Nando's

The appeal of this Portuguese-inspired chain lies, like that of most restaurant franchises, in its simplicity, lack of ceremony and keen prices. Though Nando’s isn’t quite a fast-food chain – with proper wooden tables and chairs, and a menu centred on freshly grilled chicken – the concept is not a million miles away (meal deals, bottomless refills on drinks, and a super-casual vibe). Chicken served with spicy peri peri sauce of varying degrees of fierceness is the mainstay, and is worth sticking to. Grilled halves and quarters are crisp skinned and juicy inside, while side dishes (flavoursome corn on the cob; thick-cut, slightly school-canteen chips) make for a filling, decent-value meal. Vegetarian dishes (halloumi and roast portobello mushroom wraps, say, or bean burgers) are served too, and fairly tasty. Staff on our last visit were chirpy and efficient. Overall, for a quick, straightforward meal (especially if you’ve got kids), Nando’s smacks the Burger Kings of this world clear out of the water.