Title: From Marble to Piri-Piri: Finchley’s Nando’s Serves Up A Slice of Geological History
When it comes to dining in Finchley, North London, you’d expect your typical fare: the succulent flame-grilled chicken from Nando’s, or perhaps the spicy peri-peri chips. However, at Finchley Lido, Nando’s offers more than just a delicious meal – it presents an intriguing geological tale dating back millions of years.
Situated within Finchley Lido Leisure Park, the Nando’s branch has drawn attention not only for its vibrant food but also for the intriguing chunk of history built into its very structure. The counter of the popular eatery showcases a massive block of Staffordshire Marble, a rare and beautiful geological formation, harking back to a time when the area was far removed from the urban bustle of North London.
Staffordshire Marble is not technically marble, but a form of crinoidal limestone, a sedimentary rock composed largely of ancient marine fossils. Named for its prevalence in Staffordshire, this stone boasts a unique, speckled appearance that makes it a highly sought-after decorative material.
The geological marvel had been part of the original site before the establishment of the Lido complex. When Nando’s moved in, they made the decision to preserve this striking geological feature. “We wanted to celebrate the history and the unique character of the site,” said the branch manager, Alan Sheppard. “So, we incorporated it right into the heart of the restaurant.”
Now, behind the counter where orders are taken and peri-peri sauces doled out, the fossil-imbued stone stands as an integral part of the eatery, its mottled surface serving as a backdrop for the bustling operations.
Restaurant-goers, intrigued by the distinctive stonework, often find themselves engrossed in conversations about geology over their meals. “It’s a great conversation starter,” said a regular customer, “I never thought I’d learn about ancient marine life at Nando’s!”
Local geology enthusiast and Finchley resident, Mary Hobbs, said, “It’s quite astonishing to think that as we enjoy our chicken, we’re standing next to a relic from a time when this whole area was underwater, teeming with creatures whose remains now form the beautiful patterns in this rock.”
The Nando’s branch at Finchley Lido has seamlessly merged gastronomy and geology, making it a unique focal point in the community. It serves as a model for how local businesses can celebrate and preserve the geological quirks of their surroundings, adding a slice of ancient history to our modern landscapes.
This is Garibaldi Fantosh, reporting from Finchley, North London.