Nando’s can only be described as an international phenomenon, and this location does not disappoint. By “international phenomenon,” I mean this was a topic of conversation when I lived in California with 1) a girl who’d spent time in South Africa where it originated and 2) a guy from Israel where they have locations (2 different conversations). I have no idea how we started talking about it, considering the LACK of Nando’s in the states, but somehow it came up, and each one of us loved Nando’s.

It goes without saying that Nando’s makes wonderful Portuguese Peri Peri chicken, and offers a unique dining experience that is… well, possibly too complicated, but fun and part of the allure.

As for this particular location, the staff are generally friendly, and a few are exceptionally interesting (not sure if one of the more interesting ones is still there). I’m tempted to reveal the best table in the place, but will refrain from doing so lest everyone begins to ask to be seated there. The lighting made from Peri Peri sauce bottles is a wonderful touch at this location, but probably makes it hard to change the bulbs.

Details to look for at any Nando’s:

1) sink where you can wash your hands.
2) bottles of different sauces for added flavour
3) the little marker they use to indicate that you’re sitting at the table (because after you’re seated, you’ll need to get up to order your food)
3) save room for the Pastel de Nata custard tarts… a very tasty Portuguese pudding. Natas backwards is Satan -- need I say more? http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pastel_de_nata

Nando’s is a great student restaurant - cheap and tasty, generous portion sizes and food that’s spicy enough for dares between mates. It specialises in chicken dishes, with 4 main levels of spiciness. I find this great, as I’m a real wimp with spicy food. I’ve not yet eaten with anyone brave enough for the spiciest level. Although they specialise in chicken dishes, they also do some mean vegetarian options and some tempting looking salads (but not tempting enough for me!). What’s really handy is that you can order your main dish, like a portion of chicken, and then choose your side and how much you’d like. You can buy sides separately, but usually it’s cheapest to just upgrade your meal, whether that’s with one side portion, two, or a ‘posh’ one like their creamy mash. All this can usually be done for under £10. Drinks seem expensive, but you get free refills, and even with my non-spicy food I definitely needed them! It’s not a unique gourmet cuisine experience, but it’s good, affordable nosh and sometimes that’s all you want.

This is a newly opened Nando's and is really lovely. It is conveniently located near the Gloucester Green bus station in the heart of central Oxford. There is a public coin-meter car park just across the street, but finding a parking space can be difficult at mealtimes. The food is delicious and the service is quick and efficient. The speciality is Portugese grilled peri-peri chicken available in a variety of levels of spicy hot flavour - or, if you're less ambitious, then plain. If you prefer takeaway, you can place a phone order in advance to have it ready when you arrive. There is also another Nando's in Cowley - see my other review for more about that one.