Tucked away in the heart of Teddington, Shambles restaurant and wine bar serves as a neighbourhood favourite, providing authentic Italian cuisine and more than 40 wines by the glass. The name gives a nod to the building's history. Once a butchers and slaughterhouse, nowadays you'll find homemade pasta, vegetable gardens and relaxed dining.
The interior combines various different areas, allowing diners to choose from the bar, restaurant or even the huge garden terrace out the back. The wine bar comes complete with cosy and vibrant seating, decked out with colourful cushions and wooden tables that create an idyllic spot to relax with a couple of drinks. Pair this with a couple of dishes from the snacks menu for some casual dining. Elsewhere, the roar of a brick fireplace creates a cosy and homely atmosphere in the restaurant.
The garden, on the other hand, offers an escape from the busy streets outside. Take a seat in wicker chairs under a canopy of greenery, enjoying the quiet privacy of the walled space and beauty of the olive trees and wisteria blossoms. An ideal spot for al fresco dining during the warmer months.
Shambles' menu is packed full of Italian dishes although you'll be sure to see a twist or two on some of the classics. The menu changes seasonally but you can expect the likes of creamy burrata with blood orange and honey or the crispy fried squid with lemon and a fermented chilli sauce. Mains often come in the form of cavatelli, ravioli and tagliatelle as well as roast chicken with parma ham or slow cooked venison with braised carrots and buckwheat polenta.
On the drinks front, an extensive wine and cocktail menus provide excellent options for an aperitivo as well as plenty of teas and coffees that make for a delightful end to the meal.