Nando’s, the long-awaited, popular South African chain known for its peri peri chicken, is making its Texas debut in Houston. The restaurant was first announced almost a year ago. The globally famous, fast-casual brand is opening at 1717 Post Oak Boulevard on Monday, August 7. To celebrate the grand opening, diners will have three chances to win free Nando’s for a year by participating in a scavenger hunt. On August 8, 10 and 11, Houstonians can search around Uptown area landmarks for golden cockerels in the likeness of Nando’s mascot “Barci” staked into the ground. For clues about the cockerels’ whereabouts, diners can sign up for Nando’s newsletter, or follow the brand on Instagram.

The new Nando’s location features architecture and decor by Houston- and South African-based artists, and boasts an open-flame grill and a bar counter with seven taps. The tap selections include cold brew coffee, four beers and two wines. Diners can enjoy Nando’s classic flame-grilled peri-peri chicken in addition to some dishes and drinks that give a nod to local favorites, such as the PERi Mac and Cheese topped with PERi breadcrumbs, the Frozen Rosalita, a tequila and mezcal margarita riff, and the Passion Fruit Frose. 

Nando’s PERi-PERi Post Oak is open Sunday through Thursday from 10:30 a.m. until 10 p.m. and Friday and Saturday from 10:30 a.m. until 11 p.m. On a final note: those west of Houston might be happy to know that there are plans to roll out another location in Katy at LaCenterra.

Cindy Wang

When she isn’t daydreaming about her next travel destination, Cindy likes to crochet, mix her own cocktails at home, and torment everyone with dad jokes that are so bad they’re good. Otherwise you’ll most likely find her getting cozy with a flat white or a glass of whiskey at a favorite local haunt!