Sisanda Mangele, the daughter of Edwin "Mzoli" Ngcawuzele, has successfully revived her father's legacy with a new venue in Gardens. The original Mzoli's closed in May 2021 due to economic pressures from COVID-19 restrictions. Mangele's vision for the new Mzoli Meat, Grill & Gardens is to recreate the experience and heritage of the iconic brand.
Mangele's father, Edwin "Mzoli" Ngcawuzele, was a pioneer who aimed to develop the Gugulethu community. He envisioned providing resources and services to the local people, making it unnecessary for them to travel to town or use taxis to access shopping centres. Mangele remembers her father as a disciplined person who instilled this characteristic in his children. He planned properly and ensured his children had direction to manage themselves in the future.
The decision to reopen Mzoli's in Gardens was driven by a desire to make the experience accessible to a broader clientele. Mangele emphasizes that Mzoli's is not just about chisanyama, but also about heritage, experience, and bringing people together. The new venue, located on Dunkley Square, offers a unique atmosphere and stunning views, attracting visitors from various communities, including Gugulethu.
The community of Gugulethu and other communities have shown significant support for the new Mzoli's. Mangele reports that people from Gugulethu visit the venue daily, enjoying the atmosphere and views. Loyal customers from the past, now grown up, continue to support the brand, creating a sense of familiarity and continuity.
Mangele has plans to franchise the business, building on the colossal support received since the September opening. The new Mzoli's is hard to miss, located at 15 Barnet Street, and can be followed on Facebook and Instagram. The revival of Mzoli's legacy is a testament to the enduring power of the brand and its commitment to community and heritage.
The reopening of Mzoli's in Gardens marks a new chapter in the brand's history, with Sisanda Mangele at the helm. Mangele's conversation with Sara-Jayne Makwala King on CapeTalk's Weekend Breakfast provides further insight into her father's legacy and the vision behind the new venture.
As Mzoli's continues to thrive in its new location, it remains to be seen how the brand will evolve and expand under Mangele's leadership. With its strong foundation in heritage and community, Mzoli's is poised to remain a beloved institution in Cape Town for years to come.
Key points
- Mzoli's has reopened in Cape Town's Gardens under the leadership of Sisanda Mangele, reviving its legacy as a iconic shisanyama venue.
- The new Mzoli Meat, Grill & Gardens offers a unique experience, combining heritage, atmosphere, and stunning views.
- Mangele plans to franchise the business, building on the significant support received since the September opening.
