Dias Tavern

Dias Tavern is a no-frills Portuguese restaurant in the east district of town. The décor is loud and cheap - a large hall-like vibe, filled with plastic chairs and tables covered with plastic cloths. Numerous televisions broadcast live sports games – which is why our host selected the Dias for this month’s Steak Night (I think); a live World Cup footie game – Portugal vs. Ghana.

The Dias makes no apologies for being a bit rough around the edges, and that’s just how the loyal patrons like it. Its busy most nights, and they serve good value fare in generous portions. You can’t go wrong with a prego roll, trinchado steak or peri-peri prawns, and they’re also well known for their Espetada.

Our table order consisted of a few Portuguese fillets, trinchado and Espetadas. As always the Espetadas made a grand entrance - dripping in garlic butter. The trinchado orderers gave high praise for their saucy dishes; one guy even mopping up his sauce with his fingers! Chips and sides tend to get drowned in whatever wine/garlic/peri peri sauce though – but some people like it like that.

Our food was enjoyable, and our waitress was attentive and kept the drinks flowing. Dias Tavern is a pub/tavern – so don’t expect a romantic atmosphere. The food is cheap, service can be slow – but it’s a good place to hook up with mates or family.

Overall:    6.9 (average of scores)
Steak:     6.9
Sides:     6.2
Service:   7.2
Value:     7.3

Dias Tavern
021 465 7547
15 Caledon Street
www.diastavern.co.za

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