NANDO’S, home of the legendary Afro-Portuguese flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, has spread its wings in Saudi Arabia and will be opening the doors of its newest Casa on Dec. 8.

The launch at Jeddah’s Red Sea Mall has been highly-anticipated particularly within the coastal city’s emerging youth culture scene. In recent weeks, social media chatter has been heating up as it emerged Nando’s would be injecting its unique personality – and of course its world-famous flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken - into the vibrant community.

Foodmark COO Richard Barclay, of Nando’s, said: “We’re extremely excited to be opening in Jeddah and we look forward to bringing our PERi-PERi flavor to a whole new community of fans.

“Jeddah is a unique place in Saudi Arabia and we share the passions of so many of the young people in terms of art, music and comedy. Like Jeddah, Nando’s is unique and the opening of our newest Casa will bring another game-changing movement to a place that’s already filled with creativity.”

To coincide with the Casa opening, Nando’s will launch a search for people who are breaking the mold in their own way – through music, arts, design, tech or culture. Tapping into the existing +JeddahGhair (unique Jeddah) movement, the +NandosGhair campaign will recognize individuals who are adding to the rich and diverse culture of Jeddah.

Foodmark COO Richard Barclay added: “We want to celebrate people who capture the spirit of Nando’s and recognize their achievements, so through our social media channels and in the Casa we want to hear about people who are truly Nando’s Ghair Game Changers.”

Walking into the Jeddah casa, customers will enjoy a relaxed atmosphere while surrounded by an interior design to evoke the brands heritage. The new restaurant features a bespoke design that is unique to Nando’s Jeddah casa, following the Nando’s ethos that no two Nando’s restaurants are ever the same. It will also bring its mix of trademark bright colors and earthy textures to Jeddah that perfectly reflects the international company’s Afro-Portuguese heritage loved by people worldwide. As well as great food, a welcoming atmosphere and friendly staff, Nando’s customers can also view a host of original artworks by Southern African artists. — SG