€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Mdina, The Medina offers Mediterranean and traditional cuisine. Reviews highlight high food quality, friendly service, and a charming atmosphere, with standout dishes like Maltese sausage pasta, rabbit stew, and sea bass. However, some guests reported issues including slow pacing, lukewarm meals (e.g., undercooked ossobuco), poor meat preparation (fatty ribeye), and service lapses such as unwatered glasses or hygiene incidents. Despite these negatives, the restaurant maintains a 4.4/5 rating, suggesting consistent excellence when service details are managed properly.
Ideal for travelers seeking historic ambiance and authentic Mediterranean flavors in Mdina, though verifying menu availability and service attentiveness is advised.
€€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
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Mdina, Scala offers Mediterranean cuisine with high ratings (4.9/5 from 80 reviews). Guests frequently praise the food quality, attentive service, and stunning views from outdoor seating, describing the atmosphere as an oasis. Specific dishes like white lasagna and beef tartare are highlighted. However, some negative feedback cites meal pacing, occasional cold food, and perceived high value. While most experiences are positive, a few mention unfriendly service or cramped table arrangements. It is a refined dining option known for its setting and gourmet offerings.
Suitable for travelers seeking refined views and high-quality Mediterranean dining in Mdina.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Root 81, located atop Mdina's old town, offers Mediterranean cuisine with a cinematic outdoor ambiance. Reviews frequently praise Chef Robert Caesar’s beautifully presented dishes, highlighting the risotto nero di seppia and fresh fish. Service is generally described as warm and attentive, though some guests noted issues with meal pacing, lukewarm vegetables, and uninspired wine service. While most visitors rate the experience highly (4.8/5), a minority cited concerns over value for money and occasional noise. The restaurant excels in atmosphere and food quality, making it suitable for those seeking an elegant dining setting with visually striking presentations.
Suitable for diners prioritizing atmospheric elegance and visual presentation over consistent service pacing.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
The Fork and Cork, a Michelin-recognized Mediterranean restaurant in Mdina, boasts exceptional ratings. Food quality is a standout, with Chef Carl Zahra engaging directly with guests. Dishes like venison carpaccio and beef mains are highly praised for their perfection and balance. The ambiance features a characterful building with countryside views from the upper floor. Service is generally welcoming and friendly, though isolated reports mention minor errors like incorrect wine orders or pacing issues. While a few reviewers noted concerns regarding value and pricing, the majority find the experience worthwhile. It remains a top choice for those seeking high-quality cuisine and a relaxed dining atmosphere in Malta.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality Mediterranean cuisine, chef interaction, and a historic setting.
🕐 Mo,We 12:00-14:30,17:30-21:30; Th-Sa 17:30-21:30
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 58 reviews
Located in Rabat, The Golden Fork offers modern creative cuisine, holding a 4.7/5 rating on TripAdvisor from 58 reviews. Guests frequently praise the original, well-balanced flavors and thoughtful presentation, set within a warm atmosphere. Service is generally commended, though some note communication barriers or pacing issues. While many find the experience exceptional, a minority feel portions are small relative to price. Despite isolated complaints regarding temperature or specific dish execution, it remains a strong choice for those seeking innovative dining and refined ambiance.
Suitable for diners seeking modern creative cuisine and a refined experience.
€€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.8/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Rabat, Grotto Tavern offers a distinctive dining experience within a cave setting, praised for its cool, peaceful, and romantic atmosphere. Food quality is generally high, with emphasis on local ingredients and creative presentation, though some critics note issues with meat preparation and lack of spice. Service is typically professional and attentive, although occasional complaints cite slow pacing and overly verbose staff explanations. While a minority of reviewers find the value poor or the menu limited, the restaurant remains highly regarded for its seven-course tasting menus and exceptional wine pairings, making it suitable for those seeking an intimate and unique culinary journey.
Ideal for diners seeking a unique cave ambiance and fine tasting menus, though patience for service pacing is advised.
€€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.
€€€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