Changes in the retail mix of The Boardwalk have created the opportunity for the opening of the first Nando‘s restaurant in Summerstrand.

The new restaurant reflects the latest trend in Nando‘s restaurant design.

“We wanted to create a feeling about our new-look Nando‘s restaurants that is different as far as other restaurant groups are concerned, a uniqueness which is part product and part an intangible emotional reaction to the brand,” said restaurant franchisee Dhiraj Singh.

Nando‘s, which will occupy Billabong‘s former premises at The Boardwalk, will be a full sit-down restaurant, in addition to its popular take-away section.

Singh, who also owns the Nando‘s restaurant at Dolphin‘s Leap in Humewood, says public demand prompted his decision to open another restaurant at The Boardwalk.

“There‘s been a demand from customers of The Boardwalk for a halaal chicken restaurant. This was one of the factors that made it seem worthwhile to go into,” he says.

“Nando‘s is another breakthrough for the tenant mix at The Boardwalk, says Boardwalk general manager Mervyn Naidoo.

“We identified Nando‘s as a desirable franchise for The Boardwalk as it is a solid brand with good following and support from a wide cross-section of the public.

“The restaurant is also a welcome addition to the attractions of the beachfront as it provides our Muslim visitors and guests with another place to eat,” he said.

The exact size of investment and date of opening have not been finalised.

Billabong will be moving to bigger and higher-profile premises at The Boardwalk, says Boardwalk retail manager Mandy O‘Regan.

With the move, Billabong will be able to hold out-door events and demonstrations at the large open area next to the lake.

African Drum Beat, which has been housed in the new Billabong site, has moved to its own home overlooking the lakes in the ‘Asian‘ quarter near the beachfront entrance to The Boardwalk.