When it comes to iconic South African brands that have captured the hearts and taste buds of millions, Nando’s is at the top of the list. Known for its flame-grilled, peri-peri chicken, Nando’s has grown from a small eatery in Johannesburg to a global fast-casual powerhouse with over 1,200 outlets in 30 countries. This blog post takes a closer look at Nando’s journey, its mouth-watering menu, and why it continues to be a beloved choice for chicken lovers in South Africa and beyond.
- What questions do they ask at a Nandos interview?
- How much do Nandos employees earn?
- Who is the CEO of Nandos South Africa?
- What are Nandos employee values?
- What is Nando’s slogan?
Nando’s was founded in 1987 in the Rosettenville suburb of Johannesburg by two friends, Robert Brozin and Fernando Duarte. Their mission was simple: to introduce the world to the irresistible flavor of Portuguese-style peri-peri chicken. The brand’s signature logo features the Rooster of Barcelos, a popular symbol of Portugal’s cultural heritage.
From its humble beginnings, Nando’s quickly expanded across South Africa and later ventured into the international market. Today, Nando’s operates in over 30 countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, and the United States, where its peri-peri chicken has become a global sensation.
The Nando’s Menu: A Flavorful Adventure
At the heart of Nando’s success is its legendary peri-peri chicken. Grilled to perfection over an open flame, each piece of chicken is infused with Nando’s famous peri-peri sauce, which comes in a range of heat levels, from mild to extra hot. But Nando’s isn’t just about chicken — its menu offers a variety of delicious options, including:
- Burgers, Wraps, and Pitas: Flame-grilled chicken in soft, fresh bread options, paired with mouth-watering sauces.
- Platters to Share: Perfect for families and groups, these platters feature whole chickens, sides, and extras to feed a crowd.
- Vegetarian Options: From veggie wraps to tasty side dishes like spiced rice, coleslaw, and peri-peri wedges.
- Sizzling Sides: Chips (fries), garlic bread, corn on the cob, and salad are just some of the sides that complement every meal.
- Perinaise and Sauces: No Nando’s meal is complete without a dollop of Perinaise or one of the brand’s famous peri-peri sauces.
What Makes Nando’s Unique?
- Distinctive Flavors: The bold taste of peri-peri sauce — made with African bird’s eye chilies — sets Nando’s apart from other fast-casual chicken restaurants.
- Flame-Grilled Perfection: Unlike fried chicken, Nando’s grills its chicken over an open flame, giving it a smoky, juicy flavor.
- Customizable Heat: Customers can choose their preferred level of spice, from lemon and herb to extra hot peri-peri.
- Vibrant Atmosphere: Nando’s restaurants are known for their artistic, Afro-Portuguese-inspired decor that creates a warm and inviting dining experience.
- Iconic Branding: Nando’s witty advertising campaigns and quirky sense of humor have earned it a cult following on social media.
The Nando’s Customer Experience
Nando’s customer service is just as spicy as its chicken. Customers can order online, use the Nando’s app, or dine in at one of its vibrant, art-filled restaurants. With a commitment to quality service, Nando’s ensures that each guest receives hot, fresh, and flavorful food. For inquiries or customer support, Nando’s South Africa can be reached at 0860 113 332.
The Business Behind the Brand
Nando’s Chickenland Limited serves as the parent organization for the brand. Originally owned by South African billionaire Dick Enthoven, the company is now run by his family following his passing in 2022. The family’s continued involvement ensures that Nando’s remains true to its South African roots while maintaining its global appeal.
Nando’s and South African Culture
Nando’s is more than just a restaurant — it’s a cultural institution in South Africa. From hosting music events to supporting local artists with in-store art displays, Nando’s celebrates and promotes South African creativity. Its clever, often satirical advertising campaigns are widely loved for their humor and social commentary.
Why South Africans Love Nando’s
- Taste: The unforgettable taste of Nando’s peri-peri chicken keeps customers coming back for more.
- Affordability: Whether dining solo or with family, Nando’s offers great value for money.
- Quality: Fresh, flavorful, and flame-grilled to perfection, every meal is crafted with care.
- Social Engagement: Nando’s stays relevant with clever marketing that often reflects current events and pop culture.
- Community Impact: Nando’s supports local initiatives, employment opportunities, and the promotion of South African talent.
How to Find a Nando’s Near You
With outlets in major cities like Johannesburg, Cape Town, Durban, and Pretoria, finding a Nando’s near you is easy. Simply use Google Maps, the Nando’s website, or the Nando’s app to locate your nearest restaurant. Delivery options are also available in select areas, allowing you to enjoy the Nando’s experience from the comfort of your home.
Conclusion
Nando’s is a South African success story that has gone global, offering a unique taste of homegrown flavor to the world. Its iconic peri-peri chicken, vibrant atmosphere, and strong cultural ties make it a must-try for locals and tourists alike. From its early days in Johannesburg to its current status as a global brand, Nando’s continues to spice up the fast-casual dining scene with its unmistakable flavor and flair.
Whether you’re in the mood for a mild lemon-and-herb wrap or a fiery extra-hot platter, Nando’s has something for everyone. So why not treat yourself to a taste of South African excellence today? Visit your nearest Nando’s and experience the magic of flame-grilled perfection.