Located off La Plaza Park in Cotati, Slow Co. Pizza is quickly becoming a local favorite. A new addition to the downtown area, it stands out as a fresh alternative to traditional pizza delivery with a unique, approachable menu. Despite being the third pizza shop within a two-block radius, Slow Co. Pizza has managed to carve its niche by emphasizing house-made, locally sourced ingredients.
The name “Slow Co.” is a nod to the restaurant’s focus on slow-fermented pizza dough, represented by the snail featured in its branding. The fermentation process, combined with fresh, local ingredients, ensures that each pizza offers a unique flavor profile.
On a recent visit, I was surprised to find the restaurant buzzing with customers on a weeknight, yet by luck, I managed to grab the last available table for two—delightfully illuminated by a snail-themed tea light. The decor is simple yet inviting, creating a relaxed atmosphere. For added entertainment, patrons can borrow various games, such as mini ring-toss, available near the register.
Slow Co. Pizza specializes in personal-sized pizzas, making it a great option for sharing among friends or family. During my visit, two pizzas stood out: the classic “The Bird,” featuring red sauce and mozzarella, and the spicy “Pep in Your Step.” Despite the whimsical snail-themed decor, the pizza arrived surprisingly quickly and piping hot, much to my delight.
“The Bird” was a nostalgic favorite, offering a classic, slightly greasy (in a good way) slice with tangy red sauce that complemented the charred edges of the crust perfectly. Meanwhile, “Pep in Your Step” offered a bold and flavorful twist. It combined red sauce, pepperoni, mozzarella, green olives, Calabrian chilies, scallions, spicy honey, and Estero Gold Reserve cheese. Each bite brought a different blend of flavors, making for a unique dining experience.
Slow Co. Pizza has something for everyone. Adults can enjoy natural wines and local beers, while kids can indulge in Valley Ford soft-serve ice cream with rainbow sprinkles or chocolate malt. Of course, the star of the show is the pizza, which will appeal to all ages.
While the overall experience was positive, a few minor issues arose. The seating arrangement could use some improvement; the tables along the wall—half booth-style, half chairs—felt cramped. The proximity of the tables made it a challenge to settle in comfortably, as we had to awkwardly maneuver around neighboring guests. Spacing the tables out a bit more would improve the overall comfort for diners.
In conclusion, Slow Co. Pizza is a great addition to Cotati’s dining scene. Offering locally sourced ingredients and a fun, casual atmosphere, it’s a standout choice when you’re looking for something beyond the typical cheese and pepperoni pizza. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, be sure to visit Slow Co. Pizza at 8197 La Plaza in Cotati. The restaurant is open Tuesdays through Fridays, 4-8 p.m., and Saturdays from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. and 4-8 p.m.
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