Totò e Peppino

“You’ll eat your fill just like in Naples,” says one Google review—and behind the unintentional humor of this spelling mistake lies a great deal of culinary wisdom. That’s because the pizzas served here in this small but authentic pizzeria—which has been honored with local culinary awards—come straight out of the ever-hot stone oven and are meant to taste just like they do in Italy. And that’s the very essence of the dining experience—and almost the most important thing about a visit to Totò e Peppino on Hansaring, not far from Ebertplatz.

The choice of the name “Totò e Peppino” naturally ties in with that Italian vibe as well; although the film *Totò e Peppino*, shot as far back as 1958, is probably less well-known in this country, it is nonetheless a classic of its kind, which—likely due to its success—spun off several film sequels well into the 1960s.

Witty tongues claim that the two psychiatric ward patients featured in the film actually existed and that they once came here to Cologne to bake authentic Neapolitan pizza. But that’s undoubtedly a work of fiction. The Neapolitan pizza, however, is available here. And there’s even something like the Instagram-worthy fried pizza stuffed with Nutella, listed under “Dolci”—but that’s another story.

Pizza, but no pasta: the menu

Great craftsmanship turns these small, round flatbreads with toppings into the Italian culinary experience that’s so popular with young and old alike. Here you’ll find Neapolitan-style pizza: the crust is thin and the edges are fluffy. In addition, Pizzastube offers antipasti, salads, and desserts—as well as fried dishes, such as the fried pizza.

Italian Vibe: The Ambience

Rustic, simply cozy—Totò e Peppino goes all out with its furnishings and decor to evoke an authentic Italian atmosphere. Pictures from the film that inspired the restaurant’s name hang on the walls. Diners tend to sit close together, and during mealtimes, they can watch as the pizza chefs slide pizzas into the wood-fired oven—and the ambient sounds help create an authentic Italian atmosphere. During the warmer months, there are a few outdoor seats along the street.