Peri Peri Bistro — Restaurant in Raleigh

Updating my review to a 5 star as management addressed all my concerns. Thanks so much!

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Deleted my original review so I can post another one. First of all, I want to share my appreciation for the manager, Malai. He is always polite, friendly and willing to discuss/listen to feedback. I am going to keep this review straightforward because I spend probably ~$200 a month at this restaurant between personal orders I place at work and eating here with my family. I will say that the chicken is exceptional, and the food quality overall is good. I am concerned however, that some of the recent decisions the owners have made are going to impact the customer experience negatively, and this businesses success long term. I have a vested interest in wanting it to stay open.

Prices have gone up drastically: A half chicken is near $20 (used to be $15 ), a tender bowl is now $18, (used to be $12). The prior prices were high and value for money was below average, now value is non-existent with these price hikes. Because of this, I have stopped eating here as much. The prices are prohibitive for families, I simply cannot justify paying $50 for 2 pieces of chicken, a box of fries and a tender bowl. I understand that the ownership is insistent on hand slaughtered Zabiha Halal, and I commend them for their adherence, however, I would urge them to reconsider if this is truly necessary as very few Muslims care about hand slaughtered, but many care generally about the meat being Halal in general. Purchase cheaper, non-pre frozen, machine slaughtered Halal chicken and drop your prices to what they were previously or lower if you can manage it, the increased volume/margins will help your business significantly.

Menu options have worsened from when you've opened: Several popular menu items are gone, they no longer offer a wings bowl, breast bowl, leg/thigh bowl. They also drastically increased the tender bowl price. They removed salad/lettuce as a topping option on bowls but you can still request it. I would add this back to the menu.

One plus is they did add wings to the menu, which is appreciated.

They also now offer small and larger sized sides. In my opinion, their larger size should be considered a regular, and larger should be 1.5x that amount. Charging $6.99 and providing the quantity they do is disappointing. Specifically about fries, its even more frustrating when you pay that amount and sometimes the box is 50% or 75% full. Prices for sides should go down, quantity should be increased and consistency in quantity should be improved. A simple example is 5 Guys, they give you 2-3x the amount of fries for the same price that this restaurant charges, and theirs is arguably tastier.

Breaking things that aren't broken:

Recently, they changed the formula of their signature dip from a delicious sweet and flavorful dip that complemented the chicken to a new tangy, sharper tasting dip. I can share that everyone in my household much prefers the older dip formula, and i'm confused as to why they would attempt to change something that is delicious and popular already. I would recommend ownership consider how they can reduce prices, increase quantities, and grow their business rather than focusing on downgrading the taste of their menu items.

I can tell that these recent changes have impacted demand. My company has this restaurant as an option for a weekly lunch order once a week. Typically, there are 25-30 orders from FF chicken, since they've upped prices, and changed their menu I can see that there are 5-10 orders at most. I genuinely enjoy the food and have a vested interest in this restaurant staying open, but they need to address their value for money, menu and consistency. Regardless, I will continue to order from here, but on a less...

I recently had the pleasure of dining at a restaurant that not only offered a delightful twist on the popular Nando Peri Peri concept but also served some of the juiciest chicken I've ever tasted. However, I must admit that the ambiance felt more akin to a cafeteria, and the noise level was quite high. If you're willing to overlook these aspects in exchange for exceptional flavors, then this place might be worth a visit.

As I stepped into the restaurant, I couldn't help but notice the cafeteria-style setting. The functional design, with simple tables and chairs, evoked a casual and laid-back atmosphere. The decor, while not particularly extravagant, exuded a certain charm with its vibrant colors and clean lines. Though it lacked the cozy intimacy I typically seek in a restaurant, it provided a unique backdrop for an enjoyable dining experience.

One thing to note is the noise level, which was definitely on the louder side. The open layout and minimal acoustic treatments resulted in a bustling environment, filled with the sounds of conversations and clattering dishes. It might not be the ideal setting for an intimate gathering or a quiet evening, but if you can handle a lively atmosphere, it adds to the energetic vibe of the place.

Now, let's talk about the star of the show: the chicken. If you're a fan of Nando Peri Peri, you're in for a treat because this restaurant takes that concept to a whole new level. The chicken dishes on offer were prepared with utmost care and precision, resulting in succulent, juicy pieces that were bursting with flavor. The marinade was the perfect balance of spices, tanginess, and heat, elevating the chicken to new heights. Each bite was a tantalizing explosion of taste that left me craving more.

In addition to the delectable chicken, the menu offered a variety of sides and accompaniments that perfectly complemented the main attraction. From crispy fries to fresh salads and flavorful rice, the range of options ensured there was something for everyone. The portions were generous, and the presentation was visually appealing, adding to the overall dining experience.

While the ambience may resemble a cafeteria and the noise level might be a bit overwhelming, the standout factor of this restaurant is undeniably the exceptionally juicy Peri Peri chicken. If you're a fan of this flavor profile and don't mind a livelier atmosphere, then this place is a must-visit. However, if you prioritize a quiet and serene ambiance, you may want to consider other options. Ultimately, it's the tantalizing flavors and succulent chicken that make this restaurant shine, even amidst its...

What the restaurant name conjures up in the mind doesn't match what they deliver. It's more of a Mediterranean restaurant with specialty chicken. I'm writing this review about 1.5 weeks after visiting and after travels so I don't remember the details as clearly. However, I do remember being a bit disappointed overall. I remember feeling the food was a bit pricey for sure and took a while to prepare. I remember my wife liked the falafel over rice dish she had and I liked the grilled bbq chicken I had...though I remember only really liking the chicken. We both felt it wasn't bad (in fact the chicken was quite good) but just not worth the $36. The grilled bbq chicken was good and this place would definitely be a goto when I crave it...if it wasn't as pricey. Also, I would like other sides available that more closely match the southern experience of grilled bbq chicken. I love culinary fusion and experimentation but this experience felt like two different culinary personalities/themes packaged together...