Nando's

Nando's is a South African-Portuguese casual dining chain with over 400 locations across Australia, making it one of the country's most ubiquitous restaurant brands. The concept originated in Johannesburg in 1987 and expanded globally across more than 30 countries, becoming particularly popular in Australia where the brand has been present since the 1990s. The culinary centrepiece is peri-peri chicken — a flame-grilled preparation marinated in sauces made from African bird's eye chillies grown in Mozambique and Portugal, blended with garlic, lemon, and various herbs.

The menu at Australian Nando's locations is built around whole and half chickens, quarter-chicken combinations served with two sides, and a range of wraps, burgers, and salads. Customers select their preferred heat level at the counter — Lemon & Herb (mild), Mango & Lime, Medium, Hot, Extra Hot, or Extra Extra Hot — and the same peri-peri sauce profile is available at every table. Side dishes include the signature peri-peri chips, corn on the cob, Portuguese rice, and coleslaw.

The casual dining format operates as a counter-service model at most Australian locations, with diners ordering at the counter, receiving a table number, and having food brought to the table. The atmosphere is family-oriented and relaxed, designed for quick, affordable meals. Nando's is a reliable choice for groups with diverse tastes, as the heat-level selection allows individuals to calibrate spice tolerance independently.

Prices are competitive for a sit-down dining experience, with full meals typically falling in the AUD 15–30 range per person. Australian Nando's locations are found in major shopping centres, high-street strips, and suburban precincts across all states and territories, including in Darwin, Adelaide, Brisbane, Sydney, Melbourne, and Perth. The brand regularly introduces limited-edition sauces and seasonal menu items alongside its core offering. No reservations are required — the format is walk-in only.