Cento

- 595 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215

For residents across Ohio in search of an Italian dining experience that transcends the ordinary, Cento in Columbus offers a truly exceptional journey. Tucked away in the charming, historic German Village neighborhood, Cento is more than just a restaurant—it's a celebration of Italy's rich culinary traditions. The establishment, a tribute to the 100th restaurant from renowned restaurateur Cameron Mitchell, is an oasis of authentic, chef-driven Italian cuisine. The atmosphere is carefully crafted to feel like a secret garden in Italy, with romantic string lights and a cozy fireplace, creating an enchanting backdrop for any meal. Here, centuries-old recipes are elevated with the use of fresh, seasonal, and locally sourced ingredients, resulting in dishes that are both classic and artistically presented. The dedication to authenticity is a hallmark of Cento’s kitchen, a fact particularly appreciated by connoisseurs of traditional Italian cooking.

Patrons consistently highlight Cento's commitment to culinary integrity, with one review specifically praising the difficulty of finding a traditionally made carbonara without "cream or other garbage." This focus on delivering on the classics, like a carbonara made with just egg yolk, pecorino romano, and guanciale, speaks volumes about the restaurant's quality. Beyond the food, the experience is defined by impeccable service and a warm, welcoming environment. A touching review from a couple who saved up for a year to celebrate at Cento perfectly captures this spirit, describing how they were made to feel "welcomed" and "cherished" by their waiter. This level of genuine hospitality ensures that every guest, regardless of their background or reason for visiting, leaves with a sense of having had an amazing and unforgettable experience. Cento is a place that understands that fine dining is about more than just the food; it's about making people feel special, a quality that resonates deeply with the local community in Ohio.

Cento's location adds significantly to its charm and appeal for locals and visitors alike. Situated at 595 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA, the restaurant is right in the heart of historic German Village. This area is known for its beautiful brick streets, quaint shops, and lively atmosphere, making a visit to Cento part of a larger, delightful outing. The restaurant is easily accessible from various parts of Columbus and the surrounding communities in Ohio. While parking in German Village can sometimes be a consideration, Cento addresses this by offering valet parking daily from 5 pm to close, providing a convenient and stress-free option for arrival. The restaurant's presence on bustling South 3rd Street makes it a prominent and easy-to-find destination within this cherished neighborhood. This blend of a prime location and thoughtful amenities ensures that patrons can focus on enjoying their dining experience from the moment they arrive.

Cento provides a range of services that cater to a sophisticated and discerning clientele while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere.

• Authentic Italian Dining: The core service is a top-tier Italian culinary experience. The menu features a diverse selection of fresh antipasti, hand-rolled pastas, and classic entrees. The chefs' commitment to using authentic, seasonal Italian ingredients ensures that every dish, from the whipped ricotta appetizer to a traditionally made carbonara, is a testament to genuine Italian cooking.

• Accommodating Dietary Needs: Cento is known for being attentive to dietary restrictions. The restaurant features a variety of dishes that can be made gluten-free, including some pasta options. While the kitchen is not completely gluten-free, the staff is knowledgeable and works diligently to accommodate guests with dietary restrictions. This makes it a great option for those with celiac disease or gluten sensitivity, as they are not limited to just a few options.

• Outdoor Dining: The restaurant boasts a very nice shaded patio, known as the Garden Terrazza. This outdoor space is available daily on a first-come, first-served basis, weather permitting. It provides a wonderful, romantic atmosphere for enjoying a meal, adding to the overall unique charm of the location.

• Professional and Attentive Service: The service at Cento is consistently praised for being "on-par with the caliber of restaurant." Staff members are described as professional, knowledgeable, and genuinely welcoming. This high level of hospitality makes every guest feel valued, whether they are celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying a weeknight meal.

• Private Dining: Cento is available during the day to host private events, making it a perfect venue for special celebrations, business dinners, or intimate gatherings. This service allows patrons to bring the upscale Cento experience to their private functions.

Several features and highlights make Cento a standout Italian restaurant in the Ohio dining scene.

• Traditional Carbonara: A key highlight is the restaurant's dedication to making a traditional carbonara without any cream. This attention to authenticity is a major draw for purists and is a strong indicator of the kitchen's commitment to genuine Italian methods and flavors.

• Exceptional Appetizers: Customers rave about the starters, such as the whipped ricotta served with excellent sourdough bread. This dish, along with others, showcases the restaurant’s ability to turn simple ingredients into something delicious and memorable.

• Stunning Atmosphere and Decor: The beautiful atmosphere is a major feature. Located in German Village, the restaurant’s interior and shaded patio are both "wonderful." The decor, which includes elegant chandeliers and a fireplace, transports guests to an intimate and romantic Italian setting.

• Gluten-Free Options: Cento's inclusion of a variety of dishes that can be made gluten-free, and its knowledgeable staff, is a significant highlight for diners with dietary restrictions. This makes the restaurant an inclusive and thoughtful choice for a wider range of patrons.

• Genuine Hospitality: The staff's ability to make guests feel "welcomed" and "cherished" is a huge highlight. This level of service transforms a meal into an "amazing experience," as one customer noted. It is this personal touch that creates a lasting positive impression.

For those who wish to experience Cento, the following contact information is essential. The restaurant is located at 595 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA. For reservations or inquiries, you can reach them by phone at (614) 696-6565. Reservations are highly recommended, especially for dining rooms, and can be made via phone or online to ensure you get a table.

Cento is perfectly suited for locals in Ohio who appreciate fine dining, authentic flavors, and a memorable experience. It’s a place where you can celebrate a special milestone, enjoy a romantic dinner, or simply treat yourself to a meticulously prepared meal. The restaurant's location in German Village makes it a cultural and culinary destination, offering a full evening’s experience. From the traditionally made dishes and the extensive gluten-free options to the stunning atmosphere and the truly genuine hospitality, Cento provides an unparalleled dining experience. It stands as a testament to the fact that exceptional food and service can be a powerful force for connection and celebration, making it a place that people in the Columbus area and beyond will "ALWAYS recommend."

Cento

595 S 3rd St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA