Mathabatha previously owned a restaurant in Pretoria, which he opened in 2017 but had to close due to financial challenges. He later worked as a brand manager for a liquor brand before deciding to give the restaurant business another go.
With Math Restaurant, he wanted to create a space that felt like home, where people could come together to enjoy good food and good company. The restaurant’s name, Math, pays tribute to his family’s entrepreneurial legacy and the values they instilled in him.
The menu at Math Restaurant is a reflection of Mathabatha’s diverse culinary influences, with dishes ranging from traditional South African favorites to modern fusion creations. During Restaurant Week, diners can sample a specially curated menu at a discounted price, giving them a taste of what Math Restaurant has to offer.
In addition to the food, the ambiance at Math Restaurant is carefully curated to create a welcoming and comfortable space for guests. The artwork on the walls, the custom-designed furniture, and the unique lighting fixtures all add to the restaurant’s unique charm.
For Mathabatha, running a restaurant is not just about serving good food; it’s about creating a memorable dining experience for his guests. With his passion for food and hospitality, he hopes to continue growing Math Restaurant into a beloved culinary destination for food lovers in Midrand and beyond.
As Restaurant Week kicks off, Math Restaurant is ready to welcome diners and showcase their delicious dishes. Whether you’re a foodie looking to try something new or a regular customer looking for a special dining experience, Math Restaurant is the place to be during this culinary event. Mathabatha, a former franchise owner, has always believed that people want things they can relate to. His experience in helping organize events and launch restaurants while studying financial science at Tuks has taught him valuable lessons about entrepreneurship.
After deciding to open his own eatery, Mathabatha self-funded Math, the only black-owned restaurant at Waterfall, which has been operational for less than a year. He compares the process of opening the restaurant to caring for a baby, ensuring it is well-fed and taken care of in its early stages.
Managing the restaurant has its challenges, including balancing various tasks such as keeping employees happy, marketing, and maintaining efficiency. Mathabatha emphasizes the importance of addressing issues promptly to prevent problems like theft or dissatisfied customers.
Despite the challenges, Mathabatha remains determined and resilient. He believes in having open conversations with his employees rather than resorting to shouting or screaming. His financial science background has been instrumental in managing the restaurant’s finances and securing funding.
Mathabatha’s passion for food dates back to his childhood, influenced by watching cooking shows on BBC Food and his cousin, a chef. He draws inspiration from international cuisines, such as the dishes he experienced in Singapore, and believes South Africa has the potential to have more Michelin-star restaurants.
Overall, Mathabatha is committed to offering a unique dining experience at Math, showcasing his love for food and dedication to providing a memorable culinary experience for his customers.
