Reviews Cesco's Portuguese Restaurant And Pub

Zomato
Carlee
+5
What a gem. From the outside you are unsure but once you walk in you have amazing staff treating and making you feel right at home. The food is a winner, amazing Flavour and served beautifully. Go give it a try. You won’t be sorry
Feb 13, 2019
Zomato
Matt Cross
+5
What an absolute gem of a place. Fantastic vibe and service. Staff are friendly, always greeting you as you arrive. Very attentive, making sure you're served and with a smile. Fast becoming a regular weekly spot.
Feb 07, 2019
Zomato
Graham
+5
Best porra restaurant in the north
Been coming here for over 20 years
Service and food perfect
The peri peri chicken is outstanding and Thursday espitada day each all you can
Aug 13, 2018
Zomato
Razmataz
+5
Nothing changes, we haven't been for years and popped in for lunch. Same friendly service, fantastic authentic, honest food. The kgs of King prawns were the best we've had in Joburg. Definitely a hidden gem that never fails to deliver, well supported by an impressive collection of regulars. No pretences and a must one in your life
Jul 21, 2018
Zomato
Amith Sheopershad
+5
Cesco’s Randburg is a hidden gem. Great friendly staff and awesome service. The menu offers a bit of something for everyone. The food is flavorsome and the portions are very generous.
Jul 21, 2018
Zomato
Justin Le Roux
+5
The best chicken and prawns in Joburg, no doubt about it. Better than any of the ‘institutions’ in the south. With all respect! Great vibe, hands on owners, ice cold beers and always busy. Great specials during the week as well. Also my favorite Trinchado. Try the pork trinchado as well, it might be better than the beef. I can’t decide....
Jun 13, 2018
Zomato
Niklesh Badhur
+5
All I can say is "wow", went out to Cesco's today to escape the loneliness and I was truly amazed by the service and the food, right from from car guard until payment.
I ordered a seafood platter and loved everybit of it, the fish was soft and juicy, the calamari was perfectly cooked and the prawns to die for. Compared to other similar food places, this is definitely the best and will become a regular spot for me.
The only gripe is the plate could have been bigger and this is because i didn't have place on my plate for the delicious sauces.

Feb 01, 2018
Zomato
Andre Breytenbach
+3.5
Great service great food great hospitality. I'll be back. Just a tad attention to cleaner bathrooms please I hate drying my hands with toilet paper
Dec 08, 2017
Zomato
Food Lover Deluxe
+4
An old favourite that has stood the test of time and defies the adage location, location, location. Instead it exemplifies service, quality and value for money. A great place for groups or just to sit alone and one of the few eateries to separate smoking and non-smoking areas correctly. Parking can be a bit of a hassle but usually works out ok.
Dec 03, 2017
Zomato
Riona Arjoon
+3.5
Tried out the lunch buffet. Food was good. Loved the steak espetada and the chilli sauce. I would suggest giving dessert a skip. Pub style and I noticed alot of specials on other days.
Aug 10, 2017
Zomato
Hengie
+4
I absolutely love the food at Ceco's. Their prawn curry and espetata is just unbeatable. I do, however, find them to be a little noisy, but if you're into the typical pub lunch vibe then it's just perfect. Their service is also great.
Aug 06, 2017
Zomato
Lisa Pi
+3.5
Easy going restaurant with tasty simple foods, and good service.
Warm bread is served before every meal which is hard to resist.
I had two starters - grilled sardines and pickled octopus, and they were both very tasty. The octopus well seasoned and soft.
Jun 25, 2017
Zomato
Cheryl Gilfillan Dinkelmann
+4
There is no reason to be put off by this Portuguese Pub's location. I will happily take a romantic date here anytime. The seafood is sublime and the fresh chili and garlic condiments are a match made in heaven. The service was quick and cheerful.
Feb 27, 2017
Zomato
Owen Tennant
+3.5
Have not been here for more than 10 years and felt the need to check it out again. Nothing has changed , thought I recognized the car guards , become pricey and beer as important as the food. I enjoyed the hake and calamari combo. My wife is a prawn lover but reported not as good as Adega or J diner ?😕 , not the sort of place a group of girls would go for a lunch 😑 or guys in suites , very much dominated by okes loving being out of the office 😏 , industrial pub grub venue with a dedicated following 👍
Dec 21, 2016
Zomato
Ricardo Flores
+4
Cool ambiance & nice food. Should be more Portuguese. Not many (real) Portuguese options in the menu. Quite busy on weekends. A place to come back
Nov 02, 2016
Zomato
Diederik Van 't Hof
+4
It is a real pub - unpretentious and full of character. Must be 50 years' worth of real pub-type decor and memorabilia on the walls and chilled music makes for a very atmospheric venue.

It is straight and simple good Portuguese food. Grilled calamari heads as a starter had a very nice lemon flavour hidden in the sauce, which was nicely complimented by the table peri-peri sauce. Could not fault the Trinchado mains - tender and in a rich gravy.

Highly recommended.
Jul 11, 2016
Zomato
C_AXE
+4
went for a family dinner to cescos,absolutely divine food...tasty prawns and steak..Staff and management are very friendly,nice atmosphere over all :)
Jun 29, 2016
Zomato
Lauren333
+5
THE BEST #Calamari #Sangria #espresso #1920cognac and company.
Awesome vibe and service.
WELL DONE GUYS, KEEP IT UP.
We will surely be back 😊🍵
Jun 16, 2016
Zomato
Gramo
+5
Been going to Cescos for over 10 years now and each time gets better and better
We go there each Friday for the full chicken and salad/chips and 2M beer

Service is second to none, great atmosphere and all round amazing restaurant
May 08, 2016
Zomato
Garth Williamson
+4.5
The best Portuguese restaurant in the area. Based on quality portion steaks , veggies, seafood size and cooking preparation. Prices are very competitive. Waiters and staff are extremely friendly and professional.
May 07, 2016
Zomato
Ilan Ben-David
+4.5
Probably the best Portuguese restaurant in Gauteng... Honestly some of the best prawns I've ever had in my life, better than most countries I've been to anyway... Very helpful and friendly staff, good atmosphere and fast service. Absolutely no complaints.
Mar 23, 2016
Zomato
Joydeep Majumdar
+4
It's a little restaurant hidden in a corner, but the food has a surprising punch. To start with its a sports bar atmosphere. The interior has a rustic feeling. The food is what's important, the starters ordered a prawn and halloumi skewers, it was delightful. For the mains ordered a grilled salmon and roasted veggies. The salmon was excellent along with a tangy sauce, first time tried that combination. Over all it was a good experience, priced reasonable . Must try of you are passing by.
Mar 16, 2016
Zomato
Kat Koebke
+4
What a hidden gem! Doesn't look like much from the outside, also not in the best area. The interior definitely has a pub feel to it. But the food is great. Had the chicken and prawn combo with lemon and herb. Very tasty. Prices are also reasonable. We got fresh ciabatta to nibble on. Staff was also friendly and manager very attentive. Will definitely be returning!
Feb 27, 2016
Zomato
Spiced Weasel
+4.5
Stumbled onto this great place, not a pub but has a relaxing atmosphere, clean and spacious this place is a great to have a lazy lunch and drinks. Tasty starters and yummy mains, great value for money and the herb and chilli dips on the table added to the taste. Our waiter was friendly and on top form, leading to a hassle free mealtime.
Feb 20, 2016
Zomato
Katherine
+4
Some of the best Portuguese food in town as far as I'm concerned! I called ahead early one Friday evening to find out if they had space or if I needed to book. I was told not to worry, just come through. When we arrived the place was packed but we had no problem getting a spot. To start we shared prawn rissoles (my weakness) and chorizo. The rissole was tasty although I have had better. The chorizo on the other hand was divine! Honestly the best I have ever tasted. They also bring fresh Portuguese rolls to the table, with the most amazing peri peri sauce- not too hot but oh-so-good! We polished off the entire little bowl. For mains I had the prawn and chicken combo, which was served with salad and potatoes. The prawns were cooked to perfection and basted with the most delicious sauce. I found my chicken a little tough and by the time I finished the prawns l I was pretty full so took the rest of the chicken home. There service was really efficient and our waitress was on the ball. We never had to try and wave her down for anything. The restaurant is quite reasonably priced too. Oh, and don't let the location fool you or scare you, it's SO worth it!
Jan 23, 2016
Zomato
Nicola Veitch
+4
Cescos is a hidden freaking gem! Doesn't look like much from the outside but once you enter, it is vibey inside and the service is top notch!
We opted for the Kg of prawns. They were perfectly cooked and came in a delicious lemon butter sauce, which was happily mopped up after with a side of chunky chips.
Also tasted the sole and calamari which made me wish that I had ordered a platter, as that too was Devine!
My definite go-to spot for seafood from now on!
Jan 20, 2016
Zomato
Shannon Correia
+4
The location of Cesco's doesn't seem right until you get there, but when you do, you realize that it's a hidden gem. The Portuguese food on offer is great and you can enjoy a restaurant or bar feel, depending on where you choose to sit. Everyone was incredibly friendly, from the staff to the other guests. I recommend trying the milho and the prego- both being on the more affordable side of the menu. Great restaurant to try out, I will be back!
Dec 08, 2015
Zomato
Caron Whitfield
+5
I have been coming here for over 14 years so my review may be tinged with years of fond memories -from year end parties, intimate dinners and one noteworthy wake...

There is a distinct smell that accompanies each visit..garlic, chicken, prawns and cigarettes- and it's as welcoming as a hug from your grandmother.

As for the menu, I have enjoyed prawns, chicken, trinchado, prego rolls and so much more and have yet to come away unsatisfied.

I love this spot because it reminds me of the warmth of friendship, the laughter and love that I have experienced over the years.

This place will always hold a special place in my heart.

Note to all..you have to try the parsley and garlic that accompanies the bread before the meal..to die for!
Dec 04, 2015
Zomato
Roxy Bruinenberg
+4
Food is really good here, we had their calamari, prawns and fish starters and all was delicious! Definitely would advise for people to go for authentic Portuguese food!
Nov 07, 2015
Zomato
Alma Pretorius
+4.5
Cesco's is a fantastic pub.  There are always a nice buzz going on - bartenders and waiters/waitresses are extremely good!!!

When you order food, you get bread rolls beforehand with 2 sauces ... a parsley-garlic sauce in oil (reallllly good!) and a very very tasty peri-peri sauce (not too hot!).  They are absolutely fabulous on the bread rolls.

31 October 2016
DO NOT order the Chorizo starter ... a side plate filled with (I didn't count) probably 15 small slices of Chorizo.  R53.  ????  No chips, no bread, no side dish with these Chorizo slices.  Shame on you!  Yes, I'm well aware Chorizo is expensive, but (1) remove it from your menu or (2) serve it with bread rolls / chips / rice.  Something!

Food ....  Their Prego Roll is great!

Yesterday Hein had their Portuguese Steak - I would say a little overpriced at R108, but he said it was really good.  It came with nice veggies and potato wedges.

I ordered the Seafood platter for 1.  (R130).  Gosh, it was just great stuff!!!!  Prawns were amaaazing!  Calamari was tender, mussels yummy and fish ... soooo good!!!  Especially with some of the parsley-garlic sauce on top!!!!

This is really a good neighbourhood pub/restaurant!!!
Sep 05, 2015
Zomato
Yolleen
+3.5
If you drive in the strijdom park area you will miss this spot. Its definitely a hidden gem. It has a pub relaxed feel. The decor is very relaxed and it has ample seating. The restaurant was packed last night. The menu is very different to what is on zomato. It has been updated with tons of different options. Specials are also displayed on the wall which is great for catching our eye but tacky as it's printed on a4 sheets and nothing fancy. Our table had espetada, jalapeno fillet and the seafood platter for one. The food was delicious. The steak was just perfect and the seafood was yummy. Definitely more a seafood platter for two. Its a great place to get good food but just dont expect red carpet decor. Its simple but good.
Aug 28, 2015
Zomato
Tim Ross
+4
Cescos is a gem near Strijdom park. Lots of beers on tap which I'm happy about. It has a pub vibe about it. Had the jalapeño steak. What an awesome sauce! Will be back.
Aug 28, 2015
Zomato
Christine Van Zyl
+4.5
Had an amazing lunch ! Prawns are always so tasty and can't beat there secret chili sauce with absolutely everything .. A definite must !!!
Aug 12, 2015
Zomato
Brad Visagie
+4.5
Trindchowda is on another level. Great service great food. A little hidden gem. Highly recommended for value and flavour. Good selection of Draughts.
Jun 23, 2015
Zomato
Craig Amos
+4
Started going to Cescos for the last few months and what a no fuss, good food place. Doesn't pretend...it is what it is. Chicken and seafood is really good and good quality too. Everything is well priced and good value. One of my favourite places right now. Try it out if you're in the area.
May 21, 2015
Zomato
Christopher
+5
I absolutely love Cesco's! Great staff, great food. I try to get there at least once every couple of months. Try the Prawn Au Gratin as a starter and their Trinchado main is amazing (tip, try a fried egg on top;)
Apr 17, 2015
Zomato
Bridget Harpur
+4.5
Fun night out, festive, good service and delicious prawns. Unpretentiousness at its best. When you're in the parking lot and you wonder "where the f am I?" then you're there.
Apr 15, 2015
Zomato
Carly Cane
+5
This is my absolute favourite spot for prawns in Joburg. Nowhere compares! They're not particularly cheap but the price is absolutely worth it!!!! Service is always friendly, albeit not fast.
Apr 01, 2015
Zomato
Mishkah Roman-Cassiem
+3.5
Don't judge this "book" by its cover. Cesco's dinner last night was surprisingly good. Friendly and attentive waiters and great food at a good price.Siraaj Cassiem
Nov 22, 2014
Zomato
Candy
+4.5
We had dinner at Ceco's again last night, the food was excellent with service to match. We have had dinner and lunch there a few times and it's always great, you never wait long and the staff are friendly and efficient everytime. Best calamari by far, i can also recommend the oxtail and lamb shank
Oct 11, 2014
Zomato
Kaz In Jozi
+3.5
Cesco's is such an institution. Great place to meet friends on a Friday, but if you're an espetada fan, go and eat as much as you like on Thursdays. Love the fact that the clientele range from plumbers to CEOs and everyone loves the place. Service is always good and staff tend to know regulars by name. Seafood highly recommended and the prawn curry is a feast.
Aug 31, 2014
Zomato
Big Al
+3.5
This is an excellent 'Friday Night' venue to spend with friends after a tough week. The food is consistently excellent, the service always good coupled with a relaxing pub type atmosphere.
Aug 09, 2014
Zomato
Chris Badenhorst
+3.5
Great seafood in Randburg, great grill as well, I always take the Kabeljou when they have, or else pie of the day (lamb and mint pie rocks), been here so many times the owners and waiters greet me by name, great to go with a group of friends and watch rugby & soccer. Weird that they close at 5 on Sat and closed on Sun.
Aug 02, 2014
Zomato
GiGi
+3.5
Vibrant atmosphere and a warm welcome, We were made to feel at home as we arrived. Friendly and happy patrons enjoyed good food in a relaxed atmosphere. The fish and veggies were delish, as was the fish curry. Definitely be back.
Jun 29, 2014
Zomato
ROBERT R
+3.5
Local post work sports bar with interesting memorabilia and genuine pub ambiance blends with well executed Portuguese fare. Prawns great.
Jan 05, 2014
5
Nkosilindile Ndlovu
+5
I call this a two in one experience. If you love a bar experience and great food at the same time this is a place to be. Had a day out with my husband and we absolutely enjoyed the sea food
5
Plaxcidiah Muzembe
+5
What a hidden gem! My new friend had been raving about it, so we went for a quick catch up session after work on a Monday. We had their chicken and prawns with chips, salad and veg. Their sauce is hot but delicious!! Morish! I bought the sauce to go and my other friend says she could bath in it!! Highest praise from an Indian who loves hot sauce! Can't wait to go back! There was enough left over for lunch the next day
4
Marcel Meyer
+4
This is still one of those real bar experiences! The steak was great will be back to try more! The atmosphere is what it is all about and that it has a lot!
5
Abraham Motsoane - Learning eVarsity
+5
Amazing, absolutely amazing! My wife and I have always driven past this restaurant, but after giving a try, they've won themselves new customers! The food is absolutely well presented, tasty, filling and very affordable....I see us creating future memories here.
5
Michael Pierre Westhuizen
+5
THURSDAY BUFFET, (Eat as much as you want) 3x Meats on the Skewers (Chicken, Pork, Beef) and Boerewors, Everything is made to perfection, Always a very enjoyable experience !! I have attended the Thursday Buffet on several occasions, I can't wait just to go back there again,
5
Bianca Markus
+5
Favourite place to go for the 1kg prawn special on a monday! Staff is so friendly and quick.
5
Lemohang Dodo
+5
Very welcoming place with nice breeze. Food is so delicious I love the presentation and neatness. Their service is exceptional best customer support. The atmosphere around the place it makes you not want to leave wow.
5
Luciano Meintjies
+5
Man. I never thought I would be served such a delicious meal with the fellas on hollyday. The service,fast, efficient and friendly. The ribs are just delightful. The beverages ice cold and the price, affordable. Thank you guys
5
Rafael Karato
+5
The food is delicious. Had the kilo prawn special and Portuguese tripe, now my favourite. Will try Thursdays lunch espetadas, looking forward!
5
Ledwaba Tumi
+5
I love the authenticness of this Place, The food... out of this place. My favorite dish.... Is the chicken for 2