The Harbour Club
€€€Modern Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine
Housed in an 18C building near Gozo ferry terminal, this restaurant ranks among the island’s most atmospheric for many reasons. The indoor dining room occupies a historic former icehouse, while the alfresco terrace offers a breathtaking view of the Grand Harbour. The kitchen rises to the setting with a distinct Mediterranean spirit, expressed through modern and imaginative dishes. Each course is tied to a street in the city centre, and a small tile bearing its name, along with a brief historical anecdote, is brought to the table as the dish is served.
Guzé
€€Traditional Cuisine
Located in the heart of Valletta’s historic centre, this restaurant, unlike many of its counterparts, doesn’t offer outdoor seating, but features two warm, inviting dining rooms with old stone walls and a kitchen visible from the street. The focus is on Maltese surf and turf dishes that showcase fresh, seasonal, locally sourced ingredients. Guests can choose between two tasting menus, Land or Sea, or order from the à la carte lineup. The wine list includes Maltese, Italian and French labels, with some available by the glass. Be sure to book in advance.
La Pira
€€Regional Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine
In historic Valletta, among the major tourist attractions, La Pira rolls out authentic Maltese cuisine, packed in flavour and served in a simple and informal setting. Among the standout dishes are pulled rabbit rigatoni, house-made stuffed pasta, Maltese stuffed marrows, pan-fried octopus and aljotta, the island’s iconic fish soup.
AKI
€€japanese
The entrance to this sleek, stylish basement restaurant is next to the Embassy Hotel; once inside, order a cocktail from the bar that stretches along one side of the room. All the tables overlook the open kitchen, where the chefs artfully prepare an Asian-inspired, primarily Japanese score. We particularly enjoyed the local Maltese Prawn Tacos, showcasing top-quality seafood enhanced by punchy, well-balanced sides, and the Saikyo Miso Black Cod “AKI Way”, thoughtfully recommended by the spot-on staff.
Legligin
€€Regional Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine
Legligin means “a place to have a drink”, which fits this spot down to a T: brick walls, wine racks and wooden tables. If you’re lucky and aljotta is on the menu, don’t miss the chance to sample this traditional fish soup, while the rich, succulent linguine with local rabbit is equally delicious. Both dishes can also be ordered in advance. The first-class wine list focuses mainly, though not exclusively, on Maltese wines, with some very interesting vertical vintages from excellent wineries.
Bistro Boca
€€French, French Contemporary
With moorings just a few metres away, this bistro is of course popular with yachties, as well as to anyone seeking an authentic French dining experience with sea views. A Parisian-style décor sets the lively stage for a crisp, deftly crafted menu including moules frites, steak tartare, cassoulet de canard and the classic sole meunière in a festival of traditional flavours courtesy of premium ingredients. We recommend starting with a knockout cocktail - the bartender excels at timeless classics. Inspector’s tip: make the most of the small beach just below after lunch or before dinner.
59 Republic
€€€Classic Cuisine, International
You can’t get more central than Fifty-nine Republic, bang in St. George’s Square, facing the Grandmaster's Palace, with a terrace for alfresco dining in the warm season (which lasts almost all year in Malta). The handsome indoor dining room, dotted with pink details (the house signature colour), is reached down a short but steep flight of stairs. The cuisine embraces international flavours and showcases top-drawer ingredients like wagyu beef, gyoza-style ravioli stuffed in lobster and Scottish scallops. And when it comes to dessert, we wholeheartedly suggest what has become an iconic extravaga
Risette
€€€Modern Cuisine, Creative
Facing the Basilica of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, the restaurant’s modern, elegant decor provides the perfect foil to the refined score. At the helm, chef Steve Scicluna demonstrates his high-flying technique, clearly influenced by the French school. Some dishes (like rabbit) pay homage to Malta, or to Italy, with ravioli taking the spotlight, together with a subtle sprinkling of Japanese ingredients, creating a culinary reflection of the chef’s diverse past experiences, all presented with unfailing elegance.
Aaron´s Kitchen
€€Traditional Cuisine
Next to the picturesque Strait Street in the heart of Valletta’s historic centre, this popular hotspot offers a delightful mix of Maltese and Italian cuisines, including both surf and turf dishes. One of our favourites is Aaron’s Kitchen beef fillet wrapped in Parma ham with king prawns, brandy and bisque. All the desserts are made from scratch.
🕐 Mo-Sa 12:00-15:00; Su off; Mo-Th 18:30-22:00; Fr,Sa 18:30-22:30
Kaiseki
€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Asian Influences
If you find yourself on one of the Mediterranean’s most beautiful islands and craving Mediterranean–Asian fusion cuisine, head to Noel Azzopardi’s Kaiseki. This basement restaurant sports a cosy, welcoming vibe, and the chef-owner, working alongside youthful Mark Zammit, crafts intriguing dishes such as cauliflower and goat’s cheese risotto with crunchy sunflower kernels, Iberico pork with glazed, tender meat, Japanese fried rice with char-siu and fried egg, and excellent desserts like an exotic mille-feuille with yuzu and white chocolate. Last, but not least, the informal, relaxed vibe adds a
One80 St.Christopher Street
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
In the heart of historic Valletta, a vibrant Mediterranean culinary experience unfolds within a low-key, bistro chic setting at One80 St. Christopher Street. Chef Vella draws on his international expertise to craft a punchy menu that showcases the breadth of Mediterranean cuisine. The range is very diverse and includes a thoughtful selection for vegetarians. Notable house specialties include the Chateaubriand for two, and for seafood lovers, a daily fresh catch that varies depending on availability. The well-curated cellar reveals an international selection with a weakness for prestigious Ital
Terrone
€€mediterranean
Tucked away at the tip of the small town of Vittoriosa and abutting the walls of Fort St. Angelo, Maltese-Australian chef-owner Adrian Hili has been at the helm here for over ten years. His cooking celebrates Mediterranean, Italian and Maltese traditions: the sole, for instance, is perfectly baked in a wood-fired oven and served with Castelluccio lentils from Italy, jazzed up with samphire, and paired with a small pan of homemade fries. Due to ongoing restoration work, the entrance is currently to the rear of the building (not particularly attractive), but once inside the elegant decor and alf
The Seafood Market Grill
€€Seafood, Classic Cuisine
A simple establishment tucked away from the tourist bustle, where everything revolves around fish, as one might expect given its name. Right at the entrance of the restaurant, on the left, the day’s catch is displayed. You can choose from a range of raw seafood dishes, ceviches and a selection of oysters, caviar, shellfish and clams, along with Mediterranean fish that can be pan-cooked, grilled, or fried.
Chophouse
€€steak_house
This restaurant boasts one of the most spectacular views of Malta: we suggest booking a table on the terrace (enclosed and heated in winter), which commands a knockout panorama of Valletta by night. The kitchen rolls out a wide assortment of meat and fish, underscored by a distinct fondness for grilled recipes.
🕐 Mo-Sa 19:00-23:00; Su 12:00-15:00
Zest
€€Asian
Set in a chic hotel in the bustling St Julian’s district, enthusiasts of Asian cuisine will find plenty to explore in this modern and elegant restaurant. The extensive menu covers the classics of Far Eastern cuisine: from sushi and noodles to curry-based dishes, Peking duck and bao buns - you will be spoilt for choice…
Le Majoliche
€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Sicilian
Located at street level within a business centre, this authentic Italian trattoria, which sports a distinctly Sicilian vibe, serves classic, generous, colourful cuisine, supported by a professional and attentive front-of-house team. At the entrance, seafood lovers are greeted by a tempting display of the day’s fresh catch, while meat enthusiasts will be equally enchanted by the extensive Mediterranean à la carte menu, which stars house-made pasta among its many highlights. Popular at lunchtime as well; bookings recommended.
Anima
€€€Italian, Sicilian
At the highest point of the island, the 33rd floor features a glazed dining room with sweeping panoramic views and a cocktail bar, while the 34th floor is home to the rooftop terrace. The menu shines the spotlight on Italian fare, with a specific section for raw ingredients and sushi. Meat lovers shouldn’t miss the wagyu ragù pappardelle, while seafood fans shouldn’t miss the grilled calamari, packed in the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean. Definitely the place for a drink at sunset.
Caviar & Bull
€€€Beef
As the name suggests, the upmarket menu of this restaurant revolves around caviar and aged beef; the latter is displayed in a glass cabinet near the entrance. Although fish also features on the menu, we recommend the excellent beef tartare or Argentine ribs, grilled and served with roast potatoes and sautéed onions. The seafront location is delightful and includes a cocktail bar, where chef Gauci’s recipes are listed in a personalised book, alongside a selection of Cuban cigars. The swish, attentive service is fully equal to that of a private club.
Bahia
€€€Creative, Contemporary
Set within an intimate dining room on the first floor of the elegant Corinthia Palace Hotel, this restaurant – named after a local variety of orange – offers two tasting menus, “The Villages Journey” and “Plant-Based”, alongside an à la carte selection. There is also the “Inħalli f’idejk” (“I leave it in your hands”) menu, designed for guests who wish to be surprised and fully trust the chef's creativity. The culinary concept draws inspiration from Maltese culture, taking guests on a sensory journey through the island’s different villages, with each dish accompanied by a note indicating its sp
Terroir
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
Situated in a picturesque square with an old fountain, this 16C building boasts period brick walls and a rustic, romantic ambience – the cosy dining room is on the first floor and there is even a small table on the balcony (make sure you book this ahead). The cuisine focuses on local and Mediterranean ingredients, with highlights such as ricotta gnocchi with a Maltese sausage ragù, while the wine list stars a few international estates.
Tartarun
€€Seafood
This elegant restaurant by the harbour of a small fishing village has been run by the Schiavone family for over 10 years. Son James treats diners to a daily changing selection of simply cooked whole fish and other, more modern, imaginative seafood dishes. In addition to fishermen, they support the local baker and a hydroponic farmer who is just a few kilometres from the restaurant. Their 150+ wine bin is renowned locally.
Root 81
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
This pleasant restaurant rolls out Mediterranean-style fare, skilfully crafted by a talented chef with a focus on local ingredients. The outdoor alfresco area sports an attractive and relaxing vibe, without forgetting an excellent selection of wines and cocktails.
The Fork and Cork
€€mediterranean
Set within a historic stone building, this quiet, hospitable restaurant curates a delightful dining experience. Chef-patron Carl Zahra rolls out a contemporary and expertly crafted Mediterranean-inspired score, with a strong emphasis on high-quality local ingredients. The Inspector’s favourite: slow-cooked lamb shank with white beans, chorizo, Kalamata olive fricassée and braising lamb juices.
🕐 Mo,We 12:00-14:30,17:30-21:30; Th-Sa 17:30-21:30
Scala
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
Set in an enviable position at the entrance to Mdina, this restaurant stands out by its terrace with sweeping sea views and the rich, expressive Mediterranean cuisine of chef Sheldon, that has earned it a reputation as one of the island’s finest establishments. The staff is always at hand to help you choose between locally sourced fish and expertly prepared meats. Signature dishes include yakitori-style octopus and Rossini-style beef fillet. While in the area, make sure you visit the nearby historic attractions; we also recommend getting a taxi to Mdina, unless you are staying nearby, as parki
The Medina
€€Mediterranean Cuisine, Traditional Cuisine
After you pass the fortified walls, it is a pleasure to lose yourself in the narrow streets of Mdina, the perfectly preserved ancient Arab capital of Malta. The food pays homage to the island as a crossroads of culinary cultures with the most typical dishes of Malta and other countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, all within the setting of a charming historic building. If you are dining in company, we recommend the “casual bites” appetisers, which are perfect for sharing.
Giuseppi's
€€€Modern Cuisine, Mediterranean Cuisine
Housed within the attractive Salini Resort Hotel overlooking the bay of the same name, this exquisite restaurant uses top-quality ingredients to craft a Mediterranean-led score, although modern trends are starting to make a fleeting appearance in some recipes. The lunchtime lineup is slightly simpler than that served in the evening.
The Golden Fork
€€Modern Cuisine, Creative
In the historic centre of Rabat, you can dine in the covered inner courtyard or in the rooms on the upper floor of a period building, thus experiencing all the charm of this extraordinary district of Malta, just a stone’s throw from Mdina. While founded on local traditions, the cuisine achieves results that can be highly creative and elaborate.
Grotto Tavern
€€€tea, sandwich, coffee_shop
This cosy, stylish tavern, in the heart of the charming town of Rabat and just a short walk from the St. Paul’s Catacombs, is both romantic and mysterious. A few steps lead down from the street to the main dining areas: the colourful Garden Dining Room, a riot of lush ornamental plants, and The Cave, carved out of the rock, which offers its own tasting menu, the ‘Grotto Experience’, alongside the à la carte and tasting menus available in the main dining room. The repertory is rooted in local produce and traditions, which are reinterpreted in a modern, creative vein.
LOA
€€South American, Fusion
LOA’s extensive terrace, bathed in sunshine, sets the scene for a truly memorable dining experience in a casual, stylish vibe against a panorama of drop-dead views. The high-flying lineup stars a vibrant journey into South American fusion cuisine that is expressive, creative and packed in personality. The menu celebrates the rich diversity of this culinary universe, featuring dishes inspired by the traditions of Argentina, Chile, Peru, Mexico and beyond. To complete the experience, LOA offers an excellent selection of pre-dinner cocktails, expertly crafted and perfect for easing into the eveni
Rebekah's
€€€Modern Cuisine
Set in a stylish, historic edifice, nearly 300 years old, the interior of this restaurant is the epitome of refined sophistication. Chef-owner Andrew Vella concocts a Mediterranean score with a creative and personal touch. During the summer, guests can dine alfresco in the quiet, refreshing sanctuary of an inner courtyard.
Tmun
€€Seafood
This restaurant serves delicious Mediterranean food which is often inspired by fish caught fresh on the day. The vibe is informal with friendly, welcoming staff and there’s an attractive sunny terrace for alfresco summer dining.
Level Nine at The Grand
€€€Contemporary, Mediterranean Cuisine
In 2025, George Attard returned to his native island of Gozo, bringing with him a wealth of experience gleaned in prestigious, including Michelin-starred, kitchens. Perched on the top floor of the Grand Hotel Gozo, the restaurant overlooks the lively port of Mgarr. Partially visible from the contemporary dining room and in full view from the terrace, the view of the Mediterranean is truly captivating. Chef Attard crafts a distinctly modern take on Mediterranean cuisine, courtesy of dishes whose flavours are as delicate as their plating is exquisite, reflecting his solid technical foundation. H
Osteria Scottadito
€€Italian
Scottadito is an osteria that champions Italian food culture without compromise: starters such as sardoncini scottadito, crumbed and oven-baked, and classic pasta dishes like carbonara rub shoulders with more regional specialities, including gnocchi with rabbit ragù, all designed to delight. The setting is simple and informal, lifted by the owner’s warmth and his talent for offering spot-on recommendations.
Al Sale
€€Meats and Seafood
This outwardly inconspicuous restaurant in the heart of Xaghra actually extends over two floors and boasts a small terrace out front. The chef-owner, who hails from Toronto, opened his independent business here in the middle of the pandemic, demonstrating his steadfast commitment and drive! If you love simple cuisine based on fresh produce, especially meat and seafood, try the prawn & scallop-filled ravioli with prawn bisque, or the delicious rack of veal with salsa verde. Everything is uncomplicated, ingredient-led and freshly prepared. An international wine list and friendly, attentive yet u
Ta' Frenċ
€€Mediterranean Cuisine
Set in a lovely old farmhouse with breathtaking views of the Xaghra countryside, this restaurant offers a refined and relaxing ambience. The talented chef crafts a unique and personalised score, blending Mediterranean and creative flavours. During the summer, be sure to book a table on the delightful garden terrace. The restaurant also boasts an extensive wine cellar with over 700 premium labels.