Living in Chicago, I have a strong and diverse palette, due to the amazing food in the city. There is the most incredible deep dish pizza at Lou Malnati’s, hot dogs with tomatoes and a bunch of other stuff (no ketchup, rookie mistake), and cheese on almost everything. I love going to new food places around town and even doing little food tours for certain things, but lately, the game has been changed.
CHANGED.
So earlier this year, I was perusing Twitter, as I always do. I remember it vividly, it was a cold February day in the city. There wasn’t any snow on the ground, but the wind and the cold kept me inside, huddled on my couch watching Skins on Netflix with my roommates. I remember scrolling through my timeline, seeing tweets about what Harry Styles wore on the red carpet, and what band Rise Records had signed. But no, those couldn’t even compare to the life changing news I was about to get.
They were about to open a Nando’s in Chicago.
Let me rewind and explain some things.
I have always had an eye for British culture and what they love. I’ve known about the “cheeky Nando’s with the lads hah absolute ledge” thing for a while now, so I was hip to it. They have multiple locations around the UK, South Africa, and even some in the States in places such as Washington DC and Baltimore. I’ve always wanted to go. Nando’s is known for their chicken dishes, which are a blend of Portuguese and African cooking. For you vegetarians, you’re covered too. There literally is something for everyone there. I’d google a menu, but do it when you’ve already eaten because you will get hungry, guaranteed.
So, fast forward.
I had already left Chicago for summer break when the restaurant opened. They opened May 20th, and I left May 18th. I was heartbroken, but I knew when I got back to the city for my 3rd semester of school, I knew I had to go. So, back in September of this year, I remember waking up and texting my friends in our group chat “Nandos. Immediately.” or something along those lines. Of course, because my friends are difficult, there was some push back. I was going with or without them. I had a dream.
Of course, my dream came to light when they agreed after looking at a menu. We got on the train, and as soon as we walked out of the station, I was HYPED. Nando’s was just slightly on the horizon, looking as beautiful as ever. As soon as we walked in, I was met with high fives from the host and the most beautiful decorations in my eyesight. I ordered my food and sat in my seat, literally bouncing.
And the food? Oh, let me tell you.
Absolutely to die for. To all of my British friends, I understand you. I understand why your friends are “absolute ledge” and why “cheeky Nando’s” with your “mates” is so “wicked” to you. I get you.
I had their chicken with mashed potatoes and peas and I literally looked like this face: :D. Literally, :D .
Has my life changed since I’ve been to Nando’s? Drastically. I am a new woman. I have been nominated for 6 Grammy’s, I’ve collaborated with Beyoncé, babysat the royal baby (absolute ledge, loves cheeky Nando’s), and even won a Nobel Peace Prize.
Or at least I thought I did.
No, this article wasn’t sponsored by Nando’s Peri-Peri, but it should have been.
Go forth, readers, change your lives, one chicken at a time.
I believe in you. Nando’s believes in you.
