We were sad to see that One One Four in the heart of Teddington had closed. But all was not lost, as Sam and Alex Berry, the dynamic couple behind this restaurant and other SW London dining hotspots, had other plans for the site.
I’m delighted to report that Cento Uno, One One Four’s new guise, is fabulous and more than makes up for the loss of its predecessor. There is another Cento Uno run by the couple, in Surbiton, where they first launched their business.
The Restaurant
A sensible indoor porch with a heavy curtain cuts cold draughts and adds a sense of mystique as one emerges into the warm restaurant.
It’s very Italian, with the walls adorned with vintage Italian black and white photos and other Italian artwork.
The spectacular central bar is just as spectacular as before, and if one just wanted to pop in to try some of the Bone Idyll spirits that Sam and Alex produce, there are lots of bar stools on which to perch and ‘people watch’ while enjoying your drink.
The bar has been tastefully decorated with Christmas decorations and there is an open kitchen at the rear.
While the vibe is casual, they have the sense to offer smart proper striped cotton napkins of a generous size – adding a little more class to the whole experience.
Our Meal
I started with my usual favourite – a Negroni, and this was a really good one. And, amazingly, it was only £6! Our server, Ed, told us that it’s one of their most popular cocktails (not surprisingly).
They also had Peroni Libera, so my husband was happy.
When you are seated at your table, you’re offered still or sparkling complimentary water – a nice touch.
The Antipasto Della Casa £14 (Selection of Italian Cured Meat, Grilled Vegetables, olives) appealed and Ed sensibly advised us that it is a very generous portion, so it was unlikely we’d need another starter.
He was absolutely right: this was a seriously fabulous spread with heaps of Spianata, Prosciutto Cotto and Prosciutto Crudo. The grilled vegetables were particularly good, and I’m surprised that these aren’t offered as a starter in their own right as a great vegetarian option.
Having seen some rather magnificent looking pizzas being served at other tables, my husband chose to have the Teddington Pizza, (with Fior Di Latte, Courgette Cream, Courgette Chips, Speck Ham, Roasted Tomatoes).
I couldn’t resist the Granchio e Gamberoni pasta (Bigoli Pasta, King Prawns, Crab Meat Fresh Tomatoes, White Wine Sauce) and I’m a fan of a small salad with my pasta, so chose the small rocket salad to accompany.
The food was exquisite…
My husband’s pizza was excellent and one of the things we appreciated was when ordering, you’re asked if you’d like your pizza to be served ready sliced. His pizza was piled with meat, had a beautiful crispy crust, generous cheese topping and was further topped with spiralised courgette strips that had been deep fried – giving the appearance of fried spaghetti.
My pasta was soooo good. Cooked perfectly al dente and the sauce had just the right amount of chilli – a gentle heat on the finish but not enough to mask or overpower the lovely seafood. It was garlicky, tomatoey and topped with four fat prawns.
The salad was another triumph – Parmesan shavings and crispy seeds added interest without detracting from the deliciously dressed rocket.
A glass of the house white – a classic Soave priced at £6/8 a glass or £29 a bottle was all that was needed to finish a really excellent meal.
Not surprisingly, we didn’t want or need anything else, but we’ll be back soon to try some more items on the menu.
Cento Uno features vinyl DJs every weekend, spinning records that bring a lively and warm ambiance to the restaurant. It’s the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening with friends, a special family dinner, or a cosy meal with your canine companion.
Cento Uno is open from Tuesday to Sunday to serve up a mix of Italian fare, with brunch from 9 am to 3 pm, lunch from 12 pm to 3 pm, and dinner from 5 pm to 9:30 pm.
Bring the kids, bring your friends, bring your pup—this is our new Teddington go-to.
