Taking a lead from ancient Italy, Cenetta is a culinary treasure nestled within one of the region’s historic heartlands, Rochdale. An authentic Italian experience infused with modern flair, parts of the restaurant draw inspiration from Grotta del Buontalenti, a fantastical grotto in Florence’s Boboli Gardens, and even feature an altar from the long lost Notre Dame School convent in Cheetam. An enchanting aesthetic, this is offset elsewhere with more minimalist design, gentle lighting highlighting the carefully curated Italian embellishments.
Cenetta’s menu caters to all palates, from flambéed steaks for the discerning carnivores, to customisable pizzas for the young at heart. A la carte options include classic Antipasti such as Caprese Burrata and Pork & Beef Meatballs, to more unusual dishes like Nduja Arancini and Sautéed Mushrooms with Cumbrian Smoked Pancetta, Chorizo Picante & Tiger Prawns. Pasta runs from Gnocchi to rich, hot Calabrian speciality Ve-Du-Ya Spaghetti, with sweet peppers, chilli, and sun-blushed tomatoes. Sections are also dedicated to Secondi — Per Due and Flambé — with a heavy meat focus. Chateaubriand, trio of fillet tail, rump of lamb and marinated chicken, Duo of Beef Fillet, to name but a few. The fish is also excellent; Pan Seared Sea Bass and Salmon, Oven Baked Hake, trio di pesce.
Beyond the culinary offerings, Cenetta serves an array of iconic Italian cocktails and wines, “elevating the art of imbibing into a realm of elegance and refinement”. The restaurant plays host to exclusive events, such as a lavish bottomless brunch every Saturday and Sunday, alongside regular five-course tasting experiences. While once a cherished local secret, Cenetta is now a coveted destination for lovers of Italian cuisine from far and wide. Nevertheless, it retains the allure of a hidden gem, a sanctuary for connoisseurs of fine dining and aficionados of culture, welcoming guests from 5PM weekdays and throughout the weekend.