€€€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
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.2/5 · 80 reviews
Located in historic Valletta, Aaron's Kitchen offers a cozy bistro atmosphere with Mediterranean elegance. Food quality receives mixed reviews; while some praise the tender suckling pig, juicy lobster, and well-sized steaks, others report issues like rubbery mussels, dry cakes, or cold, charred meat. Service is generally welcoming but can be slow. Ambiance is highlighted as elegant, though worn menus have drawn criticism. Value perceptions vary, with some finding it fair for the local context, while others question its Michelin recommendation due to inconsistent execution. It suits couples and groups seeking traditional cuisine, provided expectations regarding consistency are managed.
Suitable for travelers seeking traditional Maltese flavors who can tolerate service variability.
🕐 Mo-Sa 12:00-15:00; Su off; Mo-Th 18:30-22:00; Fr,Sa 18:30-22:30
€€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
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
One80 on St. Christopher Street, Valletta, holds a 4.9/5 average from 80 reviews. Food quality, service, and atmosphere are standout features. Diners praise the delicious, generously portioned, and beautifully presented dishes, including excellent burgers and tasting menus. Staff members like Harshit, Maricel, and Gary receive specific commendations for their kindness and professionalism. The venue offers a calm, elegantly decorated environment with an impressive wine list. While a few reviews mention pacing issues or billing discrepancies, the overwhelming consensus highlights high-quality Mediterranean cuisine and outstanding hospitality, making it a reliable choice for travelers.
Ideal for travelers seeking high-quality dining and an elegant atmosphere.
€€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
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Valletta, Kaiseki offers Mediterranean cuisine with Asian influences. Reviews highlight fresh, well-presented food with generous portions, often allowing mains to serve as starters. Service is generally praised as friendly and efficient, though some note slow pacing or initial delays. The ambiance features a charming, hidden entrance and pleasant outdoor seating with live music, but indoor noise levels can be high, and outdoor dining may be uncomfortable in cool weather. Value perceptions vary; while many find the experience worthwhile, others feel it does not justify the price or Michelin expectations.
Suitable for travelers seeking unique fusion flavors and relaxed outdoor dining, with advance seating confirmation recommended.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
AKI in Valletta is highly rated for its exceptional Japanese cuisine and attentive service. Guests frequently praise the outstanding food quality, excellent cocktails, and classy, romantic atmosphere, with some noting live cooking or DJ sets. Staff members such as Tom, Meryem, Alan, and Asanka receive specific commendations for their hospitality. However, a minority of reviews highlight issues with meal pacing, the underground location, and background music that some find unsuitable for dinner. While generally considered worth the visit, some note that wine pricing may not offer strong value. It suits diners seeking high-quality sushi and a sophisticated environment.
Ideal for diners seeking high-quality Japanese cuisine and a sophisticated atmosphere, though guests should consider their preference for the underground setting and background music.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.6/5 · 80 reviews
Located in central Valletta near St. John's Co-Cathedral, La Pira specializes in traditional Maltese cuisine. Food quality receives mixed reviews; while some praise the fresh rabbit, octopus, and stuffed zucchini, others report issues like undercooked vegetables or excessive spiciness. Service is inconsistent, ranging from efficient and friendly to unhelpful towards families with children. The ambiance varies significantly; outdoor seating can be noisy, cramped, and sheltered by tents rather than offering an open-air experience. Although the location is convenient and the menu focuses on local specialties like rabbit stew and fish soup, the overall dining experience lacks consistency across different visits.
Suitable for travelers seeking authentic Maltese traditional dishes like rabbit stew who are tolerant of potential noise and inconsistent service.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Located in Valletta, Legligin specializes in Mediterranean and regional cuisine through a blind tasting menu of 5 or 7 courses. Dishes are described as hearty, home-style, and meat-heavy, with some guests finding portions excessive while others noted blandness. Service is professional but polarizing; some praise its warmth and dietary accommodation, while others find it cold or dismissive. The atmosphere is traditional, intimate, and detailed. Value perceptions vary significantly. While some appreciate the reasonable food cost, others criticize high wine pairing prices and inconsistent beverage quality, suggesting the experience depends heavily on individual expectations regarding portion size and service style.
Suitable for diners seeking traditional, hearty home-style meals who are comfortable with fixed menus and less concerned about beverage costs.
€€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.9/5 · 80 reviews
Risette in Valletta offers modern creative cuisine, generally praised for high food quality, exquisite presentation, and unique flavors, with some comparing it to Michelin standards. Service is frequently commended for being attentive and professional, with specific mentions of excellent sommeliers. The atmosphere provides a calm retreat from the busy streets. While most reviews are positive, minor criticisms include inconsistent meal pacing and heavy portions. Value perceptions vary; some find it worthwhile, while others question the cost relative to the experience. Overall, it is a highly regarded destination for fine dining enthusiasts seeking a sophisticated culinary experience in Malta.
Suitable for diners seeking high-quality modern creative cuisine and an elegant atmosphere.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.7/5 · 80 reviews
Guzé in Valletta offers traditional Maltese cuisine within a historic, palace-like setting. Reviews frequently praise the warm service, elegant atmosphere, and high-quality dishes such as sweet potato soup and fish fillets. However, some guests note issues with excessive salting, particularly in vegetables, inconsistent meal pacing, and occasional texture problems with items like octopus. While a few reviewers consider the prices high relative to portion sizes or flavor intensity, many find the experience worthwhile. The restaurant maintains a strong reputation for its professional management and consistent ambiance, though diners should be aware of potential variability in specific dish preparations.
Suitable for diners seeking traditional Maltese flavors and a historic ambiance; reservations are recommended.
€€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.5/5 · 80 reviews
The Harbour Club in Valletta offers modern Mediterranean cuisine, with many guests praising the exceptional food quality and excellent wine pairings, particularly the tasting menus. The venue boasts stunning views of the Grand Harbour and the Three Cities, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere ideal for celebrations or relaxed evening drinks. However, service consistency is a notable concern. While some experiences are attentive, others report chaotic pacing, unprofessionalism, and slow responses. Additional criticisms include uncomfortable seating and inadequate handling of allergies. Despite these operational inconsistencies, the restaurant remains popular for its scenic beauty and culinary excellence. Advance booking is recommended due to high demand.
Suitable for diners prioritizing scenery and cuisine who can tolerate inconsistent service.
€€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.
TripAdvisor review sample · 4.4/5 · 80 reviews
Chophouse in Valletta is noted for its stunning views and steak offerings. Reviews frequently praise food quality, professional service, and a calm atmosphere, with the tasting menu and Sunday family set receiving positive mentions. However, value is a common concern, with some guests finding portions small relative to the cost. Negative feedback highlights issues such as premature cutlery removal, slow wine service, excessive noise, and inconsistent food taste. While infrastructure and ambiance are generally excellent, service reliability varies. It suits travelers prioritizing scenic dining and formal experiences, though expectations regarding portion size and price should be managed.
Suitable for travelers prioritizing scenic views and formal dining; confirm booking details and manage portion expectations.
🕐 Mo-Sa 19:00-23:00; Su 12:00-15:00
€€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
TripAdvisor review sample · 3.9/5 · 80 reviews
Terrone is situated within Fort St. Angelo in Vittoriosa, offering stunning harbor and Valletta views. Guests frequently praise the high-quality Mediterranean cuisine, particularly seafood and wood-fired dishes, alongside a romantic atmosphere and attentive service. However, negative feedback highlights inconsistent service speeds, occasional undercooked items, and a chef perceived as inflexible regarding menu changes. Value is a mixed point; while some find the experience justified, others consider the prices excessively high for standard offerings. The restaurant enforces a strict reservation policy requiring full credit card details. Overall, it is a visually impressive venue with excellent food potential, though diners should anticipate possible service delays and premium pricing.
Ideal for travelers seeking romantic sea views and high-quality Mediterranean cuisine who are less sensitive to price.
€€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.
€€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.
€€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.
€€€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.