Malta is the greenest country in Europe this winter, with pleasant weather and English widely spoken. It is small, making it easy to explore and see everything even in a short visit. Prices are friendly, and there are direct flights at modest rates. Discover your next destination for a short getaway that offers a taste of Europe within a three-hour flight. Malta is emerging as a worthy alternative to nearby Mediterranean destinations.
Before the holidays, I visited Malta for a work event and was captivated by its charm. On a daily basis, I stick to healthy eating, but Malta convinced me to loosen up. I added a few days of private vacation to wander the island, shop, eat, and document everything. Everything to return and share the Malta you haven’t known. Malta for pleasure seekers.
So, what do you know about Malta beyond its historic sites, squares, and palaces? Its picturesque streets and blue sea views from every corner, Malta is becoming an entertainment destination not to be ignored. A place where you can enjoy shopping, dining, and leisure at reasonable prices. Also, how can you not fall in love with a country whose name in the local accent sounds like a kiss?
Food
The local cuisine has been influenced primarily by proximity to Italy, especially Sicily, as well as many conquerors who left their mark. Today, Maltese cuisine, very similar to Sicilian cuisine, shows French, Arabic, and British influences. The United Kingdom was the last colonizer, and until about twenty years ago, British cuisine dominated the island, with most restaurants serving primarily fish and chips. The independence of this small country, home to just over 600,000 people, and major labor migration due to favorable tax laws, brought a new spirit to Malta. International cuisines and rising standards have marked mainly the last decade. Malta is neither France nor Italy and does not have the same rich culinary heritage. However, its fascinating culinary tradition, the blend of different cuisines, abundant fish offerings, and a new wave of young chefs put Malta on the regional foodie map.
Most restaurants in Malta lean toward Italian cuisine. For newcomers, many may seem ordinary. However, with careful choice, you will discover island gems worth visiting. After a week of tasting, here is the best Malta has to offer. Note that Malta is a small island; restaurants are spread across areas, usually no more than a fifteen-minute drive apart. The local taxi app Bolt can quickly take you from place to place at half the price of official taxis.
Seafood Restaurant-The Seafood Market Grill
A new restaurant opened during the pandemic. The owner is a fisherman with a long-standing fish shop supplying top-quality local and imported seafood to high-end restaurants. The display showcases the day’s selection, allowing you to choose from impressive seafood platters with lobsters, crabs, and oysters from around the world. The seafood here is considered the best in Malta. Nearby, a famous Sicilian pastry shop offers dessert.
Steakhouse – Sciacca Grill
Located in the historic and picturesque area of Valletta, this is considered the best steakhouse in Malta. There is no set menu; diners select premium cuts from the display and choose the cooking style. Premium cuts come from around the globe, and the wine selection is impressive. Meat lovers should not miss this experience.
Sicilian Restaurant – Le Mojoliche St. Julians
A long-standing family restaurant serving authentic Sicilian dishes with a focus on fresh fish. The food is joyful, served on traditional painted plates. The pride of the place is the fish of the day, baked in a salt crust, preserving juiciness and enhancing flavors. Swordfish and the excellent Caponata salad are not to be missed. Cannoli here are among the best in the city, served with pistachio and ricotta cream.
Maltese Farm-to-Table – Diar Il Bniet
The island’s first and perhaps only farm-to-table restaurant, featuring a European old-new concept. The restaurant grows its own vegetables and olives for onsite olive oil production. Nearby, the family farm produces wine. Recipes are authentic, passed down through generations. Try the famous Maltese appetizer plate and traditional desserts, with products available to take home.
Breakfast – Kingsway
Malta is rich in bakeries and cafes offering excellent Italian coffee and pastries. For a more elaborate breakfast, this cafe on the main street of Valletta offers classic timeless dishes from poached eggs to brioche.
Chef’s Kitchen – The Golden Fork
A modern restaurant offering contemporary local cuisine inspired by global trends. In a historic stone house, diners enjoy a meticulous yet exciting dining experience. Creative plating, flambéed dishes, and inventive sauces highlight the young chef’s innovative approach. Meat dishes and desserts are highly recommended.
Street Food – Pastizzi
Pastizzi, a national street food, is a type of pastry served hot with ricotta or pea filling. Many pastizzerias exist across the island. Recommended stalls in Valletta include Sphinx Pastizzeria and Malta Pastizzi.
Pizza
Italians heavily influence Maltese daily cuisine. Locals mainly eat pizza and pasta, though rabbit and snails are considered national dishes. Notable pizzerias include Casa Soto and Margo’s, loved by locals for authentic pizza without frills.
Confectioneries
Hidden in shopping areas, small pastry shops offer some of the best cannoli and Sicilian sweets on the island. Delizie Siciliane specializes in traditional desserts, while Bella Sicilia offers colorful South Italian pastries. Caffe Cordina is known for rare marzipan treats, and Dolceria Clyde provides local festive sweets, including soft ring cookies with almond paste.
Delivery
For those who prefer staying in after a day of sightseeing, Bolt Food delivers quickly, usually for a minimal fee.
Shopping
Malta is excellent for shopping, with international and European brands at lower prices than other regions. Street shops in Valletta and Sliema offer unique local and European fashion. Large malls exist but are less recommended.
Casinos
Casinos are legal in Malta, offering a small but pleasant experience. Dragonara is the largest, providing free drink, small starting funds, and a range of games.
Practical Information
Bolt is the most common taxi app, providing convenient, cheaper transport than official taxis. Malta drives on the left due to British influence. Many restaurants open only for meal hours, and shops typically operate from ten to seven (six on Sundays).