Memphis barbecue is about to get a new twist.
Bala’s Bistro owners Bala Tounkara and Mady Magassa have designed a new barbecue restaurant that brings together the cuisine of their homeland in West Africa with that of their adopted home of Memphis.
Mande Dibi West African BBQ-Grill will open in mid to late March at 6825 Winchester Road.
The name was inspired by the concept. “Mande is the name of the West African empire and dibi means barbecue or grill,” Tounkara said. “We can show our love for Memphis, with West African influences.”
The menu will feature barbecue dishes like rotisserie grilled chickens and smoked beef brisket. While the cooking techniques will be similar to Memphis-style barbecue, the seasonings and sauces will have their roots in West African cuisine. Dishes like Jerk Chicken and signature burgers will also be offered, as will some of the more popular items from Bala’s Bistro.
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