Is this controversial man back for redemption? See what he's planning this time
- Replies 0
In social media, readers may see several tales of controversy and attempted redemption.
An Aussie businessman who once faced online backlash is stirring the pot once again.
This time, he's seeking forgiveness as he embarks on a new venture in an unexpected locale.
In 2020, cafe owner Mark Da Costa became a polarising figure online.
His Waterloo-based cafe, Hale and Hearty, became the centre of heated debates at the time.
Da Costa has used homophobic slurs and declared that his cafe was a 'Donald Trump safe zone'.
Other than these remarks, he would state that his cafe served pancakes with a 'side of racism'.
Da Costa's online conduct sparked widespread condemnation from several onlookers and advocacy groups.
In response to the backlash, Da Costa lashed out at his critics as he targeted the 'left-wing fake vegan community' and would tell people to 'Go f*** yourself.'
While Hale and Hearty closed their doors soon after, Da Costa's story just turned to a new page.
Fast forward to the present, Da Costa has stepped back into the Sydney food scene with a new establishment.
The restaurant, named Bueno, nestled itself at the end of Newtown's iconic King Street.
Slated to open on Wednesday, 19 March, Bueno promised a 'seed oil-free and whole foods' dining experience—a stark contrast to his previous, controversy-ridden establishment.
In a recent interview, Da Costa reflected on his 'monumental online meltdown' and wanted to move on from the events that transpired in 2020.
He spoke about personal growth and maturity and claimed to have made peace with his actions.
'A very painful affair that was in 2020,' he admitted.
'Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die,' he added, emphasising the power of forgiveness and his hopes that the community could look beyond his past.
Da Costa added that his primary focus now is on Bueno's food and service.
'I'm not here to discuss politics, just here to serve unadulterated food and employ talented individuals that go above and beyond for the guests we provide food and beverages to in the area,' he stated.
Da Costa's scheduled comeback with Bueno already sent ripples throughout the Newtown community, with mixed reactions surfacing on social media.
Some locals express scepticism about Da Costa's latest venture.
On the other hand, some shared their curiosity and wanted to see if Da Costa's new venture could genuinely mark a new chapter.
A community member also highlighted Da Costa's surprising decision to build the restaurant in Newtown—a suburb known for its progressive values.
Bueno is scheduled to take over the space previously occupied by Khamsa Eatery.
Khamsa Eatery was a Middle Eastern restaurant that recently closed its doors after eight years of service.
Da Costa stumbled upon the opportunity by chance and seized it.
He wished the owners of Khamsa Eatery well.
As Bueno prepares to open its doors to the public, the question remains: Can the community forgive and forget, or will the shadows of his past loom over this new beginning?
Have you ever given a business a second chance after a controversy? Do you believe in redemption for business owners who have made public mistakes? Share your experiences and opinions with us in the comments below.
An Aussie businessman who once faced online backlash is stirring the pot once again.
This time, he's seeking forgiveness as he embarks on a new venture in an unexpected locale.
In 2020, cafe owner Mark Da Costa became a polarising figure online.
His Waterloo-based cafe, Hale and Hearty, became the centre of heated debates at the time.
Da Costa has used homophobic slurs and declared that his cafe was a 'Donald Trump safe zone'.
Mark Da Costa posted his political sentiments on his business page in 2020. Image Credit: Facebook/Hale and Hearty
Other than these remarks, he would state that his cafe served pancakes with a 'side of racism'.
Da Costa's online conduct sparked widespread condemnation from several onlookers and advocacy groups.
In response to the backlash, Da Costa lashed out at his critics as he targeted the 'left-wing fake vegan community' and would tell people to 'Go f*** yourself.'
While Hale and Hearty closed their doors soon after, Da Costa's story just turned to a new page.
Fast forward to the present, Da Costa has stepped back into the Sydney food scene with a new establishment.
The restaurant, named Bueno, nestled itself at the end of Newtown's iconic King Street.
Slated to open on Wednesday, 19 March, Bueno promised a 'seed oil-free and whole foods' dining experience—a stark contrast to his previous, controversy-ridden establishment.
In a recent interview, Da Costa reflected on his 'monumental online meltdown' and wanted to move on from the events that transpired in 2020.
He spoke about personal growth and maturity and claimed to have made peace with his actions.
'A very painful affair that was in 2020,' he admitted.
'Holding a grudge is like drinking poison and expecting the other person to die,' he added, emphasising the power of forgiveness and his hopes that the community could look beyond his past.
Da Costa added that his primary focus now is on Bueno's food and service.
'I'm not here to discuss politics, just here to serve unadulterated food and employ talented individuals that go above and beyond for the guests we provide food and beverages to in the area,' he stated.
Da Costa's scheduled comeback with Bueno already sent ripples throughout the Newtown community, with mixed reactions surfacing on social media.
Some locals express scepticism about Da Costa's latest venture.
On the other hand, some shared their curiosity and wanted to see if Da Costa's new venture could genuinely mark a new chapter.
A community member also highlighted Da Costa's surprising decision to build the restaurant in Newtown—a suburb known for its progressive values.
Bueno is scheduled to take over the space previously occupied by Khamsa Eatery.
Khamsa Eatery was a Middle Eastern restaurant that recently closed its doors after eight years of service.
Da Costa stumbled upon the opportunity by chance and seized it.
He wished the owners of Khamsa Eatery well.
As Bueno prepares to open its doors to the public, the question remains: Can the community forgive and forget, or will the shadows of his past loom over this new beginning?
