Nando’s, the South African-Portuguese restaurant chain, has garnered a devoted following worldwide for its flavorful peri-peri chicken and vibrant atmosphere. Whether you’re a seasoned Nando’s enthusiast or a curious newcomer, here are 15 essential things to know about this beloved eatery:
- Origins: Nando’s was founded in 1987 in Johannesburg, South Africa, by Fernando Duarte and Robert Brozin, hence the name “Nando’s.”
- Peri-Peri Sauce: The heart and soul of Nando’s cuisine is peri-peri sauce, made from the African bird’s eye chili, also known as peri-peri. This spicy sauce comes in varying degrees of heat, catering to all spice preferences.
- Global Expansion: From its humble beginnings in South Africa, Nando’s has expanded to over 1,000 restaurants in more than 30 countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States.
- Grilled Perfection: Nando’s signature dish is its flame-grilled peri-peri chicken, marinated for 24 hours to infuse the meat with flavor and tenderness before grilling to perfection.
- Customizable Heat: Customers can choose their preferred heat level for their peri-peri chicken, ranging from mild to extra hot, ensuring everyone can enjoy their meal at their desired spice level.
- Vegetarian and Vegan Options: Nando’s offers a range of vegetarian and vegan dishes, including options like the Veggie Burger and the Supergreen Wrap, ensuring there’s something for everyone on the menu.
- Side Dishes: Alongside their famous chicken, Nando’s offers a variety of mouthwatering side dishes, such as peri-peri fries, macho peas, and spicy rice, to complement any meal.
- Community Involvement: Nando’s is known for its commitment to giving back to the communities it serves through initiatives like the Nando’s Art Initiative, which supports local artists by displaying their work in restaurants.
- Cultural Fusion: Nando’s eclectic menu reflects its South African-Portuguese heritage, blending flavors and influences from both cultures to create a unique dining experience.
- Family-Friendly Environment: With its casual atmosphere and kid-friendly menu options, Nando’s is a popular choice for families looking for a relaxed dining experience.
- Loyalty Program: Nando’s offers a loyalty program, allowing customers to earn rewards and special offers with each visit, adding an extra incentive to frequent diners.
- Online Ordering: For added convenience, Nando’s offers online ordering and delivery services in many locations, making it easy to enjoy their delicious food from the comfort of home.
- Sustainability Efforts: Nando’s is committed to sustainable sourcing practices, ensuring that the ingredients used in their dishes are ethically and responsibly sourced whenever possible.
- Cultural Impact: Beyond its culinary offerings, Nando’s is known for its cheeky advertising campaigns and social media presence, which have helped solidify its place in popular culture.
- Passionate Fanbase: Nando’s has a dedicated fanbase of “Nandocas” (employees) and customers who are passionate about the brand, often sharing their love for Nando’s on social media and beyond.
In conclusion, Nando’s has become much more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural phenomenon celebrated for its delicious food, vibrant atmosphere, and commitment to giving back to the communities it serves. Whether you’re craving spicy peri-peri chicken or looking to explore new flavors, Nando’s has something for everyone to enjoy.
