When we asked a local Rapallo bartender for his top recommendation to take a date out for dinner, he sent us up into the hills to U Giancu, and it turns out his go-to recommendation was absolute gold. A hidden gem that’s been serving up incredible food and quirky charm since 1960.

Part traditional Italian trattoria, part comic book museum, U Giancu is unlike anywhere else. The decor is wall-to-wall comic art, a setting that fits perfectly with the legendary owner. He greeted us with open arms and proceeded to make several playful, theatrical hat changes throughout the night—each hat more eccentric than the last.

The dining room at U Giancu, looking out over the Ligurian hills
The dining room at U Giancu, looking out over the Ligurian hills
Wall-to-wall comic art in the trattoria
Wall-to-wall comic art in the trattoria

Then came the food—make sure you bring a good appetite, as there are plenty of courses to get through. Here’s what we ordered:

Antipasti

A feast of lightly battered herbs and elderflower, crispy chickpea bites, creamed cod, mortadella, fresh bruschetta, and tangy pickled vegetables.

Bruschetta and pickled vegetables at U Giancu
Bruschetta and pickled vegetables at U Giancu

Primo

Two distinct pasta dishes, one with a fiery kick of chili, garlic, and rich olive oil.

Pasta with chili, garlic, and olive oil
Pasta with chili, garlic, and olive oil
Wide pasta with zucchini and a green herb sauce
Wide pasta with zucchini and a green herb sauce

Secondi

Succulent New Zealand lamb chops served pink on the bone, fall-off-the-bone chicken in a rich, savory sauce, delicate nettle and cheese ravioli, and tender asparagus topped with Parmesan and a perfectly poached egg.

Fall-off-the-bone chicken with olives and pine nuts
Fall-off-the-bone chicken with olives and pine nuts

Dolce

To finish, a dreamy selection of homemade gelato (almond, hazelnut, and chocolate) served with crisp artisanal biscuits to share.

We left with full bellies and big smiles. U Giancu is memorable, unique, and full of heart—a genuine must-visit if you ever find yourself in Rapallo. Book a table.