Nando’s is more than just a chicken restaurant; it’s a global phenomenon. Known for its fiery PERi-PERi flavors and cheeky marketing, the brand has become synonymous with bold taste and cultural coolness. But how did this now-iconic chain start? The story of Nando’s is as spicy as its sauces—full of ambition, serendipity, and one unforgettable bite of chicken.
1. The Bite That Started It All
In 1987, Fernando Duarte took his friend Robert Brozin to a small Portuguese-style chicken restaurant in Rosettenville, Johannesburg, South Africa. This wasn’t just any chicken—it was marinated with PERi-PERi, a chili grown by Portuguese explorers in Africa. One bite was all it took for the duo to realize they were onto something extraordinary.
“This is the best chicken I’ve ever tasted,” Robert reportedly said. That moment sparked the idea to buy the restaurant for R80,000 (around $25,000 back then), setting the stage for what would become Nando’s.
2. The Name Behind the Flame
The restaurant was initially called Chickenland, but the new owners wanted a name that reflected their Portuguese heritage and fiery passion. They renamed it Nando’s, inspired by Fernando Duarte’s name and Portuguese roots.
3. The PERi-PERi Secret
The magic of Nando’s lies in its PERi-PERi sauce, made from African Bird’s Eye chili, lemon, garlic, and herbs. This sauce, rooted in Mozambican and Portuguese cuisine, became the heart of their brand. Its unique combination of spice and flavor gave Nando’s an edge, making it a standout in a sea of fast-food chains.
4. From Johannesburg to the World
After successfully running their first outlet, Fernando and Robert expanded rapidly across South Africa. By 1992, Nando’s opened its first international restaurant in the heart of London, where it was embraced as a trendy spot for a casual meal with flair.
Today, Nando’s operates in over 30 countries, including the UK, Australia, Canada, and even the United States. Despite its global reach, the brand stays true to its South African roots, with artwork, decor, and music inspired by the country’s rich culture.
5. Marketing with a Side of Humor
Nando’s is as famous for its witty advertising as it is for its food. Its cheeky, often satirical marketing campaigns tackle everything from politics to pop culture. This bold approach has endeared the brand to millions and cemented its reputation as a cultural touchstone.
6. A Brand with Heart
Nando’s has always been about more than just chicken. The company is deeply involved in community upliftment, supporting local farmers, artists, and charities. Its Art Initiative, for instance, showcases contemporary South African art in its restaurants around the globe, providing exposure and income for local artists.
7. The Nando’s Experience
What sets Nando’s apart isn’t just the food—it’s the experience. The vibrant interiors, Afro-Portuguese music, and communal dining vibe make each visit feel special.
From a small eatery in Johannesburg to a global powerhouse, Nando’s has carved out a unique place in the hearts (and stomachs) of millions. Its success is a testament to the power of great taste, bold ideas, and a little PERi-PERi passion.
So next time you dig into that flame-grilled chicken, remember: it all started with one bite that changed the world.
