The Story Behind Madang Restaurant & Cafe: Where Modern Korean Cuisine Meets Community
Madang Restaurant & Cafe in Englewood Cliffs, NJ serves modern Korean-American cuisine, featuring favorites like steamed dumplings and abalone mixed rice, plus a cozy café and private event space.
If you're craving homemade steamed dumplings, a hearty brisket salad, or a comforting bowl of abalone mixed rice, Madang Restaurant & Cafe in Englewood Cliffs, NJ, should be on your list. This family-owned gem is all about modern Korean flavors, casual American eats, and a warm, welcoming atmosphere.
For Ryan Lee, running a restaurant isn’t just a job—it’s part of his family’s story. His parents opened their first spot, The Kiva, back in 2012, blending modern Korean dishes with organic tea in a way no one else was doing at the time. It was a hit, and when they decided to open a second restaurant in 2018, Madang was born.
“We built this place from the ground up,” Ryan says. “A brand-new space, but the same idea—good food, great tea, and a place for people to gather.”
A Menu That Keeps the Favorites
Madang’s approach to food is simple: if people love it, it stays. If something doesn’t get ordered enough, it’s gone. That’s how the restaurant’s signature dishes became staples:
⭐ Steamed Dumplings – Handmade and packed with flavor, a must-try.
🥩 Grilled Brisket Salad – Smoky, tender brisket paired with fresh greens.
🍚 Abalone Mixed Rice – Hearty, comforting, and full of umami goodness.
“We track everything,” Ryan says. “What sells, what doesn’t. So the menu is always full of things people actually love.”
Not Just a Restaurant—A Place to Celebrate
Madang is more than just a go-to for great food. It’s also a popular event space, with a second floor dedicated to private gatherings. From weddings and baby showers to birthday parties and family celebrations, Madang is a spot where people come together.
🎉 Private rooms for small and large groups
🍷 BYOB, plus New Jersey wines available
🌇 Scenic balcony seating
On weekends, the restaurant is packed with private events, making it one of the busiest spots in town for celebrations.
Keeping It Local and Looking Ahead
For Ryan, Madang is all about community. “This is a local, family-run place,” he says. “It’s not just about food—it’s about staying connected with our neighbors.”
As for what’s next? More of the same: great food, great service, and a space where people feel at home.