Nando’s fired up for fall opening

Despite some setbacks, Nando’s Mexican Café is looking forward to opening this fall at its upcoming Maricopa location.  

During a city council meeting Tuesday, Marijka Anderson, director of operations for Nando’s, confirmed the restaurant will begin serving tacos and margaritas by early November.  

“We are excited,” Anderson told InMaricopa. “It’s been pushed back several times, but we know for sure we’ll be (ready) by November. We’re hoping for October though.” 

That opening will be determined by how quickly construction is completed in the 5,000 square foot restaurant near John Wayne Parkway and Edison Road.  

The restaurant is planning some special activities and souvenirs for its grand opening, which will include a mural unveiling.  

“(The artist is) still sketching it for us right now but we’re trying to do a lot to highlight the community,” she said. 

Anderson said the restaurant anticipates hiring to begin in September as final touches, such as the mural and furniture move-in, are completed.  

“We’ll want to fill about 55 positions,” Anderson said. “We’re hoping it won’t be too difficult finding people for work.” 

Initially, Anderson said they may look at bringing some of their long-time employees to help with the opening and transition to a new city while local employees are hired and trained.