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| - Seeing that this is a well review place for a newer spot in Champaign, I had my hopes up.
Walking in last night promptly at 5:00pm, we were the first table seated.
Our hostess was bright, cheerful and had a warm smile. We were seated and brought water, olives, olive oil and fresh bread.
After looking over the menus I was impressed by the authenticity of Nando. The kind of place you have to read the description of each plate or you won't know what it is. (unless you speak Italian) While looking at the menu, the chef came out. Explaining to the table next to us in an impressively think accent, my husband states "I think I'm getting a hard on for the place". Not the classiest of comments for such a classy place, but if you dig authenticity and originality, this is you fantasy.
After ordering, we sat and enjoyed the olive oil and bread. Fresh and stunning in flavor the bread and olives were a prefect balance.
Our meals came quickly and in a perfectly sized portion. None of the mass that you get at places like Olive Garden.
I had gnocchi with a roasted tomato and basil sauce. This was the freshest pasta I may have every had. (And this is saying something since I spent 2 weeks in Italy) This topped it all! The gnocchi was soft and melted in your mouth, while still maintaining its form and consistence with the dish. That sauce was aromatic and full bodied in flavor. With a freshness that seemed to blend into the mystery of the cheese that composed of the bonding item in the bowl.
Over all, this is worth and time and money that you put into you. I don't often go for pasta because it is all the same, but with Nando in town, I am tempted to make this break in tradition permanent.
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