Nando's  The Brewery, Romford

When The Brewery opened it’s doors as a shopping and leisure centre in 2001, the Nando’s concept was fairly unknown. Fast forward six years and this restaurant chain has become a familiar sight on most British high street’s. In fact, I can’t quite believe my ears every time I’m asked ‘Have you been to Nando’s before?’ by the waiting staff. I very much doubt they hear the answer ‘No’ anymore!

For anyone who hasn’t yet been, or in case you need reminding, the concept of Nando’s is simple...  The food: Chicken, Chicken and more Chicken! Choose what part, how spicy you’d like it and watch it being cooked in front of you. Oh, and there’s your token salads and a steak roll if you’re feeling rebellious. The service: A warm welcome on arrival, taken to your table then you order and pay at the till yourself.

Although a chain, every Nando’s restaurant is designed differently across the country. This gives each venue its own character so unlike many other growing enterprises you don’t feel like you’re walking into some generic building. are top of the pile.

So on to our meal…

Starting with the Red Pepper Dip & Warm Pitta, I can’t recommend this enough. The dip is slightly spicy so a perfect warm up for the peri-peri sauce coming. Just dip and eat.

For main course I opted for a quarter chicken with spicy rice and garlic bread. Choosing the ‘medium’ heat of peri-peri sauce (Nando’s very own chilli    condiment) the meat is tender and soft, yet has enough chilli bite to keep my cold drink within range. Grilled to perfection in front of us, you don’t get chicken cooked liked this anywhere else.

My girlfriend chose 5 chicken wings with spicy rice and coleslaw. Again cooked in front of us but she could only handle ‘lemon & herb’ heat - best to be safe than sorry I suppose.

The rice we had is a light, fluffy side dish with a hint of spice. I turned the heat up slightly by adding a touch of garlic peri-peri.

Our meal’s were served within 10 minutes of ordering, piping hot and tasting great.

- a traditional Portugese cake with a rich, soft filling. If you have a sweet tooth you’ll love this dessert.

The Nando’s story continues to develop, with a record number of new restaurants opening in 2007, but as long as the food stays this good and they still refuse to become a franchise I see no harm in that.

Review by Steve Davies.

To book a table at Nando’s Romford call 01708 733697

For info visit www.nandos.co.uk