€€€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
€€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.
€€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…
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Paceville, Zest serves Japanese and Asian fusion cuisine. Reviews frequently praise food quality, highlighting sushi, shrimp tempura, and duck gyoza, with some noting generous portions. Service is generally professional and accommodating, such as assisting guests with gluten-free needs, though inconsistencies exist regarding meal pacing and occasional rudeness. The atmosphere is described as zen and tidy. While many find the experience valuable, some customers expressed dissatisfaction with limited wine options, delayed service during peak hours, and issues with promised discounts.
Suitable for travelers seeking a quiet ambiance and diverse Asian cuisine, but visiting during off-peak hours is advisable for better service.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Le Majoliche in Paceville offers Mediterranean and Sicilian cuisine. Many reviews praise the high food quality, friendly service, and cozy atmosphere, highlighting dishes like eggplant rolls, swordfish rolls, and seafood risotto. However, negative feedback focuses on value concerns, citing small portions, high costs, and billing errors for unconsumed items. Issues with slow meal pacing, noisy ambiance, and occasional service lapses, such as forgetting water, were also noted. While often recommended for its culinary excellence, experiences vary significantly regarding service consistency and cost-effectiveness.
Suitable for diners seeking authentic Mediterranean cuisine who can tolerate occasional service inconsistencies.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Gzira, The Seafood Market Grill is renowned for fresh seafood and classic cuisine, having been cited by the Michelin Guide. Reviews highlight high food quality, particularly regarding shellfish, langoustines, and daily specials, alongside professional and attentive service. The atmosphere is lively yet basic. Reservations are essential due to high demand. Negative feedback occasionally mentions inconsistent meal pacing, underwhelming non-seafood items like pasta, and discrepancies in wine service. A minority of reviewers noted issues with pets in the dining area and hygiene concerns. Overall, it offers a solid seafood experience with reliable quality, though guests should book in advance and remain aware of occasional service inconsistencies.
Suitable for seafood enthusiasts prioritizing freshness who can secure advance reservations.
€€€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.
€€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Paceville, Caviar & Bull holds an average rating of 4.8/5 based on 80 reviews. Guests frequently praise the high food quality and exceptional service, with staff members like Sabri, Angelina, and John commended for their professionalism and friendliness, some comparing the service to Michelin-starred establishments. The atmosphere is generally well-received, particularly the terrace views, though a minority noted excessive noise or pacing issues. Negative feedback highlights occasional tough steaks, perceived lack of etiquette by some staff, and rude behavior from management in isolated cases. While the majority report a magical dining experience, inconsistencies in service and food texture exist. It suits diners seeking premium cuisine and attentive service, provided they remain aware of potential variability in staff conduct.
Recommended for diners seeking high-quality cuisine and attentive service, with advance seating preferences advised.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 61 reviews
Bistro Boca in Ta' Xbiex specializes in contemporary French cuisine. Reviews frequently praise the high food quality, intimate Parisian-style atmosphere, and professional, attentive service. However, value is a mixed theme; some guests find the pricing high relative to the experience, while others appreciate the quality. Negative feedback highlights issues with meal pacing, occasional inconsistencies in dish preparation (such as dry pork or warm seafood), and perceived lack of interest from staff after billing. Despite isolated complaints about rude service or missing management, the overall sentiment remains positive, making it suitable for diners seeking authentic French dining, though consistency may vary.
Ideal for diners seeking authentic French ambiance and high-quality cuisine, with a suggestion to verify dish freshness due to occasional service inconsistencies.