Co Tu has become something of a legend with Asian food lovers in Warsaw, though relatively few foreign visitors know of this fast-food eatery located just off the popular tourist track of Nowy Swiat. Established twenty years ago by a Vietnamese immigrant, it is run today by his niece, Nguyet (Moon) - a great favorite with the patrons - with the help of several other family members. She has perpetuated her late uncle's dedication to fine food at prices that even students of the nearby Warsaw U can afford. A three-course lunch - with soup, main course (all served with rice and salad), beverage and dessert - will set you back as little as10 US dollars. There is almost a hundred items on the menu - and some of the hits include spicy fish soup, grilled beef with sesame, chicken with chili sauce, roast duck and many more. Co Tu has twice been honored with the coveted "Golden Ladle" award for consistent quality of cuisine and service - something that is not necessarily the norm with a lot of other Asian fast-foods in Warsaw. You order at the counter, pay, pick up your cutlery and take a seat at one of the dozen or so tables - where your order will be brought to you within minutes. No tips are expected. Co Tu might not be that easy to find for a visitor: though the address suggests location right on the popular tourist route of Nowy Swiat - it is in fact situated some 50 yards to the east of the street-front buildings, within the first block. Enter one of the gates on the eastern side of the street, pass through the backyard and a row of shops parallel to Nowy Swiat and look for the first, bright-yellow unit in a row of shops perpendicular to Nowy Swiat. - It's not as complicated as it sounds and you will be rewarded with a good meal and a broad smile from proprietress Nguyet.
