Beckton - Ash Review

As a West London boy/man, it's not often i venture in the dark realms of East London. Yet i found myself being invited to join my brother-in-laws for a quick catch up and a trip to Beckton Nando's for an early Sunday dinner.

The 4 of us arrived at Gallions Reach where there is free parking right outside this branch. A good start. We huddled up inside to what i was informed was a fairly newly renovated and expanded restaurant and were pleasantly welcomed. I was, dare i say it, impressed. Upon entering, you're greeted with the site of the tills, but more importantly, the kitchen behind where the peri-peri magic happens. Rows of juicy, marinated, flame-grilled chicken is the perfect site to warm up the soul of the cold and hungry. High ceilings, good decor and a large number of tables, all with happy clientele also bode well.

Until of course we were informed we would have to wait a few moments to get a table. (Darn those other happy customers!) The wait was only a few minutes which gave me enough time to review the menu which I oft ignore given my usual Nando's order is engraved in my minds. It was then i spotted something different; 'churrasco thigh burger'. I was intrigued and opted for this in a casual Medium spice with peri-chips and coleslaw (and some secret sauce! yum!!) and then made a last minute decision to get some Hummous with Peri-Peri drizzle to start!

We ordered swiftly without hassle (although our loyalty card/stamp couldn't be taken so we had to retain our receipts) and went to sit down after a quick visit to the drinks and condiments stations. All clean and more than enough bottles, napkins and cutlery available.

The branch was obviously quite busy given the time but all the food arrived within 15mins. The Hummous and Peri-Peri drizzle did it's job well and kept hunger at bay until my order arrived. The churrasco thigh burger was a hit. Juicy and really nicely flavoured thigh chicken with a generous layer of coleslaw and sauce. The only downside i would say would be the burger bun/roll itself being a little hard for my liking. I noticed across the table one of my brother-in-laws had actually opted for the wrap which, fair play to him, seemed like the better choice!

We were all impressed with this new addition to the menu and suffice to say, i was quite impressed with Beckton Nandos. I wasn't expecting much given it's location (West is best after all) but actually, this branch did well. Really well in fact. I didn't require use of the other facilities but everything i saw pointed to a fairly well-run branch where the food standards are as you would hope and expect.

I was obviously slightly disappointed by the hard burger bun, and if i'm being harsh, would say the service was standard and not as friendly or welcoming as i've had in the past. But given it was quite a busy night and we were given everything we needed, it's hardly a complaint.

Overall, a good experience and a great meal. So it seems i may have a safe haven whenever i make that long and arduous journey to the perilous East of London!