The Ciceu family from Maramureș has established a successful network of restaurants in the Brussels area after spending a decade navigating Belgian residency requirements. Their restaurants, all named "Mara," now serve traditional Romanian cuisine to European officials, NATO personnel, and diplomats.

Journey to Belgium

George and Rodica Ciceu, along with their sons Ciprian and Florin (then aged 12 and 11), left Baia Mare in search of better opportunities. George had worked as an engineer at the renowned Faimar porcelain factory, while Rodica was a textile worker. The family faced significant difficulties in their first decade abroad, moving between neighborhoods repeatedly as their residency applications were rejected eight times between 1991 and 2001.

Turning Point

After six years of rejections and discouragement, the family finally received approval in 2001 from the municipality of Jette. This breakthrough allowed them to invest in their own business. They acquired a historic farm in Ath, approximately 45 kilometers from Brussels, which became both their home and the location of their first restaurant.

Restaurant Network Expansion

The original "Mara" restaurant opened on May 18, 2002. In the first seven years, the restaurant faced challenges due to its distance from Brussels and limited Romanian clientele. Ciprian explained that "much work and perseverance" led to their success, with his mother continuing kitchen operations while his father maintained an outside job.

Expansion Timeline:

• 2002: Mara Restaurant in Ath
• 2013: Mara Louise opened on Boulevard Louise (Brussels)
• 2015: Braseria Mara Crown opened on Boulevard General Jacques
• 2016: Acquired "Prince's Manor" in Anderlecht

Philosophy and Identity

Ciprian emphasized their commitment to Romanian pride: "We were never ashamed to say we are Romanian." The family acknowledged that post-revolutionary Romania faced negative stereotypes in Belgian media, but chose to celebrate their heritage through authentic cuisine and cultural representation.

Business Figures

• Annual revenue: €1.45 million
• Employees: 34 (predominantly Romanian)
• Investments: €950,000 (Ath), €250,000 (Louise), €185,000 (Crown), €3.5 million (Manor)

Future Plans

The family has acquired three agrotourism guesthouses in the Maramureș region for future development.

Article by Remus Florescu, published September 7, 2016, updated August 10, 2022.