THE POPULAR Nando's restaurant in Dorchester is set to reopen its doors later this month after being shut for almost six months, bosses have announced.

The restaurant, based at Brewery Square, was closed down as part of the national lockdown in March, amid the coronavirus pandemic.

Since government rules on restaurants were eased, Nando’s began gradually reopening its branches from July onwards.

Dorchester residents have been left wondering when they can get their chicken fix - but their prayers seem to have been answered with news that the doors will reopen soon.

A spokesman for the popular restaurant chain said: “I can confirm that Dorchester Nando’s will be reopening in the next couple of weeks.”

In line with changes to its branches across the country, Nando’s will also introduce a number of measures at its Dorchester restaurant to enforce social distancing and protect its staff and customers.

The restaurant will have a reduced capacity which means there will be fewer tables available at any one time. Customers are being warned that waiting times to be seated could be a little longer than usual as a result.

Tables will accommodate up to a maximum of six people and diners will be greeted at the door by a Nando’s staff member.

Customers can expect a new service style including virtual queuing together with order and pay at the table via their phones.

Nando’s will offer a reduced menu to help the restaurant team maintain social distancing in the kitchen and food preparation areas, but Nando’s favourites such as PERi-PERi chicken wings, halloumi and PERi chips will still be available.

All food, drinks, cutlery, PERi-PERi sauces and napkins will be brought to the table directly by a staff member.

A spokesman for Nando’s added: “The new measures are designed to minimise contact with customers at other tables and avoid queues within the restaurant to maintain safety.

“Returning customers should rest assured that their safety as well as the safety of our team is a top priority.

“Things might be a little different for a while, but we hope the changes won’t drastically affect the laid back Nando’s experience that people have come to know and love.”