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Nando's Peri-Peri

This fast-food chain comes from South Africa and is more than one would think.  Upscale interiors make the various establishments look like full-service restaurants.  Known for their chicken, everything here is covered in "Peri-Peri" sauce which has varying degrees of fire and a nice undertone of sweetness.  Vegetarian, Gluten Free, Nut Free and Lactose Free selections are all highlighted on the menu and yes, there are some good choices for vegetarians.  On this particular visit I got the Veggie Burger and selected the garlic bread as my side.  The garlic bread was incredibly good.  Baked on bread which bears some relationship to the Hawaiian style soft rolls, it was toasted to perfection and "replete" with garlic and flavor.  Maybe not the best choice for the calorie conscious it is definitely one of those things worth splurging on if not eaten too often.  The burger was well cooked and one of the better veggie burgers I have had -- not dry or mushy or spongy.  Served on more of the Hawaiian style bread it had a cloying flavor on its own, even though the taste was enhanced by the pre-requisite Peri-Peri sauce.  The accompanying tomato and arugula tasted farm-fresh and the chili jam and yogurt sauce made for a great combo.  The only problem with the burger was that it kept slipping out of the bun.  I eventually just got a fork and ate it off the plate.  You have your choice of "heat" on the Peri-Peri sauce.  I went for middle of the road but will up it next time (yes, there will be a next time).  Those who really really like the stuff (which I understand) can up-the-ante with a hotter sauce, as they are available in ketchup-like containers near the silverware and napkins.  They do have salads and I may go that direction next time as I was quite full with my carb load on this trip.  But I will get the garlic bread again.  And the Peri-Peri sauce.  Great "fast food" option.

Fast Food Chicken Joint from South Africa
Multiple Locations
https://www.nandosperiperi.com/

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