Food: Zia Teresa
A few weeks ago, I was invited to a dinner to celebrate the 50th birthday of Zia Teresa – an authentic Italian restaurant nestled in the shadow of the Knightsbridge shopping emporium, Harrods.
Unfortunately, due to other commitments I was unable to attend the event – but as a lover of Italian food, I jumped at the opportunity to visit on Tuesday, and find out for myself what makes a restaurant successful enough to last that long in such a competitive marketplace…when so many others unfortunately fail.
First impressions were really very good. The restaurant itself is larger than I expected, but has a homely, authentic Italian feel, complete with clouds painted on the ceilings and private wooden booths. Despite it being relatively early in restaurant times (7.30pm) the restaurant was buzzing with customers – families, couples and ladies who (obviously) shop were happily chatting and eating all around us, creating a really nice atmosphere.
The welcome was warm and we were seated immediately, brought bread and olives and our drinks brought in a matter of minutes – lovely service. The menu was varied without being too large…the kind of menu where you ould probably be happy to try just about anything.
I decided upon the Calimari to start – while The Boy opted for the Field Mushrooms in a Blue Cheese Sauce. Zia Teresa don’t go crazy over their presentation – we’re talking rustic – but the Calimari was good and reminded me of dinners by the sea on holiday. I tried The Boys mushroom dish too, and while I absolutely LOVE blue cheese, that was all I could taste. The Boy however, thought it was delicious and finished it off in record time – despite it being a little cold in places (a bit of a shame but he didn’t seem to mind).
Main course decision was a little tricky – purely because there was so much I fancied. The Boy stole my original idea and went for the grilled Calf’s Liver, which was an excellent choice as it was cooked to perfection and absolutely delicious. I, on the other hand, possibly decided on the wrong thing under pressure as I opted for the Spinach and Ricotta Ravioli in a Cheese and Speck sauce. It was nice – cooked well – but just too cheesey for me. To be fair though – it was cheesey ravioli in cheese sauce, so I don’t know what I expected!
Looking around, the other dishes looked lovely. I think if I went back I would go for one of the gorgeous looking pizzas or steaks – as both looked fab.
Overall, it was a really nice experience. Zia Teresa is a gorgeously authentic Italian Restaurant, with great service, nice food and a lovely atmosphere. Prices are really reasonable and its definitely a great place to eat after a hectic shopping trip at Harrods. The locals certainly love it – it was voted The Independents “Best Neighbourhood Restaurant” – so expect it to be around for another 50 years or so yet!
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