Nando's PERi-PERi

Situated in the heart of downtown Chicago on Wabash Avenue, Nando's PERi-PERi brings its world-renowned Afro-Portuguese flame-grilled chicken to Loop diners. Built around the fiery heat of the African bird’s-eye chili (PERi-PERi), the restaurant combines scratch-marinated poultry with open-flame cooking techniques to produce deeply seasoned, smoky-sweet chicken with customizable heat levels.

Glass Deck Seating & Self-Service Rhythm

The venue features a bright, energetic interior with flexible seating arrangements, including comfortable booths and a glass-enclosed deck overlooking the bustling downtown streetscape—an ideal spot for urban people-watching. Operating on a fast-casual hybrid model, guests can order at the counter or scan a QR code at their table. Diners navigate a self-service drink and utensil station alongside an iconic "sauce wall" stocked with bottles ranging from subtle Lemon & Herb to fire-breathing Extra Hot.

Flame-Charred Favorites & Saka Glazes

The menu centers on whole chicken cuts marinated for 24 hours before meeting the open flame to order:

• The Wingman: Six flame-grilled chicken wings tossed in glossy, spicy-sweet PERi-PERi Saka sauce, complemented by cool PERi ranch dip and seasoned PERi Chips.
• Butterfly Chicken: Two juicy chicken breasts joined together and flame-grilled with skin intact, delivering a smoky char and custom chili baste.
• Peri Chicken Rainbow Bowl: A nutrient-dense bowl layered with tender PERi-PERi chicken breast, creamy hummus, pickled red onions, fresh cucumbers, and ancient grains.
• Saka Special: Three succulent boneless chicken thighs basted in signature PERi-PERi Saka glaze, served with warm, buttery garlic bread and crisp fries.

Check Sizes & Portion Value

With featured specials priced around $9.99—such as the Saka Specials—Nando's offers exceptional value for downtown Chicago dining. Individual meals generally average between $10 and $20 per person, while shared chicken platters provide an economical option for group dining. Portions are satisfyingly hearty, with grain bowls and multi-side chicken plates comfortably serving as complete meals.

Dietary Adaptability & Visiting Guidance

Nando's caters generously to dietary preferences; many flame-grilled mains like the Match Plate, Butterfly Chicken, and Portuguese spiced rice are naturally gluten-free. Vegetarian diners can select from hummus and pita appetizers or plant-forward grain bowls. To streamline your visit during peak downtown lunch hours, utilize the table QR code for rapid ordering, and consider pairing your meal with an imported Portuguese Sagres beer to complement the bold chili heat.