Tucked away behind ugly Barbarossaplatz, across the road from the lovely Volksgarten, you’ll find the idyllic Eifelplatz, home to one of the best little restaurants in Cologne.

La Teca is a small, corner restaurant situated on the big roundabout known as Eifelplatz, in Cologne’s Neustadt Süd district.

There’s hardly any decent shopping to be had in the area – unless you need to pick up some groceries from Penny or Rewe, or fancy buying a shisha pipe or a new clock – so you probably won’t wander down there unless you’re on your way to the park. But this doesn’t stop La Teca from doing a thriving business both at lunchtime and evenings.

Sit outside, whatever the weather

The secret to its success is its small menu of freshly made Italian dishes, a minimal but cosy wood interior, and a very relaxed bistro-like atmosphere. You can sit outside and enjoy the leafy Eifelplatz and a view of the Volksgarten park, whatever the season, as they offer blankets when it gets cold.

While you’re there – take a peak at the menu of the restautant next door – Casa Di Biase – another restaurant well worth a visit but with a higher price range. Great for business meals and special celebrations – we’ll tell you more about that place at the end of February.

Meanwhile – bypass the horrible Barbrassoplatz and wander into Neustadt Süd for a walk in the park and a spot of lunch at La Teca – you won’t regeret it.