**Nando’s to Bring Free Food and Festivities to New York City This Summer**
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Nando’s, the beloved chicken chain renowned for its peri-peri flavours, is set to make a splash in New York City with a temporary pop-up event this summer. The pop-up, launching from 27 June to 17 July, will be located at 341 Broome Street in SoHo, offering visitors a taste of its renowned flame-grilled chicken, accompanied by an array of activities including music performances, merchandise, and World Cup watch parties.
The event promises an exciting range of free food items for guests. Diners can look forward to Nando’s signature peri-peri chicken, generously coated in the brand’s famed sauce, which is made from the African Bird’s Eye Chilli, a spice that has a rich culinary history in Mozambique. Besides the chicken, attendees will also be treated to peri-salted chips and wing roulette, ensuring that there is something for everyone to enjoy. Notably, a collaboration with Utopia Bagels will take place during the event, slated to run from 4 to 11 July.
The pop-up’s launch day on 27 June is particularly special, as it will feature a free peri-peri offering from 12 p.m. to 3 p.m. On that day, guests can expect an “Extra Hot” watch party hosted by British rapper Aitch and influencer Max Khadar, coinciding with the World Cup match between Panama and England. Other watch parties led by online streamer Marlon and sports outlet Offball will also take place throughout the event.
Initially established in Johannesburg in 1987, Nando’s combines the spicy flavours of the African Bird’s Eye Chilli with Portuguese culinary traditions of lemon and garlic. With over 400 locations globally, including several across the United States, the chain has become a cultural phenomenon, particularly in the UK, where it enjoys a dedicated fanbase.
Despite the chain’s popularity, it has yet to establish a permanent presence in New York City, prompting enthusiasm and calls for more locations from desperate fans on social media. Many of the pop-up’s attendees have voiced their longing for a more lasting establishment, with comments flooding in on Nando’s Instagram. One fan wrote, “No I need a restaurant asap pls in NYC ❤️,” underscoring the widespread demand for the brand.
The pop-up will not only feature mouthwatering food but will also showcase performances from local artists, including the likes of Aqutie and ASAP Nast, among others. Visitors can also find exclusive merchandise from sustainable brands such as Coco Cultr and My Perlitas, adding an element of community and local creativity to the event.
Some high-profile fans have expressed their fondness for Nando’s, positioning it firmly in British culture. Notably, Prince William is among those who have publicly declared their love for the chain. During a meeting with Nando’s co-founder Robert Brozin, he mentioned that it was introduced to him by one of his officers, proclaiming, “It’s very good.”
Additionally, Nando’s continues to make its mark on pop culture. Recently, the chain promoted actor Tom Holland’s non-alcoholic beer brand, Bero, through its Instagram, showcasing a video where he discusses his go-to order at Nando’s, illustrating the actor’s fondness for the brand’s half chicken and peri chips.
In another collaborative effort to celebrate the World Cup season, Nando’s is partnering with Nike this summer. Nike’s House of Innovation in New York City will host a “Taste of Home” event on 26 June, providing a fusion of football culture, music, and fashion, with Nando’s catering the affair.
As the city buzzes with anticipation for Nando’s pop-up experience, it stands as a unique opportunity for New Yorkers to indulge in flavoursome cuisine while enjoying various entertainment offerings. The event is not just a celebration of food but also a nod to the vibrant community spirit and cultural connections that Nando’s continues to inspire.