Restaurant India News: Nando’s Brings Flame-Grilled PERi-PERi Chicken to Pune with First Outlet at Phoenix Marketcity

Nando’s, the South African brand globally recognized for its flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, has entered the Pune market with its first outlet at Phoenix Marketcity Mall in Viman Nagar. The company refers to its restaurants as Casas—meaning “home” in Portuguese—underscoring its brand identity of warmth and community.

The move adds Pune to Nando’s presence in Delhi, Bengaluru, Chennai, Punjab, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, strengthening the brand’s footprint across seven major Indian cities.

“Pune is a city rich in culture, creativity, and a serious love for food,” said Sameer Bhasin, CEO, Nando’s India. “We’ve felt the excitement from Punekars, who have been visiting us in other cities in India and other countries for a long time, and now we’re ready to serve the bold, unforgettable flavours they’ve been waiting for. We’re proud to bring our PERi-PERi experience to Pune, and Phoenix Marketcity is the perfect place to begin.”

Nando’s is known for using fresh, real ingredients in its bastings, marinades, and sauces, with no artificial flavours or colorants. All chicken is flame-grilled, a cooking style the brand highlights for its taste and quality. Customers can select their preferred PERi-PERi heat level, ranging from mild to Extra Hot.

Beyond food, the restaurant design incorporates vibrant colors, handcrafted art, and Afro-Luso music, reflecting modern African culture and offering an immersive dining environment consistent with its global identity.

The Pune launch is part of Nando’s strategy to expand its presence in India’s competitive casual dining sector. With established operations in six cities prior to this launch, the brand continues to focus on tier-1 markets and high-traffic destinations such as malls. By positioning itself around customisable flavours and distinctive restaurant ambience, Nando’s is targeting urban diners who seek both international cuisine and experiential dining.