Nando's specialize in succulent, Portuguese, flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken guaranteed to spice up your taste buds and served in a warm, fun and vibrant atmosphere.

Each of the restaurants are individually designed with unique features such as chilli shaped lighting and authentic African artwork to adorn the walls. The high protein menu is a big favourite with both Academy and first team squad members, and the partnership came about after Blues Hooker, Rhys Williams frequently visited and became friendly with Ben Browne, manager of the Merthyr restaurant.

There are five restaurants in the Blues catchment area, three in Cardiff (St David's 2, Old Brewery Quarter and Mermaid Quay), Nantgarw and Merthyr.

With a lot of the restaurant staff playing rugby and supporting the Blues, and Academy players enjoying eating at Nando's it's an ideal partnership!

Nando's are proud supporters of the Blues Academy, but their commitment to local rugby charity work goes further, mainly through the Cynon Valley Rugby initiative, supplying kit and coaching for local children who wouldn't have access to it otherwise.

The Academy partnership has also seen Nando's play host for a series of events, from holding a charity night where the players had a go at working in the restaurant, to presence at Academy games and community schemes.

Speaking of the partnership, Blues Academy Manger Gethin Watts said,

"The Academy this year has again lead the field in its delivery of player development with many players enhancing their chances of making the big stage."

"Testament to this is the number of players not only competing at international age grade level but also several players appearing for the senior XV in various competitions."

"Also the age grade team maintained their standing as the team to beat with the U18 winning the national competition for the 3rd time on the trot."

"It must be said that these developments and strides would not be able to be made without the help and support of companies like Nando's"

"Nando's support this year has been fantastic and has really made a difference in what we are trying to achieve."
"They are a company that from the word go have been very personable and our relationship with them thus far had been excellent."

"I certainly hope that we can enhance on this relationship as we as an academy are looking to build a future in the long term and make the Blues the very best in the business."