Durham - James RYN Review

It was a snowy night in Durham, but heavy snowfall wouldn't keep me from the local Nando's during my one night stay. First thing to comment on is the terrible Watersgate car park. It is poorly signposted on nearby roads, the entrance has a misleading no-entry sign by it, there are no signs at all to the pedestrian exit, and no signs at all to the exit when driving. I have never seen such a poorly managed car park in the UK!

Either way, we eventually made it to the restaurant, and were quickly seated by a Nandoca. Unfortunately the seat was right by the door, which meant a horrible cold breeze every time it was opened and closed. Adding a porch for double doors would be a good idea! The decoration is pretty standard, and there was no art of particular interest. Nice and clean though so a solid 3/5.

Ordering was quick and easy with a friendly Nandoca, and what followed next was quite impressive: the starter and main course were brought over perfect times apart. The houmous after 5 minutes, and the mains almost exactly 10 minutes after. I don't think the starter/main combination has ever been timed so perfectly, so excellent work there.

As for the food, I don't usually comment on the starter, but the houmous was creamier and lighter than normal, which was much nicer. However, my butterfly burger, and my colleague's butterfly piece were both very dry without much sauce. My chips also severely lacked peri-spice, possibly to the worst extent I have ever witnessed. I sent it back and it was returned quickly to the usual standard I would expect, but it was still disappointing first time round.

Overall, I'd probably return to this Nando's due to the great staff and service. It was a shame my food wasn't right first time round, but this was quickly corrected so wasn't too detrimental to the visit.