The Food: A Surprisingly Great Experience
The food was excellent, and there’s no doubt about that. Three of us recently ordered a mix of burgers, wraps, and pittas for my daughter’s birthday. I was initially a bit apprehensive when I saw piles of food stacking up under the heat lamps at the serving hatch, and the delivery to our table was on the slow side.
However, the quality and generosity of the portions completely won me over:
The Main: I ordered the double chicken burger with an extra slice of cheese (£1 addition). The bun was lovely, the chicken was perfectly cooked and seasoned, and the cheese added great flavor.
The Sides: It came with chips (which were really good) and Mac & Cheese (which was just okay).
The Value: At around £21, it wasn’t cheap, but the portion was incredibly filling and generous. The presentation was as also good.
The Concept: Where They Lost Me
My daughter chose the Rugby branch of Nando’s for us to eat at. If I’m honest, it’s not a venue I would normally choose; I had only eaten at a Nando’s once before, about 10 years ago. Looking around the restaurant, it was clear that I am not the target market. The crowd mostly ranged from teenagers to people in their 30s, predominantly young families, students, and young professionals.
Because I’m not the target demographic, I struggled with the self-service concept:
Canteen Vibes: While I don’t mind topping up my own bottomless drinks, having to fetch my own cutlery and condiments felt more like a school or work canteen than a night out.
Do-It-Yourself Ordering: You have to do all the work yourself by ordering online (or walking up to the till). There is minimum table service.
Layout Issues: The drinks machine, water, and ice station were awkwardly located right in a main walkway. I never saw a mop and it would make sense to have it positioned out the way than in a narrow walkway.
The Price vs. Service Ratio: Nando’s is not cheap. In fact, you can easily pay less elsewhere and get full table service.
Our initial welcome at the door was flat and lacked energy. Had we actually been waited on at our table, we likely would have left with a much more favorable impression of the experience. Don’t get me wrong, they weren’t rude, it was just all a bit average.
The Verdict
Would I eat their food again? Yes, absolutely. The quality and quantity was good.
Would I visit one of their restaurants again? Ideally, no. The dining style just isn’t my thing but if invited to join others or take my daughter, then yes. But I wouldn’t make the decision myself.
The Compromise: I would definitely consider ordering Nando’s for delivery. It seems like the perfect way for me to enjoy their great food without the canteen-style dining experience.
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