Stefano was excellent. He was very polite and courteous, took our order promptly, and made us feel at home. Great location, chilled out atmosphere, very clean and amazing food. Would highly recommend! Thank you Stefano and team.
F
F G
Google
a year ago
5.0
I have to say it first, thanks for being so respectful and caring for your customers Mr. manager.
The food and environment was as good as Amsterdam and Germany but the way the restaurant manager treated us when we had problem with paying with their new method was just so respectful and i felt i have to keep it in my mind to write it down here.
Well done Va piano for the tasty food, fair price and clean restaurant.
D
David Koehler
Google
a year ago
4.0
Stopped in for lunch with the family during Christmas week in December. We always make a point to visit a Vapiano when in London, and this location was convenient for our travels that day. The process is different than in the past, when one would go to the counter and place the order. Instead, all orders are done from the table. I believe this change is due to COVID protocols.
We did have trouble with the ordering system. After scanning the QR code to get to the online order site, each of us (there were five) would get to the payment page and have failure. Initially we thought this may be due to our US cards (though one would think AMEX Platinum would work worldwide), but even my daughter had trouble and she lives in London. Reloading the page eventually allowed most of us to succeed, though it could take multiple tries. Two of the five eventually had to resort to having the staff come over and take the order and payment.
One order (carbonara with chicken) came and, after taking a few bites, we quickly realized there was no chicken in it; staff was made aware and blamed the chef, though the dish was quickly replaced with another that was correct, so I believe it was not a chef error.
All in all, we still love the food at Vapiano. I believe the experience is better when one can go to the counter and order food, and hopefully this will be returned soon. Best carbonara in London!
A
Andrés Felipe Verástegui Prieto
Google
a year ago
5.0
I was so good that I couldn't stop making approval noises, for both. Amazing cheesecake, so fresh and smotthy, and the rissoto wow.
S
Saloni Kimtee
Zomato
2 months ago
5.0
One of the best things London gave me was ofcourse vapiano 😍 our first experience was quite decent however when a friend insisted to go again and try the aglio olio, we decided to go again and there was no looking back. There probably hasn’t been any form of pasta that I have not tried here. The pizza are quite decent and so is the lasagna, nothing very unusual form what you would get elsewhere but the pasta, now we are talking. The variety in sauce and pasta always leaves me confused about what to order. The Italian desserts are quite decent too. High highly recommended if you’re in London. <br/>
K
K Kip (Kip)
Google
2 years ago
4.0
Tasty fresh pasta cooked in an open planned kitchen. Great concept with adding own flavours and extras as well as choosing what pasta you want. Everything is orderd via their online app and paid online. Love it!
S
Saurabh Lanjewar
Google
2 years ago
5.0
Amazing!
This was my 3rd visit at Vapiano and 1st visit at Vapiano, Bankside at London.
Had Salmon Carbonara Pasta 🍝, what a delicious one it was. The Cheese 🧀 added to the flavour of the Pasta. I like a bit spicy and I was satisfied with the spice level it had.
Look to visit Vapiano again soon with other dishes 👍🏻
Grazie! 🇮🇪
S
Saad Q
Google
3 years ago
5.0
Excellent pizza. Location was very close to the hotel I was staying at (Mercure London Bridge) so it was nice to have a high quality restaurant nearby. Have a very cool contact card system where you load up your card with whatever you want to eat and then pay at the end of your meal.
C
Cassy Lee
Google
3 years ago
4.0
Visited - 22/09/18
Atmosphere - spacious, well-lit, vibrant but music not too loud
Food - chef makes the dish using the pasta you choose at the counter (tip: complementary bread available upon request), food served piping hot, fresh ingredients used, flavour is not too strong; student-friendly prices (+student discount)
Service - friendly staff, convenient ordering system
N
Noel Cherfan
Google
4 years ago
5.0
a definite five stars. Vapiano deserves this rating as they ticked all my check list:
good location, in my case we visited the London bank side restaurant branch, 90 B Southwark Street
SE1 0FD London
great interior decoration.
great choice of food
we have tried every type of their collection and they all taste great.
kids and families will also enjoy the dedicated sitting layout.
i would recommend trying this Italian cuisine if you haven't yet done so.
O
Olga Zozulya
Google
4 years ago
4.0
Good place near the Tate Modern. A lot of space, good food, friendly staff, but if you want pasta - you'll need to wait in line for quite some time (hint is to order salad!). Tables and restrooms are not very clean though... This can be improved. You can take container for leftovers for free - it makes a lot of sense as portions are BIG!
S
Stuart Gilbert
Google
4 years ago
4.0
I used to love coming to Vapiano when I loved in London. It was one of the first places I came to visit when I returned. Unfortunately they have removed my favorite pizza from their menu (it had figs and was delicious).
The salame pizza was ok. My wife had her usual, and said it was just as nice.
There was convenient seating for us with our son and his pushchair.
Very filling, and a good price.
R
Ridwan J Amin
Google
5 years ago
4.0
Food is delicious. Portion sizes are perfect although they may look small in the dish, it surprisingly is filling. Only down side would be that they are slightly stingy with their extras. I requested chicken to be added as an extra to my dish and only had about 3 cubes of chicken breast.
Different system to a normal restaurant. As you walk in you are given a card which you use to scan as you place orders so on your way out you present the card and pay for whatever has been charged to the card. Once you seat yourself to a table, and have decided what to order, you go up to the chef and ask them to cook what dish you like and then select from a variety of different types of pasta to have within your dish. Once order has been completed you scan your card and can just go and enjoy your meal. On your way out simply hand over the card and pay.
U
Ummer Khan
Google
5 years ago
5.0
1st trip to a Vapianos...great experience, loved the novelty factor of queuing up to get what you want to eat. Chicken and beef is halal.... Bonus! Dessert was epic BTW.
E
Elizabeth Chahinian
Google
5 years ago
5.0
This place is one of my best Italian places so far for a quick lunch. Unfortunately, the dessert wasn't that perfect. The concept is great and the food is so tasty! Great service. Highly recommended!
D
Dawid Czerwinski
Google
6 years ago
4.0
Very nice inside, very friendly staff and food is delicious. Generous portions of mains too. Little bit confusing for the first time as there are designated areas to order/pick up pizza, pasta etc. however, the desserts are ordered from the bar. I had to ask to find this out. No free WiFi.
M
Michaela
Zomato
Aug 31, 2019
4.0
Food doesn’t taste nice at all and the staff are too busy having fun that they take long at the till. Very unpleasant environment. Managers are not nice. The concept of the restaurant is extremely long and not worth it. I don’t advise anyone to go to that restaurant especially not the one in Southwark.
D
Dish To Serve
Zomato
Jul 17, 2019
5.0
you see, smell, touch and feel it, too. Chef Ronny Emborg’s all-out sensory kitchen picks produce at its peak and exclusively uses ingredients that are in their seasonal prime to create dishes that deliver a full-bodied sensory experience. By vetting his produce so meticulously, he creates a medley of flavors that impact all your senses, which results in an otherworldly dining experience
G
Geetu Singh
Zomato
Jun 12, 2019
5.0
Awesome food ! One of the best pastas I have ever had ! Chef and staff and extremely polite and friendly and got me an amazingly mouth watering meal ! Kudos 👍
H
Hungry Girl
Zomato
Mar 24, 2019
4.0
This branch of Vapiano has lovely views of Tower bridge and the Tower of London if you sit by the big glass windows at the front.<br/><br/>The concept here is self service so you get given a card and you go over to either the pizza or pasta counters, order your food and the chefs cook it right in front of you. It's nice to be able to speak with the chefs and ask for the dish exactly how you like it. Choice of pastas available.<br/><br/>The portions are generous and taste fresh. Lovely little place perfect for a lazy lunch.
S
Sumukh Herlekar
Zomato
Dec 09, 2018
5.0
Innovation starts here and ends with a satisfied tummy and feel :).. An unique self service place for wonderful Italian food .. the aroma when you enter the place sets the tone and its double the fun when you see the food being prepared and can't wait to pick it up yourself..
I
Ipsita D
Zomato
Sep 13, 2018
3.0
I have had only takeaways from this place so wouldn’t be knowing about the ambience. Didn’t find the quantity up to the mark for the price they charge. The Italian cuisine is good however the consistency isn’t there.
G
Giuseppina
Zomato
Jul 12, 2018
3.0
Nice place and atmosphere. Restaurant is clean and the service is nice. But sadly the food is not that good. It’s ok but not quite authentic.
V
Vikram
Zomato
May 10, 2018
5.0
I have always enjoyed eating at Vapiano, it's very difficult to find a table here most of the times, there quality of food and speed of fulfilling your orders is consistent in all outlets.
A
Abhishek Ghosh
Zomato
May 07, 2018
4.5
Vapiano needs no introduction.<br/>We were a regular to this one in southark. The ambience is great and so is the food. Often finding a table in the evening is difficult cause it gets quite busy.<br/>But people are very friendly and once u manage a table it just is very easy place to have some drinks and dinner with friends or family.
P
Patricia Ferreira Mogne
Zomato
Apr 15, 2018
5.0
I love going to Vapianos, have been in a few different countries and it never seems to disappoint.. <br/>Simply love the concept, and the food is delicious!
P
Prateek
Zomato
Mar 09, 2018
4.0
A really nice play for some delicious and cheesy pizza and amazing pasta. we ordered chicken pizza, pasta and spaghetti. everything was good.
A
Assaad Ghanem
Zomato
Jan 07, 2018
4.0
This Vapiano branch is doing a good job. You can barely find a table to be part of this self-service Italian experience. After choosing what you would like to eat, you punch your order in the machine and get your coin. Once the coin vibrates, you pick-up your order. <br/>We ordered one fussili Alfredo chicken and one Penne Alfredo chicken. The order took some time to be ready. The food was tasty and portions are good for everyone. <br/>The service staff is a bit careless about customers as they were like machines (because it is self-service).<br/>I recommend Vapiano for all friends or colleagues willing to have a simple self-service dining experience in an urban setting.
Q
Quiet Eating
Zomato
Aug 07, 2017
3.5
It is ideal mostly because of its location. Although within a short walk from my church on a Sunday, we aren’t exactly spoilt for choice in Waterloo. Some people might vouch for the Fire Station but I’d rather be burnt to a cinder. So putting such heated remarks aside before things get rather more toasty than I would like, I should introduce you to the concept of Vapiano. An Italian restaurant with a twist. It is not a typical restaurant, there are no waiters. Instead it relies on hunger to motivate people to get their food themselves.
Ö
Özlem Kayış
Zomato
Jul 09, 2017
4.0
Taze pizza ve makarna yemek için ideal. Girişte kredi kartı gibi bişey veriyorlar . Siparişlerini karta işletiyorsun. Biz pizzalarını çok beğendik.
S
Saima
Zomato
Jul 06, 2017
4.5
Great Italian food in a commercial and quick set up. Food cooked in front of you is fresh and tasty. You can even talk to the chef cooking your meal. will return back soon
S
Sunileo
Zomato
Mar 25, 2017
4.5
Variety of options to choose from while the price remains standard. From risottos to pizzas to pastas. Everything is prepared right in front of you with the customisation you want. Ask for more cheese or pepper or vegetables, get your food prepared to suit your taste buds. We got a carbonara Spagetti pasta and alfredo penne pasta prepared that filled our tummy for breakfast on a gloomy Sunday morning.
S
Stella Panda
Zomato
Feb 13, 2017
4.5
for the price you pay, this is mind blowing. the pesto pizza was probably the tastiest thing on the menu. although its very annoying that you have to go up to collect your food, i have no right to complain!
R
Rahul
Zomato
Feb 06, 2017
3.0
It is a good place to go for lunch. It is nice and clean, no doubt about it. But, staff seems to have less knowledge about what is vegetarian and what is not in the menu. I have told by some that Pesto con Spinaci is vegetarian, today they told me that it is not vegetarian. Being a vegetarian, it is a big deal for me.
A
Af
Zomato
Jan 22, 2017
4.5
I'm conflicted about Vapianos, i wasn't sure whether to give it a 5 star rating or a 0 star rating so I'll just run you through the night. I'd heard that the food is amazing and so for my best friend's birthday we decided to go Vapianos. I was so surprised and disappointed that they didn't do bookings yet when called, they said coming at 5:30 with a group of 15 people would be fine. When we arrived at 5:30, there were no tables and for near an hour we had to wait for a table to become free. Bear in mind it was my friends birthday, which was very upsetting. Secondly, there was no where to put coats, the very least they could do is have a cloakroom of there are no backs to the chairs. Thirdly, the waiters were not very compassionate or friendly at all. HOWEVER I ordered carbonara with added grilled chicken and lovely bread. It was amazing. I have never are a better meal. It was so worth how cheap it was. You know I've gone to restaurants and been able to finish a bit burger with fries and macaroni cheese yet I could barely finish this one bowl of pasta it was so sexy. I can't wait to go again but only with like one other person.
K
Karishma Pais (Kim)
Zomato
Jan 19, 2017
3.0
We were headed for a play at "The Bunker" nearby & the place we wanted to eat at did not take bookings and had a 45 min - 1hr waiting line outside, which was how we ended up at vapiano.<br/><br/>I'd heard about vapiano, but I'd never visited before because their menu is very carb heavy and not something I would choose on purpose.<br/><br/>As soon as you enter vapiano, you are given a card for each member in your group. There are then separate counters for salads, pizzas, pasta / risotto, dessert & appetisers.<br/><br/>You stand in line for each of your orders. Pasta & risotto is made as you wait, the salad counter asks you to come back in awhile & the pizza guys give you a buzzer for when your pizza is ready. <br/><br/>You swipe your card at each counter that you order at & then submit your card on exit where they total your bill for paying. <br/><br/>It's cafeteria style, yet not really cafeteria style. <br/><br/>The system works when you are alone & only want to pick up from one counter. You pick up your order before you settle down, but if you want things from multiple counters - a salad + a pizza it's a bit of a bother.<br/><br/>The salads were good. We had a spinach + strawberry salad that was interesting & a carpaccio where I was surprised to see thinly sliced raw mushrooms on it. I was initially sceptical, but it did work.<br/><br/>My husband was very happy with his seafood risotto. They had the rice precooked and toss it with whatever accompaniments & sauces you order, so it didn't take too long once ordered.<br/><br/>The pizza wasn't bad, but not worth it for someone on a minimal carb diet.<br/><br/>The dessert had Nutella & chocolate & vanilla cream, so it was obviously very good - with ingredients like that, you can't go wrong.<br/><br/>I wouldn't enter vapiano on purpose since I try to keep white flour to a minimum & the only option left is the salads (which are cold) There's no hot meal option other than pasta or pizza. <br/><br/>But if you like pasta, then this is a good place to go.<br/><br/>
M
Matcha Udon Dimsum Pasta Foodie
Zomato
Jan 17, 2017
4.0
Had a strawberry salad, very fresh and quick. But the green tea ice cream was average. I guess that's not a drawback since it doesn't specialize in ice creams.
R
Rhea Stephen
Zomato
Dec 31, 2016
4.0
Heard a lot of good reviews about Vapiano. Finally got to try it and I must say I wasn't disappointed. I tried the pollo picante pasta- the orange chilli sauce caught my attention. The portion sizes were good and easy on the wallet. Quite a variety in their menu. Would I say it's authentic Italian- not really, but definitely would go there again.
S
Shashank Gupta
Zomato
Dec 02, 2016
5.0
MUST VISIT!!! Great variety, great food, prices are high but certainly worth it, very good Italian food. Concept of postpaid card is very different and convenient.
H
Hetal S
Zomato
Nov 17, 2016
4.0
Amazing Italian food served in a modern/contemporary environment. Been to the Southwark chain twice and ordered pesto pasta both times (Yes, that's how delicious it was!). The chef cooks your dish live in front of you while you wait and you can customise certain parts of your dish.
S
Supriti Paraskar
Zomato
Oct 22, 2016
3.5
Oh what a delightful place . Good food - I had risotto funghi... my friends had chicken alfredo pasta and estavia (?!) not sure but decent pastas .. although they all loved my order (hoot hoot).. I tried their cheesecake dessert- not particularly impressed , but I intend to try the tiramisu the next time I visit! The highlight of the restaurant in the lovely take away boxes ! The effort they put into presenting that box makes u feel.. that care about and respect their food and want u to take it home not just in some random container .. but in a good storage box that makes u want to open heat and eat the meal yet again :)<br/>Loved the ambience and the fresh basil and rosemary plants on each table - the place does get busy !!
S
Sammijoknows
Zomato
May 25, 2016
4.0
Fast fresh Italian food, yes. I should not like this, as we all know my feelings on restaurant chains, but to be fair, you cannot beat someone taking the ingredients you choose and cooking them in front of you. It is a theatre to watch and satisfying to taste. It is a weird feeling entering an establishment, being given a card to wonder around on your own to discover what you want. It’s kinda self service but not. You have the pizza area and what seems to be the salad area. Then there is the pasta and risotto section where you choose your pasta type (or risotto), ingredients and sauce. This is genius. Sorry but it is. Not sure how qualified these Chefs are, but this is the third time I have been here and each time I have been in awe of their ability to cook up a pasta delight. Sometimes even doing two orders at a time. They ooze confidence and it shows in the finished product.
S
Sammijoknows
Zomato
May 22, 2016
4.0
Fast fresh Italian food, yes. I should not like this, as we all know my feelings on restaurant chains, but to be fair, you cannot beat someone taking the ingredients you choose and cooking them in front of you. It is a theatre to watch and satisfying to taste. <br/><br/>It is a weird feeling entering an establishment, being given a card to wonder around on your own to discover what you want. It's kinda self service but not. You have the pizza area and what seems to be the salad area. Then there is the pasta and risotto section where you choose your pasta type (or risotto), ingredients and sauce. This is genius. Sorry but it is. Not sure how qualified these Chefs are, but this is the third time I have been here and each time I have been in awe of their ability to cook up a pasta delight. Sometimes even doing two orders at a time. They ooze confidence and it shows in the finished product. <br/><br/>During my most recent visit, Eleanor started with the bruschetta duo (roasted ciabatta bread, basil pesto, tomato and grana padano) and also a salad of Chicken, croutons, romaine and grana padano D.O.P. I went straight in on the carbs with pasta, king prawn, basil pesto, cherry tomato, spinach, onions and cream sauce. For main course, Eleanor went with chicken salad. <br/><br/>So you order what you want and you swipe your card for it to record it. You can also go to the bar area to order drinks. <br/><br/>I am not sure how the other venues are, but the one at Bankside is very organised. Each time I have been here, I have found a clean spot to chillax and eat. There is a large eating area just outside on Southwark Street, so in the sunmmer months, you can take advantage of the rays. <br/><br/>I like this spot. It is good spot for a quick lunch or dinner. Of course, if you want the best authentic Italian experience, there are places which you have to go. That said, Vapiano is a good contender as long as they stay true to the fresh ingredients and professional prep I have had the pleasure of enjoying on the last three occasions.
F
Fábio Martins
Zomato
Apr 18, 2016
4.5
My all time favorite italian food restaurant. Love the environment, mood and the way they work.<br/>The pastas are really good! Everyone should try one.
S
Sarahtt
Zomato
Mar 03, 2016
4.0
This place never disappoints despite it being carb loaded. My fav is the prawn pasta with the spelt spaghetti ! Delicious!! The garlic pizza are also good !! Their cabonara is also excellent! Love how they cook in front of you!
S
Sanjukta
Zomato
Dec 04, 2015
4.5
Oh I loved the food. You actually have to wait a bit for the food as it's a live counter and they make it in front of u. The food was good. Really good. The pasta and the bread slice was good.
S
Samhita Kishore
Zomato
Oct 26, 2015
4.0
Vapiano- an Italian restaurant founded in Germany and is now present across many countries in Europe. <br/>Vapiano follows a very interesting concept which blew me off. This concept is simply and quick without any mess. They offer you a card when you enter then you find a place for yourself or your group then decide what to eat on the menu then simply place your own order. You will have to pay in the end and your card indicates and money you have to pay! This is more like do it all yourself and very efficient! <br/>I loved the place and its ambiance, very simple, the tables are fitted with lights and plants at the center,makes it look more like a candle light dinner. <br/>We ordered a verdura pizza and ravioli pasta. The food was decent enough to come back but they can still improve on the authenticity of Italian food. <br/>Overall, really good experience with some good Italian food.<br/>Recommended! <br/>Location- 4/5<br/>Food- 3.5/5<br/>Plating- 4/5<br/>Quality- 4/5<br/>Price- 3.5/5<br/>Experience- 5/5
M
Marie Sheffield
Zomato
Sep 23, 2015
3.5
I attended a tasting at Vapiano in London. I like Italian cuisine so I was surprised I had not heard of Vapiano before. Especially when I discovered there are 120 restaurants around the world with more in development. You may recall I recently went to Tortilla and whilst there was introduced to a new idea in restaurant service. Vapiano works the same way. The only difference is that at Vapiano you get given a ‘card’ by the server at the entrance which you use to order your food and then also serves as your bill at the end of your meal. I thought the food was
F
Felicity Bayley
Zomato
Sep 04, 2015
3.5
I was invited to a Zomato meet up at Vapiano a couple of weeks ago, where my meal was paid for. I'm not a huge fan of Italian restaurants in the UK, particularly the dreaded chain restaurants, but Vapiano left me pleasantly surprised. The room was modern and clean looking, with splashes of Vapiano's signature red, but the main attraction is the fact that you order your food at the counter and it's cooked in front of you. After generous plates of antipasti of bread, cured meats and olives, we ordered our pasta. I went for Granchi di fiume, which in English was crayfish in a lobster sauce which was rich, creamy and very luxurious. I went for the campanelle pasta it's something you rarely find elsewhere and reminded me of my trip to Italy where we found this restaurant in the mountains where no one spoke English and they bought out plates and plates of interestingly shaped pasta. Except we weren't in Italy we were in Southwark, 10 minutes from Waterloo. After pasta, I managed to try a slice or two of the pizzas and a forkful of their strawberry and rocket salad. I really enjoyed the Bruschetta pizza. It was different enough to pique my interest and the flavours were clean and refreshing on a grilled pizza base. When I thought my stomach could take no more, we were served desserts to share. I have never seen so much cream in my life. Don't get me wrong I love cream, but I found it a bit of a heavy way to end the night after all the food we'd had. So I tactically ate all the chocolate bases, hoping no one would notice. I'd certainly recommend Vapiano if you're after a cheap and fun dinner out as their food is really reasonably priced, plus their pasta is vegan, which is great if you're like me and finding somewhere that does decent vegan options for friends is a real struggle in London! Well done Vapiano, you've changed my mind about chain restaurants well at least one's beginning with V serving freshly made pasta and pizza.
G
Got To Be Gourmet
Zomato
Aug 21, 2015
3.5
As many of you will know, I adore Italian food. Bread, cheese, meat, fresh herbs and vegetables, I mean, what’s not to love? Last week I tried out a restaurant which is taking a unique spin on Italian dining, called Vapiano. Originally established in Germany in 2002, it now has over 150 restaurants across Europe, and I visited one of the three London branches, in Southwark.
T
TheVPanda
Zomato
Aug 19, 2015
3.5
Vapiano is such a refreshing concept! <br/>It was amazing to be eating some fresh cooked food and the speed with which they were rolling out the dishes and the crowd could tell you it is worth it. <br/>Love how they cooked the pasta in front of you from booking the pasta to dicing the veggies. Loved the entire experience. <br/>I would've given this place a 4 if not for the horrible deserts.<br/>Overpowering taste of the mousse or the dry and spoilt death by chocolate cake. Find a gellateria nearby after your meal is my suggestion :)
S
Sober N Starving
Zomato
Aug 16, 2015
4.5
What: Dinner at Vapiano<br/><br/>Where: Southwark, London<br/><br/>Value: paid by www.zomato.co.uk<br/><br/>Food Review: To order: beef pasta, a variety of pizzas, side dishes, desserts. As the food was made to order I opted for the beef pasta with the omission of white wine alongside carpenella pasta (the shapes were cute). As someone who likes to change dishes anyway, this was a great idea. The dish was well proportioned and tasty to eat but towards the end the pasta was more than the sauce so perhaps more sauce. The side dishes included salad and cheese, they were simply made but nothing special. The pizzas were delicious, thin and crispy (perhaps not after a big bowl of pasta though). The selection of desserts were equally good but the chocolate tart was definitely the star of the show. <br/><br/>Settings: Great location on the main road. Inside there are various seating places and style to choose from, without being overbearing. Dotted around are plenty of basil plants to add to its authenticity. Near the front of the shop is the stand from where the fresh pasta is made daily. Next comes the ordering and receiving of the pasta of which all is paid for by a plastic card. As this area deals with both, the queues can be long and it takes a while.<br/><br/>Halal: Yes (the chicken and beef not the sausage) <br/><br/>Positive: made to order, fresh pasta<br/><br/>Negetive: queuing and ordering<br/><br/>3 Word Review: Bespoke, delicious, fresh
C
Captain Coriander
Zomato
Aug 15, 2015
4.5
Amazing freshly-made pasta, delicious wood fire oven pizzas, and fantastic dessert - that's all I really ever want from an Italian restaurant. Vapiano offers all of the above on their reasonably-priced menu.<br/><br/>I was invited by the charming Alexandra Kalinowski from zomato to join her and few lovely foodies for a feast at Vapiano. The evening was super fun, with so much food, and lots of food conversation - my kind of dinner!<br/><br/>The place operates like a canteen - you get given a plastic charge card as soon as you walk in. Each time you order something at the food station, you tap the card at the card reader, which loads the item amount onto the card. You pay the total amount on the card when you leave the restaurant. No hassle about splitting bills!<br/><br/>We started off with a plate of antipasti to share - yummy bruschetta, delicate thin slices of prosciutto, salami, and pepperoni, some roasted veggies, and buffalo mozzarella with pesto. Speaking of pesto, the place is scatterred with basil pot plants EVERYWHERE - it's such a great idea. Their pesto is super yummy too (and now I want some more).<br/><br/>We then headed up to the pasta station, where you order your pasta. You pick a pasta dish (e.g. Arrabbiata, Carbonara), which can go with any types of pasta you like (e.g. Spaghetti, Penne). While ordering, you can also ask for the flavour to be tweaked to your liking (extra garlic - YES PLEASE, extra spicy - ABSOLUTELY!). I tried their Salsiccia Con Fichi - that's spicy Italian sausage with onions, fresh figs, and tomato sauce, extra hot of course ;) with spelt spaghetti (which is supposedly healtier than the durum wheat pasta) and it was absolutely delicious! The pasta was cooked al-dente perfect and the sauce so flavoursome. YUM!<br/><br/>I was full to the brim when they brought out a few pizzas for us to try. I restrained myself for a little (because I'm a lady, and ladies don't over-eat) but I gave in pretty quickly - it is afterall wood fire oven pizza, which I love. Boy, am I glad my self-control is so weak - it was so so so good! The base is so thin, the topping full of flavour, and the best part - you can smell the wood-fire-oven-ness as you take a bite. These pizzas take me back to Naples! Try the Caprese (fresh tomatoes + tomato sauce + basil + mozzarella) or Pesto Con Spinaci (fresh spinach + pesto cream sauce + marinated tomatoes + mozzarella).<br/><br/>Did I meantion I was full to the brim? I was ready to waddle home, but Vapiano had other plans for me. They brought out six types of dessert! While my mind was busy at self-control check point, my right hand grabbed a spoon and hover over these desserts like a hawk. I was ooh-ing and aah-ing at each bite (while Alexandra Kalinowski quietly ate all the chocolate bits and cheesecake base). Crema di Fragola (Mascarpone cream with fresh strawberries) was my favourite. They also do some of these dessert in a small portion (£2.5 each) - which is perfec for me because I can never finish a whole portion of dessert!<br/><br/>I checked my skirt to make sure the seam did not burst because of my food baby, then waddled home happily.
F
Federica De Dominicis
Zomato
Aug 14, 2015
4.0
I have had the pleasure of enjoying Vapiano in Southbank, together with some lovely foodies and Zomato team members, as part of a Zomato meetup. Welcomed upon arrival with a warm and friendly smile and a glass of nice red wine, we have been indulging in talks about food and the peculiarity of the establishment, that gives a good opportunity to taste great Italian pasta and pizza and to get a chance to be involved in the preparation of the pasta at the cooking station where you give your order directly to the cook, with a chance to alter the cooking time and the list of ingredients of your sauce. It is a fun alternative to the regular dining, but not sure it would work for a date or to impress. We have been spoilt with a tasting of antipasti, ranging from three types of charcuterie to a bruschetta with fresh tomato, some mozzarella and pesto, fresh bread and a mix of cooked vegetables, with the bruschetta being the champion of the plate. Then it was time to go for the pasta and we enjoyed the novelty of it all, sharing from the abundant portions and getting an idea of what we'll enjoy next time (loved the campanelle with spinach and prawns). While we were already full to the brim, three different kind of pizza landed on the table and we couldn't resist the call of a hot, fragrant, crispy slice, with dough let to rest for 6 hours. Almost ready to sleep on the spot in a food coma, the last drop arrived to cheer us, in the form of six different desserts to share, with a great tiramisù and a strawberries cream that won above all for me. It has been a fantastic evening with the company of lovely people, good food and laughters. Now, other than salivating at the thoughts of all that great food, I'll be on diet for a while. Amit Sangekar Felicity Bayley Alexandra Kalinowski Sheepa Miah Ash Nauradi Captain Coriander
E
Esme
Zomato
Jul 25, 2015
4.5
Fantastic place! Eaten here twice on our trip to London... Both times delicious. They have a great, easy order, card system too. First time we shared a cheese garlic bread and a pizza, second time I had delicious carbonara pasta. Only reason it isn't a perfect 5 is because my pasta was so much faster than my hubby's pizza, that I was done before his food was ready. We took his pizza to go though which was convenient. Sadly the garlic bread that visit was lacking a lot of cheese. Won't stop me from going there again though!
G
Gargi Nandkishor Deshmukh
Zomato
May 24, 2015
5.0
Italian food at its BEST!! :DI am absolutely adore this place! The ambiance and location is exceptional. The seating arrangement and the counters are comfortable.<br/><br/>The food was delicious and freshly prepared right in front of you. You have the choice to choose from a variety of pasta and recipes.....all better the previous.<br/><br/>My personal favourite is the 'Scampi E Spinachi, Pasta!<br/>The flavour of garlic, prawns, pesto and spinach is mesmerising. The helping given is quite filling.<br/><br/>Also, the burden on the wallet is quite low. A single person can have a decent meal with £12-14/-<br/><br/>I would recommend you to go here.....either alone or with friends and family....it is a great place.
M
Mircea Lazăr
Zomato
May 07, 2015
3.5
Vapiano is ideal for lunch or a quick dinner, no wonder it's such a successful franchise. Everything is prepared fresh, the pasta is made on the premises, and they have a wide variety of combinations. <br/><br/>This branch is sometimes heaving with tourists and workers from the nearby offices. This was the case today, but I got lucky and managed to get served relatively quickly. The spaghetti carbonara were very tasty, if a bit sticky. But hey, it's a cooked lunch for a tenner (with drink). <br/><br/>Make sure you don't lose the restaurant charge card, or it may cost you dearly.
A
Alfy Looan
Zomato
Mar 24, 2015
4.5
Lovely food, was the first time that i ve been in these famous chain were you help yourself in front of the chef wile is cooking, you can actually chose your ingredients!!!
W
Waqqas Awan
Zomato
Feb 25, 2015
4.0
I'm a big pizza fan. Whenever I come here I always order a pizza. It has always been great and the service is rather fast. I couldn't vouch for the authenticity of the Italian menu, but it certainly is regular on my list.
K
Kristine Diana Tsiknaki
Zomato
Feb 17, 2015
5.0
If you are looking for a good Italian restaurant for lunch or dinner make sure you check this one out. From their home made pasta they cook right in front of you to your exact specifications (fans of customisation will love this) to their delicious pizzas, this is definitely the place to visit. I definitely recommend the salami and ricotta pasta as well as the classic carbonara (which tastes like no other!).
A
Anubhuti Kapoor
Zomato
Dec 29, 2014
5.0
Although their other branches are usually clogged, the Vapiano at South Bank has always been unusually relaxed whenever I've visited. So, if it's pasta you're after, this is the branch to go to (since at Oxford St you'll usually spend at least 15-20 minutes standing in line for your turn). Also, having once spent over 6 hrs here with only one pizza between two people (came in at 5:30/6 and were the last customers to leave), I can confidently say that they're not ones to frown upon slow eaters. <br/><br/>My favourite is the tagliatelle in pesto basilico. While I'm generally fond of green pesto, Vapiano is what got me addicted to it!<br/><br/>Overall both great ambience and great food.
J
Jasvant
Zomato
Nov 20, 2014
3.5
Vapiano:Vapiano is a chain in London for fast food Italian food.They have live counters and its serve urself.The food is really good especially the pizza and it's very reasonably priced so overall a wonderful experience
H
Harsh Sajnani
Zomato
Nov 11, 2014
4.0
Being a huge fan of Italian food, I usually find myself leaning towards a pizza in most dilemmas involving Italian cuisines. However, this is not the case with Vapiano.<br/><br/>The chef ME2 and I have become very good friends after our countless encounters at Vapianos, where he makes my special Pesto Pasta with Chillis, Chicken and Pine nuts. Obviously I'd recommend one to have it with spelt spaghetti as that would be the healthier option. Possibly the best value for money in all of London. And Home to my favourite pasta on earth.
B
Buchi
Zomato
Nov 10, 2014
3.0
They serve mainly fresh pizza and pasta dishes. The arrabbiata was good nothing spectacular about the taste. Their services were awesome and the staffs were really friendly. Beautiful and cosy restaurant
M
Mehreen
Zomato
Oct 27, 2014
1.5
I love Vapiano but I really dislike this branch unfortunately. Every time I've been it's always been full of city workers from the local area, so the setting isn't as casual and relaxed as the other branches (Near Oxford st. And Soho). Also didn't find the staff as friendly, but quite lousy as I found a piece of meat in my pizza (ordered veg)!!!!! Absolute put off. <br/><br/>Overall, I'd say it's only nice to visit here if you work in the local area otherwise there are better places for lunch in South Bank.
K
Karan Gupta
Zomato
Oct 27, 2014
3.5
As a picky eater, Vapiano is perfect. Being able to totally customise a meal really appeals to me.<br/><br/>I really like Vapiano's rustic decor, creating a homely Italian atmosphere. <br/>Vapiano is totally unique as when you enter, you are handed a card in which you charge all your purchases. You can go to the pasta or pizza counters, and ask the chef to cook what food you want including the sauce and amount of chillies, etc. You then swipe your card, and can go to the bar and grab a drink before taking your food and helping yourself to a seat. <br/>I usually go for the pesto with spelt spaghetti.<br/><br/>Vapiano is a great place for an affordable meal, whether it be lunch or dinner. The customisation it offers is really useful, and I intend to go back soon.
A
Amar Sehgal
Zomato
Oct 26, 2014
4.0
What I love about Vapiano is the fact that you can have something completely different everytime you go as it's totally customisable. <br/><br/>The different counters make it extremely unique; salad, pizza and pasta. They also have specials if you need some inspiration!<br/><br/>The pasta is always cooked in front of you, with fresh ingredients, which I appreciate!<br/>The portions are also of great size for the price you pay. Approx £15 per person.<br/><br/>This branch is super spacious; a variety of high and low seating - so you choose!
I
Iqura Mirza
Zomato
Oct 22, 2014
3.0
Whilst looking for a good pasta place I came across Vapianos which I had previously heard lots about. The interior was appealing and the place was quite spacious with great seating available. There was a variety of pastas to choose from- I ordered 'Salvia' (£7.95) which was white pasta combined with tomatoes, feta cheese and spices. My only concern regarding the pasta was that it could've been boiled a little longer to make it softer as I felt It was a bit hard; nonetheless I enjoyed my meal and was quite pleased with the overall experience. Services were great and staff were friendly.
C
Carina
Zomato
Oct 20, 2014
4.5
This was my second time in Vapiano, and although it was a different one in a different location, it was just as busy!<br/><br/>Its an Italian restaurant so if you fancy some pizza or pasta (many different types of pasta to choose from!) then i suggest you check out Vapiano! <br/><br/>In both occasions i chose to go for a pasta dish, with bruschetta for my starter. The food was amazing and the fantastic thing about Vapiano is that everything is made when you order, for example a pasta dish will be cooked in front of you. The pasta is delicious and there really is a range of variety not only in regards to pasta types but also dishes. <br/><br/>I went during the evening, and it was extremely busy, but this did not mean the service was bad, on the contrary, i found the staff fun and lively, and considering food is made on the spot this can be quite stressful especially during busy times of the day.<br/><br/>The ambience is fun, busy and loud, so don't expect to be able to have a quiet meal, its a great place to get together with friends and have a fun dinner out.<br/><br/>The restaurant itself is gorgeous and rather funky, they have lil sofa chairs as well as normal tables which gives it their fun, vibrant vibe though at the same time being relaxing and down to earth.<br/><br/>As i said before, you see your food being made in front of you because its similar to self-service, you get given an electronic card when you go in and everything you buy will get put on there and you pay at the end. Its a rather different experience then other restaurants because there are no table waiters. <br/><br/>All in all, a great meal in a vibrant setting and a different experience!
N
Nicole Janossy
Zomato
Oct 19, 2014
3.5
Vapiano is great place for a week day lunch, although admittedly depending on the time of day you go, it can get quite packed. Other than that, the service is great and I'm a big fan of getting to see your food being prepared and getting to personalize your lunch or dinner. I would personally recommend their pizzas. I don't like pizzas with a very thick crust and their's is great because it's light and crispy!
R
Rebecca
Zomato
Oct 13, 2014
3.5
Okay, I can't be the only one who got really confused here. <br/><br/>When you arrive in the restaurant, you are given this card, which tracks what you eat as you go, and totals how much you have to pay when you leave. <br/><br/>You hand it to the chef, who then swipes the card to register what you have ordered. At the time I didn't know this, and if it wasn't for my friend who noticed me gawping at the card I was holding, I would still be sat there. Looking back it was obvious what you were meant to do. <br/><br/>I think the whole reason is to save time, as you can order as soon as you arrive, and the food is cooked right before your eyes. There is a broad range of Italian food available, perfect for people who are picky with what they eat.<br/><br/>The atmosphere is pleasant and clean. If you need to eat something quickly in London, but still want the dine-in experience, Vapiano is brilliant.
P
Puja C
Zomato
Oct 06, 2014
5.0
Yummy pasta. Always. Must try the spinaci-scampi , gorgeously prawns tossed in white sauce and spinach. What more can you ask for. <br/>Ohh and pretty pocket friendly.
M
Martha Foster
Zomato
Sep 26, 2014
4.0
I do not really agree with the other reviewers here who do not understand the concept of this place. The food is fresh, seasonal and true to the concept. This place is is a hit among all the age groups. You can come here for a romantic meal, or with group of friends, or even if you need a quick bite all by yourself. The service was prompt.
A
Amber Marshall
Zomato
Sep 23, 2014
4.0
We took our daughter here for her birthday on her demand. I must say, her choice was excellent. The staff were so polite and helpful. The food tasted delicious. I would definitely go back again just for the service, which is enough said. Do stop by if you can, this place will not disappoint you.
L
Louis Parry
Zomato
Sep 23, 2014
3.5
Great concept of 'swipe and dine'. Simple and enjoyable Italian menu with very good ingredients. My personal recommendations would be a plate of antipasti or a salad before picking the pasta and adding one of the delicious sauces on display. There is also a wide range of pizzas on the go, with many unfamiliar and interesting toppings. <br/>The atmosphere and ambience is chic and stylish. The prices are quite reasonable !
P
Prashant Dora
Zomato
Sep 20, 2014
3.5
I usually visit this place during lunchtime. The restaurant follows a strange way for the food ordering service and it works quite well when it is empty. Also, don't go at or around 1 pm. I made that mistake and it took like an hour to order the food. I would recommend you people to go at or after 2 pm. It’s empty and much more enjoyable then. I ordered pasta. It was fresh and delicious with a number of flavours to it. Visiting this place again soon.
Florence Fraser
Zomato
Sep 18, 2014
3.5
If you're after good, fresh, tasty pasta this is the place for you! They cook the pasta in front of you whilst you wait. It's pretty quick once you get to the front of the queue that means it's really fresh. I went for a different pasta other than penne and fusili with bolognese, extra garlic and chilli, cheese on top and bread on the side. My colleague went for the scampi e spinach with fusilli pasta...which she always goes for as it’s very good. Do pay a visit if you're hungry and passing through the street!
A
Amit Chhabra
Zomato
Sep 17, 2014
3.5
Visited this restaurant sometime back with friends and had a really good time. The staff is friendly and wouldn't give a chance to disappoint. They have an open kitchen and offer delicious pizzas to die for. We generally visit this place with a lot of friends and have no trouble in splitting the bill as it is charged to individual accounts.
A
Abhinav Chia
Zomato
Sep 17, 2014
2.0
With exceedingly great character, this place has awful food much to the disappointment of many. I had ordered a pasta which was downright undercooked to say the least. Being a die hard fan of 'al-dente' I am a always a critique of this recipe. It was really underdone in spite of bringing it in the notice of the waiter while he was taking my order. Maybe i tried the wrong dish because from the outward view of this place, it did seem promising!
I
Isabelle Green
Zomato
Sep 16, 2014
3.5
The food here is excellent and freshly prepared. You can chose your own ingredients, spices as well the the pasta type. The pizzas too are wonderful, with a crunchy crust to bite into. It meets the high standards of Italian cuisine established by the franchiser. Great place to have a lovely Italian meal.
S
Shivangi Amin
Zomato
Sep 14, 2014
5.0
The pizzas here are from an average to good in terms of taste and ingredients. The service is very prompt with great staff. One gets a credit card at the entrance and can order on that. It serves the trouble of splitting bills if many people are there. Very unique idea. The cocktails here are great and value for money.
Elijah Schofield
Zomato
Sep 10, 2014
1.0
This place is over hyped, neither the quantity nor the quality will be enough for you. The staff is also a bit rude and the food is also not very tasty. One can make a better pasta at home. The bread is still compromising but again we won't be spending this much just to have good breads.
R
Reuben Morrison
Zomato
Sep 06, 2014
3.5
Now a days it is very difficult to find a place where you get get your meal super fast but thankfully I have got one.<br/>Here you can also customize your food the way you like it,. You also get a good amount of different plates/choices for your money and we loved how fresh the ingredients were . I did not understand why there was no dessert in their menu because at that point I was in dire need of them.
L
Lewis Rowe
Zomato
Sep 06, 2014
3.5
A simple yet impressive concept at this place. They give a card on arrival, which is scanned each time something is ordered. Pizzas and pastas have separate counters, made fresh to order. Moreover, an impressingly huge menu to choose from, 18 varieties of pizzas and 22 for pasta with some changes made on a regular basis.
T
Thomas Watkins
Zomato
Sep 02, 2014
3.0
My experience here was rather decent. The food is exceptionally good and one can add ingredients at the counter, to their meal being prepared. The best bit is that they do not charge for these ingredient .However be sure of expecting food that is not authentic and service that is slightly poor.
T
Taylor Dickinson
Zomato
Sep 01, 2014
4.0
I feel having food at this place was a great experience. We were given a card just after entering before heading to the counter to order our meal. There is a wide range of options to choose from and everything looked quite tempting but I chose a pizza. Your card is scanned post your order and you are seated to wait for your food. You are given a buzzer to take your order from the counter. <br/>I was pretty impressed with my pizza which had a nice thin crust with light toppings and I surprisingly did not feel heavy after leaving. On top of this, fresh basil plants are available all over the place that can be had with the food. And yes, water is free but you have to make the effort of getting it from the drinks counter but because it is a self-service kind of a place, there are no extra service charges as well.<br/>You pay for your food on your way out according to the scanned reading of your card and can enjoy German Gummi sweets as dessert.
B
Bradley Barton
Zomato
Sep 01, 2014
3.0
If you want to have good Italian food, then this one is a good option. The main attraction for this place is its food because of the quality ingredients used in preparing it. Even though it is not a typical warm, cosy and a homely Italian place but it is pretty spacious, it's ambience is pretty calm and generally people have a good time here.
H
Harvey Miles
Zomato
Aug 28, 2014
4.0
The conceptualization of this restaurant is brilliant. There are no reservations required. The prices are very reasonable for fresh and delicious pasta. The Caesar salads are fresh and taste yummy. The selection of wines is also very nice. The cognac sauce was just fantastic. The mix and match pasta types and sauces is a great idea. Loved it.
S
Sean Alexander
Zomato
Aug 26, 2014
1.5
The restaurant has self service counters where you order different parts of your meal and then collect once it has been cooked, which can be a little tiresome for some.<br/>The food was average with some dishes not appetizing at all.<br/>The pasta was soggy and tasted awful.<br/>The money spent now feels wasted.<br/>Shall not return again.
R
Raunak Gandhi
Zomato
Aug 25, 2014
4.5
Great experience visiting the restaurant. Even waiting in queue did not seem much of an issue as the pasta was prepared. It was totally appetising, completely fresh and had good ingredients. Even the prices of wine were fair and decent. To top it up, the place had a nice, modern, refreshing and an easy going setting. All in all a great experience. Would love to visit it again as well as all the other places i go. Simply awed.
Cameron John
Zomato
Aug 24, 2014
4.0
The best bit is that the food is made in front of you and you get to see the pasta tossed. Another innovative thing was the buzzer given to you in case you ordered a pizza, signalling when to come and collect it. The pizza was really light, thin and crispy. The portions are big and filling too. The service was wonderful, even though they were really busy at that point. <br/>Must go!
Michael Bentley
Zomato
Aug 24, 2014
2.5
We visited this place a couple of days back and found long queues of people standing up for food as well as drinks, leaving their table unattended. We ordered a pizza which was decent and a pasta, which was patheic and tasted like glue. This place definitely had nothing Italian about it.
K
Kai Holt
Zomato
Aug 22, 2014
1.5
I have tried this restaurant at various places around the globe and it has never been a disappointment for me. But this time, it was not a very good experience. The pasta that I ordered, was half-cooked as well as the vegetables in the dish. At first I , thought this was due to the rush at the restaurant that led to the chef cooking in a haste. But, when I visited the restaurant again, the food we ordered was again not up to the mark. And this time I cannot blame the rush at the restaurant because it was reasonably empty. This simply portrays ignorance on the part of the staff. A major disappointment, yet again.
A
Alexander Gilbert
Zomato
Aug 17, 2014
1.0
This place is utter rubbish. Not recommended if you're in a group as it is even difficult to sit al together. The drinking glasses are sized like that of a midget's and the food is close to disappointing. The staff refuted when i complained about not wanting the 'spicy' sausage on my pizza at least twice. I will be avoiding this restaurant in future as it was a terrible experience.
C
Christopher Todd
Zomato
Aug 16, 2014
3.5
I had a nice experience dining here. The place can be a bit confusing, as one has to order food at different stations. Although this keeps the food to a low price but the ordering method is not very well-explained. The staff needs to be more adept and friendly but they were polite and nice. The interiors were decorated in a very cozy fashion and the food was delicious.
Ollie Archer
Zomato
Aug 15, 2014
1.0
The food was above average but the service was very poor. I wasn't entertained politely . <br/>This place will loose your pocket very easily in terms of the money you have in your banks. <br/>The portions were also not sufficient. <br/>Not a place I would love to go again.
J
Jacob Walsh
Zomato
Aug 13, 2014
1.0
Terrible experience here. The tables were filthy and so were the washrooms. There was no toilet roll or soap to wash ones hands with in the washroom.The ambience was horrible in the restaurant. The staff did not care and paid no heed to the food being so inedible. It failed me on all accounts!
C
Cameron Mcdonald
Zomato
Aug 13, 2014
4.0
The Cray fish pasta here is to die for! What cannot go unnoticed is the fact that they always give you free bread with it. The balance of flavours is something I am always moved by. Saturday nights at this place should never be missed solely because they are lively and joyous evening with strangers who are all enjoying to the core.
M
Max Gill
Zomato
Aug 12, 2014
3.5
You can get delectable pasta at this restaurant in London.<br/>Kids portions go half for half prices. Much appreciated.<br/>The chef cooks pasta as per individual taste and can accommodate varied taste palates.<br/>Lovely experience.<br/>The service was slow earlier which has now been fixed. So no problem there. The decor is well done, suitable for family outing.
J
Jasmine Griffiths
Zomato
Aug 07, 2014
4.0
This place reminded me of good old college days when you have to help yourself and your food will be given in cafeteria tray.<br/>Their pasta was very fresh and I loved it , but their pizza does require some improvement.<br/>Prices were cheap and food was also tasty .<br/>Definitely going to come here again with my college buddies.
Christopher Clements
Zomato
Aug 05, 2014
4.0
The concept of this restaurant is one of a kind. You get to grill your own food, like kebabs. It is a great way to choose your meal and cook it right in front of you. The variety of food that this place offers is amazing and there is a vast range of drinks available too.
D
Darcey Matthews
Zomato
Aug 02, 2014
3.0
The concept of this restaurant is quite an interesting one. The quality of food was very good and I enjoyed my stay over there. The prices were in a reasonable range and it was good value for money. I recommend you to visit this place some time and I am pretty sure you won't be disappointed with your choice.
T
The Wing Man
Zomato
Jun 02, 2014
3.0
After visiting another Italian restaurant with a number of outlets in London (I won't name it but it rhymes with Zorro) it was Vapiano's turn. A couple of my friend's are in disagreement as to which is the better of the two and the final decision came down to me.<br/><br/>Now it is nice to see a restaurant attempting a novel way of service however in my opinion Vapiano's just seems too much like a school canteen (although granted this would be a very nice school). Whether or not this matters is very dependant on the meal you are looking for. So for a quick work lunch this would offer a good option (if a tad too expensive) but for a night out with friends/ a date I really don't see this being the place to choose. As the chain does very well across the world my opinion may not be the general consensus but this is how I see it.<br/><br/>Due to a bit of a health kick I decided to go for the Reef n Beef insalata. It was OK. I felt there was a distinct lack of the main ingredient which seemed a bit stingy to me and what was there wasn't anything overwhelming. Due to some generous friends I always get to try a bit of everything, so from these additional tastes I can definitely say the pasta is the best option available. The carbonara was nice with a good kick to it and the arrabbiata also didn't disappoint. The pizza however was very crispy (overdone) and I have had much better at many other restaurants.<br/><br/>Due to the Vapiano system of ordering there is not really much service to speak of (which is good news for those who in disagreement with the influx of 'discretionary' service charges). I personally don't like this as I always see the service as a major part of a meal out and can really separate the wheat from the chaff. This method although good for those in a rush is really quite strange. One of my companions after ordering the pizza was stuck in a sort of limbo as he was unsure of whether to go and wait at the table as he would just have to get up and go collect the food when called. So you end up having a number of people standing around aimlessly waiting and looking uncomfortable. Additionally as everyone goes to collect their food etc. it created a quite disjointed dining experience and as we were there with a group of about 10 it takes away some of the social aspect of the night.<br/><br/>Price-wise it is pretty standard (paying just shy of £15 each for meal and drinks) however in my case I would've liked to see a more generous offering of the key ingredients of the dish.<br/><br/>Overall an OK experience but I won't be rushing back. I have to say I prefer the previous Italian restaurant chain we visited.
C
Cameron Douglas
Zomato
May 23, 2014
4.0
I go to Vapianos pretty often these days. Great fresh food, relatively decently priced (particularly by London standards), and quick. <br/><br/>The operating model is what makes this place different. As you enter you are given a card which is used to keep a tab on your orders. This card is then handed back to the front desk as you leave and pay. You order by going to one of a number of counters, the chef then swipes your card (thereby recording your order), and the food is cooked right in front of you. My favourite dish has to be the diced sirloin beef in a creamy truffle sauce and rocket leaves with parpadelle pasta. Delicious! If you order a pizza you are given a buzzer and asked to wait 15 mins or so until the pizza is done. <br/><br/>Due to the restaurant's business model, the atmosphere is unsurprisingly 'canteen-y'- quite noisy and bustley, not somewhere you'd want to go for a quiet romantic date. But perfect for a quickish lunch or casual dinner. <br/><br/>Plus, you get free gummy bears on the way out! What's not to love!
S
Shak
Zomato
May 20, 2014
4.0
You know, I don't think I eat enough Italian food. Chinese, Indian and (for heaven's sake) Turkish always seem to be the default choices, which is a shame because I think I prefer Italian over most of those. <br/><br/>Whatever the case, it was refreshing to visit Vapiano tonight - the food was good and prepared in pretty novel style, right in front of where you queue to place your order. We went to the Bankside location which was clean and spacious, with some very polite if overworked staff. As as a bonus desserts were good too - and served in both small and large sizes which I considered a masterstroke.<br/><br/>Vapiano isn't the most amazing places I've been to, but it's most certainly a solid choice and one I'll definitely go to again if passing.
W
We Love Food, It's All We Eat
Zomato
Apr 17, 2014
3.5
We first discovered Vapiano on one of our visits to Sweden, when our budget was low and we couldn’t afford to spend a fortune on a meal, which is pretty unavoidable in Stockholm.<br/><br/>Vapiano is a German chain serving up fresh cooked to order Italian fare. With locations worldwide, from NYC, Brasil, South Korea… Each diner is handed a chip card, which you swipe at the various ordering points, totting up what you’re spending and then pay at the till as you leave, swiping a handful of the complimentary Gummi bear sweets at the same time.<br/><br/>We loved the ease of the card system, reducing the pain and tedium of splitting the bill at the end of the night. I have had a similar idea for years which I was hoping would get me rich one day, but I’ve given up on that idea.<br/><br/>For We Love Food's full review and more pictures go to... http://welovefood-itsallweeat.com/2012/12/02/vapiano-london-2-90b-southwark-street-london-se1-0fd/
S
Shake
Zomato
Mar 13, 2014
4.0
Good atmosphere, this is a good place if you looking for fesh pasta or pizza, they have a great selection and food is delicious. I love the pasta counter they make my pasta just the way I like it with bit of chillies its yummy and the spinach pizza is to die for. The prices are very reasonable as well you won't break the bank going to Vapianos. It's always nice to see the Chef making your food in front of you i love the experience and the quality is always fresh they also sell very nice ice teas. It really doesn't have the usual chain feel to the place and I have yet to have a bad meal at Vapianos
K
Kissjuanita5
Zomato
Mar 13, 2014
4.5
Went here for my birthday meal with a group of 30 friends. The food was amazing according to the entire group and I couldn't have asked for a better meal and I am extremely hard to please when it comes to food. The only downside was the seating and some of the staffs attitude. It wasn't really appreciated having to move tables and chairs on my birthday. Once seated we all had an amazing time.<br/>Would definitely recommend and am going back
K
Kiran Nayak
Zomato
Dec 15, 2013
5.0
My work place is right opp. to this restaurant. So I used to keep watching it day in and day out (week days mind you). On the outsete this looked like one of those expensive eat outs the fine dine types which you'd probably want to reserve for a special occasion. <br/>But not until I browsed the menu f4om Zomato! It didn't seem that expensive so I decided to try it last Sunday. <br/>In we went and the hostess asked if it was our first time there and on hearing a yes she explained how it worked there.<br/>You get a smart card using which you order food. There are pizza, salad and pasta counters. A menu is handed out to you. You choose what you want and go to the counter and order. They put it onto to your card. If you come back to order more it just gets accumilated in the card. And then you pay while exiting.<br/>We ordered a veg pesto pizza and funghi pasta. One gets to choose the type of pasta and we chose the safe penne. Funghi.was about oyster and button mushrooms with cream sauce. In ine word it was awesome. The pizza too was so good so very unlike what Domino's or pizza huts' serve you, thankfully.<br/>We did order a garlic pizza bread which was a mistake. It looked more of a garlic naan but minus garlic. What??? Yes. We didn't fins any essence of garlic in the garlic bread which was such a let down from such a good eatery.<br/> We ordered tiramisu and panna cota which were not great but nothing to complain about either. Decent ones.<br/>The experience overall was just wonderful and I'm out to mark this restaurant as one of my faves. Partly because of the ambience. Large windows overlooking the streets. Experience of watching pasta being made for you in front of you. For a unique experience of a self serve, fast food style fine dining restaurant. 3 cheers. Staff were warm and friendly if I forgot to mention.<br/>A plave I will miss when I get back home to India and will be looking out if they ever make there.<br/>And all this mind you for just under 20 bucks.<br/>I pity myself for being to have paid more for a home delivered stuff which was neither tasty nor filling. <br/>Go folks go! Eat out at Vapiano!
L
Laura De San Pedro
Zomato
Nov 09, 2013
5.0
Original idea, amazing food. Freshly made pasta in front of you.
F
Forks-Up
Zomato
Mar 06, 2013
0.0
The Vapiano concept is simple: each diner is given a card on arrival, which is scanned each time they order something. Separate counters offer pizzas, pastas and salads, all made fresh to order. For a pizza / pasta joint, Vapiano has an impressively broad menu, offering 18 different pizzas and 22 pasta dishes, plus regularly changing specials. What’s more, when you go for the pasta you don’t just choose your sauce – you also get to pick your base, from a choice of 11 (yes, 11) different pastas. Drinks are served at your table or available from the bar, which also serves dessert. At the end of the meal, each diner takes his card to the tills at the door to settle up. This is an excellent way to avoid having to get out the calculator at the end of a big group meal, and makes it easy to transition from high table to comfortable couch if you want to relax with a coffee or digestif at the end of your meal, without the need to transfer your bill.<br/>
A
Ai Pheng Yeap
Zomato
Feb 16, 2013
0.0
Vapiano is spacious, everyone seems happy. It is not one of those cosy, homey Italian places but it still uses quality ingredients and exudes calm...
G
Gino
Zomato
Jan 27, 2013
2.0
Nice place, awful food :(. German company trying to cook Italian didn't sound too promising, infact, despite the success of the branch just off Oxford St, the food was a disaster.<br/>Although the concept of chip card system could be interesting, it definitely didn't work at Vapiano in Southwark: not ideal having to do long queue standing up for food then for drinks, leaving your table unattended. On the good side, pizza was decent and atmosphere is buzzing but the pasta was GLUE, definitely nothing Italian about it. Trust me!
B
Behram Modi
Zomato
Jan 23, 2013
4.5
Well known for its Italian cuisine, Vapiano is a restaurant that I visit frequently. It is conveniently located, around a 5-7 minute walk from London Bridge station and the food is mouth-wateringly delicious. The menu features a typical range of pizzas and pastas, along with various starters. The ambiance gives of a very lively yet sophisticated vibe. The system of getting a card in the beginning and having to pay at the end depending on how much has been charged to it, adds to the overall experience. The above, coupled with the fact that prices are fantastically low and portions very generous makes it a place that requires repeated visiting. Having been to both the one at London Bridge and the one at Oxford Street, I prefer the former as it is less busy, thus creating an atmosphere more conducive for having a pleasant conversation over a meal.
A
Akanksha Virmani
Zomato
Jan 09, 2013
4.0
Vapiano is located in southwark, very close to the millenium bridge ! It's a great Italian restaurant that serves freshly made pasta in front of your eyes. Pizzas are freshly baked and the taste is that of authentic Italian. It offers wines and beers and that too at a nominal price. The location is great , ambience perfect , friendly staff and awesome service. It's an ideal place for business lunches and couple dates when you are not looking for something very fancy. It's friendly to you and your pocket. A must try !
S
Sioux
Zomato
Dec 06, 2012
2.0
Don't eat the pasta. The concept is great and the decor is too, but the food we ate was awful. The pasta was undercooked - I like 'al dente', but this really was underdone and incredibly salty. Other menu options might be better, but I would recommend avoiding the pasta.
