Rapallo, Italy
An expert assessment built on data, context and gastronomic judgement.
Bakery Tossini 2 has earned a devoted following among locals and visitors alike for turning out some of Rapallo's most celebrated focaccia, from the classic focaccia liscia to rich variations topped with caramelized onions, Recco-style crescenza, pesto, olives, and tomatoes. Open since 2010 along Corso Italia, this lively bakery-bar delivers the full Ligurian morning ritual: fresh-baked bread, flaky croissants, and espresso pulled quickly and confidently by a brigade that knows how to handle the morning rush. It's the sort of place where regulars grab their daily focaccia by the number, students fuel up between classes, and travelers discover what authentic Ligurian baking tastes like beyond the tourist traps.
Arrive before 10 AM to catch the focaccia at its absolute peak—still warm from the oven, with that perfect balance of crisp bottom and tender interior that fades as the day wears on.
Four dimensions, each assessed independently against the same criteria everywhere we rate.
The focaccia is the undisputed star here—golden, tender, and properly salted, with a texture that balances crisp exterior and soft, olive oil-drenched crumb. The onion focaccia and pesto version with ricotta have built particularly strong reputations, while the focaccia di Recco—that ultra-thin, cheese-filled marvel—shows proper respect for tradition. Beyond the savory lineup, the house-made pastries, apricot-filled bomboloni, and maritozzi demonstrate solid technique, though the sweet side doesn't quite command the same reverence as the bread program.
Expect a bustling, high-energy bakery atmosphere where the morning crowd moves with purpose and the ticket system keeps things flowing even when lines stretch out the door. The space offers indoor seating and outdoor tables for those who want to linger over cappuccino and cornetti, though most locals treat it as a grab-and-go operation. It's authentically Ligurian in pace and personality—busy, efficient, and unapologetically focused on getting excellent product into your hands without fuss.
The counter team works with impressive speed and rhythm, calling numbers efficiently and handling the constant flow of orders without losing composure. Staff members are patient and helpful, particularly with visitors navigating the focaccia varieties for the first time, and there's usually someone who can bridge the language gap. Service is friendly without being chatty—this is a working bakery, not a leisurely café, and the brigade keeps the energy professional and the turnover brisk.
The classic Italian bakery-bar setup features display cases filled with golden focaccia, pastries, and savory baked goods, polished counters, and the kind of elegant, functional design you'd expect in a proper Milanese pasticceria. Located steps from the bus and train stations on Corso Italia, it's ideally positioned for travelers and locals alike, with clean, well-maintained interiors and a layout designed for high-volume service. The outdoor seating offers a pleasant spot to watch Rapallo's morning rhythm unfold over espresso and warm bread.
These four dimensions are a handful of the attributes we review. The Insider Rating also draws on research the compass does not display — among them the wine programme, the size and quality of the cellar, the location, and how long the house has operated. It is not an average of the scores above.
C.so Italia, 42, 16035 Rapallo GE, Italy
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