Maybe i'm biased because i'm extremely hungry but this is the best pizza I've ever had!! Huge fan of the Margarita & Fungi pizza. We went here because park plazas room service was non-responsive and it was close. But oh my goodness am I glad that the hotel wasn't responding because otherwise we would not have stumbled upon this cute and delicious place! :) The customer service was amazing and everyone was so sweet and kind. read more

A last minute, first time visit. I wanted to go to another restaurant, but it was unexpectedly closed. Plus it was close to my hotel. I have to echo several of the other reviews. Customers were coming and going, but it was not that crowded when there, about 20:00. I had a daily soup special and a pasta dish. The food was good, but I thought very expensive, especially for the area. (£6.50 for a cup of soup!? £1 for bread!? I was surprised the glass of tap water was free.) Service was dodgy at best. This point completely turned me off about the restaurant. I was seated quickly, but I had to summon the attendant every time I wanted something (order, ask for the bill, etc.) Part of the reason for the poor service, I think, was that everyone in the restaurant was constantly engaged talking with each other. I had the impression that I, the customer, was somewhat a nuisance disturbing their conversations. On top of the expensiveness of the menu, a 15% service charge was added to the bill, which honestly I did not notice until after I left. I will not be visiting here again. read more

This is a great place for gluten free, service is excellent and the owner is friendly and makes you feel at home. My husband is vegetarian and gluten free and it's difficult to find both in London restaurants outside Indian or Thai. I love seafood and meat and my meal at Cotto was also delicious. The ingredients are high quality and the price is reasonable by large city standards. read more

Greetings. I hope you appreciate this review before you are subjected to a very rude service. This is based on two couples experience on a cold december night.  We went to this place and ordered a mozzarella apetizer and pizza to start while we decided for our main entre and wine selection. Our order was taken by the main patron who appeared to be the owner. He also took with him all menus. After our apetizer and pizza arived we asked the server for a second menu which he provided with the following remarks: "you should have ordered all at once... see, we do not like to go back and forth"  To our surprise, the patron was talking to the three tables across about us and telling the rest of the restaurant guests that we had only ordered two things which was not enough to pay the service for the table...  All of this while the server was in essence refusing our order and kicking us out...   By that time we had all eyes on us... this while the owner continued making unprofessional, unethical, and erroneous coments about us.  This is the kind of service you should expect at this place.  This type of establishment is a disgrace to the restaurant industry,  Londoners and Italian family culture and values. Arrogance, disrespect, disgusting attitude, unprofessionalism, unethical services, etc... all you are certaint to experience at this place.  By the way, i left £20 tip and the guy didnt even say thank you. I guess they really needed it.  Do yourself a favor and go to a Pub and have an authentic London experience. read more

This was a great restaurant that is worth seeking out. My wife has a gluten allergy and it's hard to find places that accommodate. It is run by an Italian family and the owner has Celiac disease and has gluten free pasta versions of every dish on them menu. When you go there, you feel like family. read more

Food was fantastic and the staff were so incredibly friendly. They also were very accommodating to those with food allergies and had many options for them. read more

This place is incredible. The moment we walked in we felt like family. The owner was so kind and was trying to teach us Italian! They had the most amazing gluten free menu I've ever seen! My celiac sister was in heaven. THE GF PIZZA WAS INCREDIBLE! 10/10! read more

Delicious, and authentic. Had lasagna, pesto and tortellini for take away this week. All quality.

This place is a family business: run by a family from Naples (the pizza capital) they have family members working in almost every job at the restaurant and you can hear them speaking Italian to each other. They're excited about food and to have you in their restaurant. For the wheat eaters, my dining companion said the pizza and bread are solid renditions of classic dishes, but I can't comment on that personally. They can get pretty busy on weekend nights, so it can be a good idea to call in advance to reserve a table. Can't hurt to mention if you'll be ordering a gluten-free pizza -- apparently this helps them plan how much to make. Gluten-free notes: This place is gluten-free mecca. Bread, pizza, pasta, you can eat it all! And also, the owner (and perhaps a few other family members) have celiac disease so you know you can order without having to ask a bunch of questions. The menu has two columns on it, one indicating the price for a normal dish and the other indicating the price for the gluten-free version. (For dishes that are naturally gluten-free, the prices are the same. For gluten-free versions of things like pizza, it's a few pounds more to make up for the higher cost of ingredients.) When the Italians do gluten-free, corn is their grain of choice and it shows here. The bread is corn-based (slightly reminiscent of an American cornbread) and they serve it toasted with butter. The cornmeal pizza crust has a great flavor and crunch, though as you could imagine it's a bit heavier than the wheat crust. Still tasty. I heard the gluten-free tiramisu was excellent though I was too stuffed to try it. You'll also find lots to talk about with your fellow diners. The word has gotten out about the gluten-free options here and you'll probably find yourself swapping tips with the table next to you. read more

You poor gluten free eaters across the city. Give us thy daily bread? No thanks. You're either banished to Bibim Baps, have to trawl for corn tacos, or scour the city in search of good steak and frites. So, rare is it to dine with a dinner date and get their coel(iac) of approval; just as rare is it to find a dish that doesn't revolve around rice. So when multiple choices of wheat free wonders present, go head babes: take your time. Essentially Cotto have carb(on) copied everything off the regular menu and made special versions safe for those with less veritable villi. So as a place that prides itself on it its selection of gluten free pasta, I'd take time to treat your guests of gluten-free honour with the good grace to mull over the menu and avoid pestering guests whilst choosing said pasta. Saying that, said guest of honour at the table certainly enjoyed what Cotto has finally caught up to do, but personally I could see past the gluten free gimmick. I found an overly salty/ sweet theme repeated, a tinned tomato taste in the sauces, ubiquitous across most of the dishes delivered and sadly there was something wrong where the starter to mains ratio of sauces were also unequivocally uneven in how saucy they were presented. My octopi was drowned in a sea of sweet tomatoes, but to start it was an unexpectedly huge dish! Then for mains, a disappointingly dry lacklustre prawn linguini seemed lazily made. If only I combined the two?! Cotto is warm, inviting, homely, but dare I say, tired. Cotto could do with shaking up the menu a bit, I mean would it kill to serve some marrow, some fresh anchovies? Think about portion size, presentation? Safe to say I'll no less be going back in the new year with some mate who's going gluten free after the glut fest of Christmas. *eye roll emoji* read more

Across the road from Lambeth North tube station, 5mins walk from Waterloo. The cheapest Italian I have ever been to, let alone in London. The boy and I shared a starter and had a main course each, plus half a bottle of wine for £23! Tasty, straightforward food. Hilariously moody service (but because it was characterful and amusing, I was ok with it) from the waiters who were all smiles whenever they spoke to a table with children. A very family friendly place. Not worth a special trip, but if you find yourself in the area in need of a feed, or if you live South of the river and want to go on a very cheap date to cheer up a cold, skint evening (candles-tick, flowers-tick, Italian food-tick) this is worth a go. read more

Avoid this place, no authentic Italian food here. The waitress, a short lady with black hair was rude, she said that she couldn't take an appetizer order, you have to order all your food at once because it was busy. Well, the appetizer and meal came out all together, which the appetizer was refused. Pasta dishes were drenched in a bland tomato sauce. They also charge you for olives bread and butter that was place on the table at sit down. This place is a tourist trap. read more

This is one of the best restaurants you can find, and truly superb for both vegetarians and gluten-free eaters. Lino is a great host and takes great pride in the quality ingredients and the preparation. I doubt you could get an unsatisfactory meal here. If you are gluten free, just go there. You will go back again for sure! read more

We we're immediately met at the door and shown to a table in the back. We were handed bread and butter and gladly accepted while we waited for the menu. Once we got the menu we noticed there was a charge for the bread and butter, only £1 but we weren't told and it isn't customary. The owner was a kind man but the waitstaff was dismissive at best and spent more time flirting with each other than working. One waiter in particular kept wiping his nose with his hands and then handling plates and silverware. He wasn't the one who brought us our food, which wasn't bad at all. We had the lasagna and penne con pollo and both were delicious. This would get a better review from me if the staff wasn't so rude and dismissive. read more

I went on a trip to London in late March of this year. We had checked out Cotto on Yelp a year before but couldn't make it before we left... so it became a high priority for us to go get their gluten-free pasta goodness before we return home. We journeyed by Underground to reach the restaurant and found it to be quite a walk from the Waterloo station but still worth the walk. Next time we'd take the extra time to transfer to the Bakerloo line since Lambeth is literally across the street. We were greeted by the owner who is the most delightful Italian man. He is celiac himself... so you can be certain that his gluten-free pasta is going to be on-point! He was excited to see someone in our party was gluten-free and shared his ideas on what the Mister should have for his dinner. The owner's warmth and excitement enhanced our entire experience and made the whole meal a perfect experience. Let's get onto the pasta... I am not celiac, so I didn't have to worry about gluten free. I settled on the regular fusilli con salicce with the house red. I found the pasta really good... but the sauce was where it was at! It was just absolutely delicious and I am sad I don't live in London so I could go all the time. We wrapped up our meal with some of the most delicious desserts... I chose the lemon sorbet.. served inside a hollowed out lemon coated in sugar and frozen. Yes, you read all of that correctly. If it's on the menu... get it!! So, whether you are a London local, or a tourist like me... whether you are celiac or a gluten-seeking fiend... check out Cotto and bring your appetite! read more

A real gem. Wonderful homemade food -- top-notch risotto, pasta, and pizza as well as homemade tiramisu and tartufo -- served by a lovely family who care deeply for their customers. Casual place with very good food -- my favorite combination. The best Italian places to me are not about showiness or presentation - to me, the Italian food experience is great food, humble service, and a warm, human experience. Cotto and its owner Lino provide this wonderfully. We were surprised at how many customers coming in seemed to be repeats. Additionally, they are able to provide hands-down the best gluten-free Italian meal anywhere because the owner himself is celiac (intolerant of wheat). This made my son, who suffers from celiac, immediately at ease and he requested we eat there again the next night. Not a fancy place, not the place for a 25th anniversary dinner, but wonderful for just about any other occasion. (note: visit date February 2009) read more

We lucked upon this wonderful restaurant after a Bicycle London Tour. Our daughter is celiac and the owner was so hospitable and gracious. The food was delicious! We had the gluten free spaghetti bolognese, lasagna, 4 cheese penne, & margarita pizza. We ate every bite! Of course we were a bit hungry after our 3 hour bike tour:) read more

Went back again last night. Another wonderful meal. My wife had the pasta fagiole Soup gluten free and specialty gluten free pizza. My son had the lasagne and I had the Hawaiian pizza. All Excellente! Great sized portions. You have to try it!!! read more

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I am still dreaming about the carbonara I had here in February! It was awesome that they had such a large gluten free menu as I was traveling with celiacs. I am fortunate that I am not limited by that, but this place was a win for both the "regular" pasta and GF pasta crowds. When we walked in we were greeted by who I think was the owner. He was lovely, so friendly and jolly. I can't wait to come back! read more

Oh dear, judging by other people's review of Cotto, I'm clearly a cynical black sheep. I didn't particularly find the "mamma mia, we are genuine Italians" service, all that genuine. I thought it was laid on a little thick for my liking. Perhaps I've been in the city for too long. As for the food, it was alright. Edible, bog standard Italian, but certainly not enough for me to think it was worth paying or coming back for. We chose it because it was close to a venue where the Christmas party was located but sadly, it wasn't to be. The bread was nice though. read more

Finally got around to eating here, glad I did. If you're looking for fancy-schmanzy Italian food keep walking. This in Italian comfort food, a very large menu with lots of pastas and meats and fish, not to mention some great starters. Pleasant wait staff, the owner always visits each table if he's in, and he usually is. Family run. Not expensive for this pricey town. Good value for money. Enjoy! read more

Although I enjoyed my ravioli, the other 3 people in my party found their meals to be either bland or too salty. Also we were offered bread (charged extra) and water (also charged extra without a choice for regular water). read more

This was a great meal. We just spent a week in Italy and ended up getting the best Italian meal in London. My wife and I are gluten free and their entire menu has gluten free options. The owner is celiac so he understands the importance of keeping things separate. We had the insalata tri-color for a starter, We had the gluten free Gnocchi and a gluten free pizza with incredible hot pepper olive oil (see picture). We also had gluten free tiramisu and lemon sorbet served in a lemon. What a great experience!!! read more

Cotto - Italian Near Me - London, XGL

A must visit if in the area!!!! Amazing food!! Amazing service!!! Truly authentic Italian. Everything about Cotto was great!!!! Hotel recommended a more tourist spot that didn't have great reviews and we are so glad we took the short walk to Cotto!! Pizza was amazing and my husband had spaghetti!! Thank you for a great experience!! read more

We came in 35 mins before they closed and were rudely turned away. If you want to be closed at 10:30 put that in your operating hours. If your looking for a late dinner don't test your luck here! read more

This restaurant was close to our hotel in Waterloo and we choose this spot on w whim. The owner greeted us outside and yeld in to his daughter to get a table for two. Made us feel at home and welcomed. Very Chic place and the food was fantastic (fresh pasta) and the house vino was tasty. read more

Two L.A. girls who enjoyed our authentic Italian meal as well as the company of the owner. It was my friend's birthday and he made us some delicious after dinner drink, on the house. read more

Perfect meal! Ate with a friend who has shellfish allergies and is gluten free and she ate here with ease. Everything was delicious especially the gnocchi and the broiled salmon. And the staff was super friendly! We will recommend this place to all friends who visit London! read more

Cozy little family-run Italian joint blocks from the bustling Waterloo station serves great, filling fare at a decent price for London. Given the small space, reservations are probably a good idea, although the place is very informal and casual. The website helpfully provides a link for such. Let's jump right in to say that the spaghetti carbonara ($13.60 at the current one Pound per $1.50ish exchange rate) was declared one of the best pasta dishes ever by one finicky pasta prude in our party. Mercifully light on the bacon -- really more like pancetta anyway in this rustic prep -- but with plenty of velvety egg yolk, the tight, rich serving was incredibly filling and satisfying. Next, the four-cheese penne ($16) -- just a very rich, hearty prep that really hit the spot for anyone looking for a big, warming entree. Finishing it under a broiler gave it just the the right amount of brown and chew. You will wobble home. More complex was the crespoline ($16.60), basically fresh pasta filled with spinach and ricotta cheese, topped with tomato sauce and baked. Think Italian enchiladas. Acid and cream and goodness. Very nice little dish. Pizza fans? The Vesuviana (tomato, mozzarella, homemade sausage and peppers $18.35) does feature some great sausage, but otherwise the price point seems a little high for the dish, almost like a tourist "pizza" premium is in effect. Desserts were aces across -- the tiramisu, mint ripple, and sorbets were all great finishes to a simple, honest dinner. Of note the sorbets arrived in wonderful little fresh citrus skins that clearly spoke to an attention to detail which would please any foodie. Finally -- the gluten free pasta options have been highly praised by other Yelpers, but were not sampled by our party. Might be a decision maker for you. Bottomline, looking for a simple, filling, pleasant evening meal on the south bank of the Thames -- give Cotto a go. read more

Cotto is one of those places I'd walked / bussed / cycled by a zillion times and paid no attention to, set at the intersection of roads leading from Kennington, E&C and Waterloo and right opposite Lambeth North tube station. Inside it's a cosy, very authentic Italian family restaurant with a great menu, lots of good vegetarian options, a whole gluten free section (unheard of in this sort of place!), super friendly staff (a real Italian family!), very reasonably pricing and the most outrageously impressive desserts I've seen in a long time. The tiramisu looks like it's straight out of a posh cookery book - beautiful to look at and oozing with booze - it's a shame my pasta filled me up to much to give it a try! Still, that's what second visits are for... read more

We had a great authentic Italian meal here. The lasagna and spaghetti with bolognese sauce were delicious. Their olives it's bread are spicy and unique. My wife went back a second time to eat here during our 5 day trip to London. Would recommend their house red wine. The owner was very friendly and made sure we were enjoying the food. read more

So I was on the hunt for homemade wheat free/gluten free pizza and came across Cotto. It's not far from my place on the train so we headed out there for dinner. We were greeted by the owner with a giant basket of freshly baked bread, which I turned down because of my wheat allergy and the owner said, "You must tell me right away, I will take care of you!" and he had some fresh and hot gluten-free bread brought to me right away. What a treat!!!! This is a fantastic Italian family owned establishment with all the charm and fantastic service that you find in Italy. And the food! Superb! My husband had the Penne Arrabiata, and I had a Gluten Free Vegetarian Pizza. Both were absolutely excellent. The veggies on the pizza were crispy and delicious, the sauce and cheese were wonderful and the crust was crispy around the edges. The owner took the time to have about a 20 min chat with us, inquiring about my allergy and telling us that he had been Celiac for many years. I could not fit dessert into my preggy tummy, but my husband had the mint and chocolate ice cream which was spectacular! I had a bite, and I've never had ice cream that was as light as a mousse. Brilliantly done. Not only that, but over half the desserts on the menu were gluten free. Not just the typical gluten free fare either...they had tiramisu for goodness sake! I highly recommend this restaurant for WF and GF as well as non-allergy folk as well! It's a nice friendly laid back atmosphere, reasonably priced, and caters to those of us who are normally left out when it comes to Italian fare! Go there now! x read more

Wonderfully surprised by this gem! The bread was fresh and delicious and service was so friendly. I ordered the tortellini stuffed with asparagus and ricotta in a prosciutto cream sauce and was blown away - perfect. Give this place a try - you won't be disappointed. read more

solid locally-owned Italian food. The owner is a lovely man who makes all guests feel at home. Order off the homemade pasta menu or the pizza; we found both extra exceptional! read more

I had the most uncomfortable, terrible and disappointing experience . I walked in with my family of six and was offered bread/butter. I politely replied, "no thank you," so the waitress gave me an ugly stare as if I've done something wrong. Terrible customer service to begin with. As our order arrived, we proceeded to eat. The food was ok, nothing special. The waitress then proceeded to stare at us the entire time we ate. Not a quick glance, I mean a HARD LONG STARE. I felt so uncomfortable ! I would take a bite and her eyes were looking straight at me. I would give this restaurant a zero star if it was possible. Please don't visit, stay away ! read more

Worst experience ever. They put olives and bread on the table without ordering them - but they charged for them. Regular bread hard and old. No pizzas available, no GF spaghetti available, no GF linguini available - 40% of the menu is unavailable! Melanzane flat. Change from paying with cash was incomplete. Will never go back. read more

We were in London 5 yrs ago & found this little gem. We were back this week & came for dinner twice...ok, three times. We had 4 teens so the free WiFi was a hit. More than that, the food is authentic, reasonably priced (for London) and the ambiance is quaint. The owner says 'ciao Bella' as if we were right outside Rome. Pizza, Caprese salad & gnocchi were the favorites. House red is also very drinkable. read more

This is overpriced restuarant trap for the tourist. It charges for bread, adds a mandatory service charge with average food and sub-par service. Unless gluten free is a big thing for you, find something better. read more

As of writing this review, I am unable to review the food. I have been sitting at the restaurant for the better part of an hour and have seen multiple other tables be fed and catered to, but our food has yet to arrive. We have been assured two times by the owner that our food is up next, but I have seen at least three other tables be fed before us (despite us being seated and putting in our orders 20 or more minutes prior). The staff is cold and not helpful. It appeared that not ordering wine is a major downer on the service at this business and will result in less than stellar service. Edit: food finally came. It was really good! The salad had no dressing or oil, but otherwise I was very pleased. If only the service wasn't so horrid, it would rate at least three stars read more

Excellent service and food, really a recommendation! If I have to give one down point, it would be that out main dish was a little small. Actually, if we didn't take a starter, it would have been to little to satisfy. read more