Nando's have brought out a new spice level, and it's so ridiculously hot that those willing to try ithave to sign a ‘liability waiver’ before tucking in.
The South African Portuguese-inspired restaurant chain is well-known for its PERi-ometer, which lets diners pick from several spice and flavour options to marinade their food in.
As Nando’s enthusiasts will know, Extra Hot is usually at the top of the scale, but now, a new addition has been added for 2023 – the VUSA XX HOT, reports The Manc.
Or rather, we should say the spice level has returned, as the VUSA XX HOT is actually back on the menu after a hiatus following its short stint tingling the tastebuds of customers across the country.
Image: Nando's
The only difference now is, you have to sign a ‘liability waiver’.
VUSA XX HOT gets its name from the Zulu word ‘Vusa’, which means ‘excitement and fire’ in English, and is not only a good indicator of what those brave enough to try it out can expect from the challenge, but also gives an insight into why a ‘liability waiver’ is needed.
We’re putting ‘liability waiver’ in inverted commas here because it is, of course, a little bit tongue-in-cheek on Nando’s part as it basically just gets diners to confirm that they know where the Bottomless Froyo machine is in the restaurant, just in case of cooling-down-related emergencies.
The waiver reads: “I certify I’m fully aware it’s fiery, fierce and has earned its rightful place at the top of the PERi-ometer. I’ll enjoy the legendary taste, hot sweats and bragging rights – because every mouthful’s a madness.
“After consideration, I waive my rights to complain about any spicy side effects, including but not limited to, streaming eyes and panting in front of my mates (or date).
“As a safety precaution, I confirm I know where to find the Bottomless Froyo machine”.
Spicy food not really your bag?
Well, Nando’s is also embracing Veganuary this month, and has launched new spiced chickpea-based range of dishes too – including the Spiced Chickpea Wrap and Pitta to go along with the already-released burger version.
These two new dishes take a spiced chickpea and spinach patty, and mix it with hummus, crunchy pink pickled onions, smoky red pepper chutney, and lettuce, all rolled into a tortilla wrap or fluffy pitta.
VUSA XX HOT and the Spiced Chickpea wrap and pitta are now available to try out for order for a limited time only at all UK and Ireland Nando’s restaurants.
Matcha is well and truly taking Leeds (and the country) by storm.
You're probably bored of hearing us talk about matcha, and to be honest we're getting a little bit bored writing about it.
But, this time it's different.
This is M Plus Matcha, a brand-new matcha store that's just opened near Leeds University who not only serve your classic matcha lattes but also bucket loads of freshly-churned gelato.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
And to make things even better, they've got four on offer all at different percentages to suit your taste.
Soft and grassy, smooth and creamy, full and velvety…or deep and bold (they said it, not us) - this spot is truly a matcha lover’s summer paradise.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
If you're not sure what flavour you fancy, the lovely staff are on hand to help and can offer tasters of each percentage before you commit to a cone or a tub so you're not left disappointed.
The space is gorgeously light and airy, complete with matcha-coloured walls and plenty of matcha-coloured seating for you to perch and enjoy your treats.
Images: The Hoot Leeds
Right opposite the Parkinson Building, we can see M Plus Matcha becoming a fantastic hub for students to whack their laptops out for a couple of hours whilst getting their caffeine fix.
The drinks menu includes iced matcha lattes, hot matcha, matcha lemonades and loads more. Basically, if you're of the opinion that matcha tastes like grass then we do not recommend you going.
But if you love it like us, then you're in for a treat.
Yorkshire pub ‘delighted’ to be crowned the best in the region for 2026
Clementine Hall
There's no denying that Yorkshire does pubs properly, but one in particular has been crowned the very best.
This year's National Pub and Bar Awards have been announced, where each year a team of experts pick the very best pub in the 94 counties across the UK.
Taking the number one spot for Yorkshire and the Humber is a fabulous little pub nestled in the bustling market town of Skipton.
The Woolly Sheep Inn is an award-winning, dog-friendly pub that is known for its huge selection of Timothy Taylor's cask ales and hearty pub grub.
Not only can you eat and drink here, but they've also got a few cosy rooms for you to stay in if you're planing on a quick staycation in North Yorkshire.
But don't just take our word for how brilliant it is, here's what the National Pub and Bar Awards had to say about it: "The Woolly Sheep Inn is a vibrant town-centre pub in the heart of Skipton, offering an exceptional combination of high-quality food, outstanding drinks and comfortable accommodation – all delivered with genuine Yorkshire hospitality.
"The team prides itself on creating a warm, welcoming environment where guests can enjoy everything from a relaxed drink at the bar to a celebratory meal or overnight stay. The offer blends traditional pub values with a progressive approach to quality and service, ensuring the site appeals to both loyal locals and visitors to the area."
Announcing the exciting news, The Woolly Sheep Inn said: "We're delighted to share that The Woolly Sheep Inn has been named Yorkshire and the Humber regional winner at the National Pub and Bar Awards 2026.
"This award is a proud moment for everyone at the pub and reflects the years of hard work, care, and commitment that Andy, Drea, and the team have put into making The Woolly Sheep such a special place to eat, drink, and stay in Skipton."
You can have a look at all of the pubs that won in the awards here.
Emily Sergeant -
5th January 2023 
