Austin Welcomes Nando’s: Flame-Grilled Chicken to Expand
Austin is about to get a taste of South Africa with the arrival of Nando’s Peri-Peri, a popular flame-grilled chicken restaurant known for its zingy peri-peri spice. The restaurant is gearing up to open its first location in the city later this year, and there are already plans to explore additional sites in the Austin area.
Opening Date Confirmed
The inaugural Nando’s venue will be located at 1825 McBee St. in the Mueller neighborhood, with a grand opening set for November 12. Chief Brand Officer Sepanta Bagherpour shared the news, expressing excitement about bringing this beloved chain to a new market.
Looking at Austin and Beyond
Nando’s, which has roots in South Africa and a history spanning over 37 years, started its journey in the United States a little over a year ago with a location in Houston. The chain has been eyeing the Houston, Austin, and Dallas markets for a while, with interest in Austin dating back at least four years. According to Bagherpour, plans for the McBee Street site were officially filed with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation in July 2023.
Plans for Expansion
The company is already preparing to open a third location in Houston, but the number of restaurants it will establish in Austin depends largely on the performance of the first few and the availability of suitable locations. Nando’s is currently exploring areas within the city limits, particularly looking at dynamically buzzing neighborhoods, which should feature a mix of residential, shopping, and office environments.
Key Factors in Site Selection
When deciding on where to set up shop, Nando’s takes several factors into account. Among these elements are population density and the community’s openness to spicy and international cuisines. The team also relies heavily on the “gut feelings” of its property scouts, who dedicate substantial time visiting potential locations to assess customer flow and the overall atmosphere of the area.
Bagherpour explained that their team spends weekends and weekdays alike, observing how busy the streets are, what other businesses are in the neighborhood, and the community vibe. This meticulous approach led them to fall in love with the Mueller area in Austin.
Commitment to the Community
While Nando’s has not disclosed specific terms of its lease in Mueller, they typically engage in 10-year leases with options to renew. Chief of Development and Design for Nando’s North America, Melinda Nettelbeck, assured that the company plans to be a part of the Mueller and greater Austin community for the long haul. The restaurant is collaborating with Michael Hsu Office of Architecture and Trinity Constructors for its Mueller location to ensure a great look and experience for diners.
Community Impact and Market Engagement
With Nando’s making its debut in Austin, many are excited about the addition of this vibrant dining option, which not only promises a unique culinary experience but also brings job opportunities to the area. As the popularity of international cuisine continues to rise, having a reliable destination for spicy, grilled chicken will likely charm both residents and visitors alike.
Next Steps
Those interested in future Nando’s locations should keep an eye on the company’s performance in Austin, which will play a key role in determining how quickly and where additional spots will pop up in the city.
From its first opening at McBee Street, Nando’s aims to establish a strong presence in Austin’s food scene while embracing the culture and community that makes this city special.
Looking Ahead
As Austin continues to grow as a culinary hotspot, the arrival of Nando’s signifies just one of many exciting developments on the horizon. Residents can look forward to enjoying more dining options in the future while savoring the vibrant flavors of peri-peri chicken right at home.
