Nando's has launched its highly-anticipated Christmas menu, featuring three festive specials available until January 5. Food enthusiasts across the UK have been buzzing about these limited-time offerings, prompting our investigation into whether they live up to the hype.
The Festive Line-Up
The popular peri-peri chicken chain is treating customers to three distinct Christmas creations: an innovative starter of bubble and squeak croquettes, the substantial Total Sleigh burger, and a decadent warm chocolate orange brownie for dessert. Each item promises to deliver that signature Nando's flavour with a distinct festive twist.
Bubble and Squeak Croquettes: An Unexpected Delight
Described by Nando's as "Santa's new fave snack-ette" and their twist on a Portuguese classic, these croquettes contain shredded Brussels sprouts, mash, and red onion, served with Caesar dressing for dipping.
When they arrived at the table, their appearance raised immediate concerns. They looked considerably darker than the promotional images suggested, and the aroma of Brussels sprouts was particularly potent. Despite initial reservations based on appearance, the first bite delivered a complete surprise.
The croquettes were exceptionally crispy and packed with flavour, perfectly complemented by the accompanying sauce. At just £4.95, they represent an excellent start to any festive meal at Nando's and could easily convert even the most sceptical sprout avoiders.
The Total Sleigh Burger: A Festive Feast
This substantial creation features a chicken breast topped with melted cheese, two bubble and squeak croquettes, caramelised onions, lettuce, and Churrasco PERinaise in a rustic roll. The burger comes with a side of PERi-chicken gravy for dipping, making it Nando's largest burger offering to date.
The burger delivered on taste, with the gravy adding a wonderfully festive touch to the experience. However, the rustic roll proved somewhat disappointing – a softer bread option would have significantly improved the overall texture and enjoyment.
Priced at £10.95 (with an additional £7 for two sides), this burger provides substantial value. As with many restaurant meals, customers should manage their expectations regarding appearance compared to marketing photographs – the focus here is firmly on the bold, festive flavours.
Warm Chocolate Orange Brownie: A Game-Changing Dessert
Nando's describes this dessert as "super fudgy and covered in a layer of melty chocolate with a festive orange twist", served warm with vanilla gelato when eating in.
This dessert represents a significant improvement in Nando's dessert offerings. The brownie featured an incredibly soft, almost batter-like texture that contrasted pleasantly with firmer brownies commonly found elsewhere. The chocolate orange combination worked perfectly to create a genuinely festive dessert experience.
At £5.25, this brownie could easily become a reason to save room for dessert, potentially changing perceptions about Nando's capabilities beyond their famous chicken.
Verdict on Nando's Christmas Offerings
The Christmas menu at Nando's successfully brings festive cheer to their established flavour profile. While appearances might not always match the marketing (particularly with the croquettes), each item delivers where it matters most – on taste.
The bubble and squeak croquettes stand out as the surprise package, overcoming initial visual reservations to become a genuinely enjoyable starter. The Total Sleigh burger provides a satisfying festive meal, though the bread choice could be improved. The chocolate orange brownie marks a welcome elevation of Nando's dessert game.
All three items are available until January 5, giving customers plenty of time to experience these festive specials for themselves.
