When Sara describes her first trip to Europe, she recalls fond memories of British scenes, where her world of curiosity and discovery emerged. Amidst this, she felt the bond with her father deepen. And new memories with her sister and mom became etched in her mind. But the most memorable thing that they experienced together, was their trip to Nando's. Food was her memory's lifeline long before this blog was born. When I told her that I knew of a Nando's in Washington DC, her eyes lit up. On our last day of the trip, having forgotten our discussion about Nando's, the memory awakened upon me, and I realized we were only two blocks away, and very hungry!
We headed there, and immediately, excitement grew within us. A giddiness uplifted us, nearly swallowing us whole amongst the glass bottles of special Nando's sauces. And like Sara's first experience, we took the food to go. As we unraveled "pandora's" cardbox box, the scent of the lemon-herb marinated chicken filled the room, as smiles grew on our faces.
The food at this "quick casual" joint is phenomenal. Fresh 1/2 chickens, carefully marinated through a Portuguese treatment process, lovingly placed on tilted grills. Within minutes, fresh, perfected roasted and marinated delights are served along with classic sides. All for the same price as a meal at Cosi. Surprise to us, Washington is the only city in the U.S. that has Nando's Peri. We hope for many many more... and will be there!
Its the kind of place that makes you feel like family. And thats how we left...
Nando's!!! That is still a very clear memory! I can still picture the scene - all of us dining on the best take-out chicken in our hotel apartment. We've gotta see if they have other branches of that chain! :)
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