Last Updated: January 3, 2024
Malta is a small island nation that is known for its stunning beaches, rich history, and vibrant culture. But what you may not know, is that Malta is also a food lover’s paradise, with a diverse range of restaurants offering both traditional Maltese cuisine and international dishes. From fresh seafood to mouth-watering pastries, Malta has something to offer for every palate.
So, whether you’re a foodie looking to explore the local cuisine or just someone looking for some good eats on your next trip to Malta, join me as I explore the best restaurants on the island!
14 Best Restaurants in Malta You Have to Try
1. Wigi’s Kitchen, St. Julian’s
Wigi’s Kitchen is a must-visit restaurant for anyone traveling to Malta. We often choose this place either for celebrating special occasions or simply indulging in a nice dinner as a treat. Located in the charming town of St. Julian’s, this hidden gem offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere along with a delectable menu of Mediterranean and Maltese cuisine. From the fresh seafood to the exceptional meat selection, every item on the menu is crafted with care and attention to detail. All the dishes are expertly prepared and burst with flavor. The portion sizes are generous and the prices are reasonable too, making this a great value for the quality of the food. Wigi’s Kitchen is a great option for a memorable meal in St. Julian’s. Make sure to choose a table by the window to enjoy the beautiful sea view.
2. Tal Petut, Birgu
Tal Petut in Birgu, Malta is a true gem of a restaurant that should not be missed. We had heard so much about this place and we were somewhat reluctant at first, but this place exceeded our expectations. The charming and rustic atmosphere immediately sets the stage for an unforgettable dining experience. But what really stands out is the food. The menu offers a range of dishes that showcase the best of Maltese cuisine, with fresh ingredients and traditional recipes that have been passed down through generations. The menu varies from time to time and each dish is cooked to perfection. The staff is one of the friendliest we’ve ever encountered, and the service is impeccable. To top it off, the prices are very reasonable, making this a great value for the quality of the food and service.
Tal Petut is without a doubt one of the best restaurants in Malta for anyone looking for an authentic and delicious taste of the island. We highly suggest that you make a reservation in advance because this place tends to fill up quickly, particularly on Fridays and Saturdays.
3. Grotto Tavern, Rabat
The Grotto Tavern offers a unique and unforgettable dining experience. This one-of-a-kind restaurant is located in an ancient cave, providing a truly atmospheric setting unlike anything else. The menu offers a range of Maltese and Mediterranean dishes that are all expertly prepared and packed with delectable flavors. The seafood dishes are particularly outstanding, with fresh ingredients and imaginative preparation that showcases the best of local cuisine. The staff is friendly and knowledgeable, and the service is consistently top-notch. We celebrated Greg’s birthday a couple of years ago here and we can’t recommend this place enough!
4. Legligin Wine Bar, Valletta
What we love most about Legligin Wine Bar in Valletta is the cozy interior and warm ambiance that immediately make you feel at home. But what really sets this restaurant apart is the food and drink. The menu offers a range of Mediterranean and Maltese-inspired dishes that are all expertly prepared and beautifully presented. The wine list is also exceptional, featuring a variety of local and international wines that pair perfectly with the food. The staff is very attentive, and their passion for food and wine is evident in every dish and recommendation.
While the prices may be a bit higher than some other restaurants in Valletta, the quality of the food and the exceptional wines make it well worth it. Legligin Wine Bar is one of those restaurants in Malta that don’t offer an a la carte menu, instead, you can opt for the lunch or dinner tasting menu. We recommend this as one of the top restaurants in Malta for anyone looking for a romantic dining experience.
5. Rubino, Valletta
Rubino in Valletta, Malta is a classic restaurant that is not to be missed. The interior is elegant and inviting, with a charming old-world ambiance that immediately transports you to another time. The menu offers a range of traditional Maltese dishes that are prepared with care and exceptional attention to detail. The rabbit stew, in particular, is a standout dish that is cooked to perfection and will get your taste buds tingling!
At Rubino, you are guaranteed a delightful dining experience, thanks to the attentive and cordial staff who are always eager to offer recommendations and cater to your needs. Although the prices at Rubino are comparatively higher than those of other restaurants in Valletta, the exceptional service and quality of food justify the cost, making it a worthwhile dining destination. Note that the restaurant is closed on Sundays and on Mondays is only open for lunch.
6. De Mondion, Mdina
Welcome to one of Malta’s Michelin Star Restaurants. De Mondion is located within the 17th-century walls of the iconic The Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux in Mdina. The elegant and sophisticated interior provides a perfect backdrop for outstanding food, which is a masterful blend of Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine. Each dish is expertly prepared and presented, showcasing the finest ingredients and the chef’s creativity. The wine list is also exceptional, featuring a range of local and international wines that perfectly complement the menu. The service is impeccable, and the staff’s mission is to ensure that every guest has a memorable dining experience. The prices are exactly as you’d expect from a Michelin Star Restaurant. But the quality of the food, the stunning location, and the exceptional service make De Mondion one of the best restaurants in Malta.
7. The Golden Fork, Rabat
Speaking of Michelin Star Restaurants, we can’t help but include in this list of the “Best Restaurants in Malta” The Golden Fork in Rabat. This charming restaurant is recommended by Michelin for its creative dishes and unique presentation. The cozy and intimate atmosphere immediately creates a sense of warmth and relaxation. We loved each and every dish we tried here but the charcoal octopus was particularly noteworthy. The staff is friendly and welcoming, ensuring that each guest has a comfortable and enjoyable dining experience. The prices are reasonable too, especially for a restaurant of this caliber. We highly recommend this restaurant in Malta as one of the best options for a fine dining experience.
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8. Susurrus Restaurant, St. Julian’s
Susurrus Restaurant is part of Corinthia St. George’s Bay Hotel in St. Julian’s, Malta. The restaurant’s charming ambiance immediately creates a sense of warmth and sophistication. With flavors inspired by Asia and South America, the menu is sure to impress. You’ll find the exceptional dishes so tempting that you’ll want to come back for more. With its friendly and attentive staff, Susurrus Restaurant guarantees excellent service and aims to create a memorable dining experience. Though the prices may be on the higher end, the exceptional quality of the food and service make it an ideal choice for special occasions or romantic evenings. While the food is the main reason you should visit, don’t miss out on the amazing cocktails during your visit. Give it a try, you sure won’t regret it!
9. Under Grain, Valletta
It may surprise you that despite being a small island, Malta is home to several Michelin-starred restaurants, including Under Grain. This wonderful restaurant is a hidden gem, located in Valletta that promises an unforgettable dining experience. The restaurant is located beneath the 16th-century palazzo and boasts stunning, dimly-lit interiors that create a cozy and intimate atmosphere. The menu features a variety of Mediterranean and Maltese-inspired dishes, expertly prepared and creatively presented with a contemporary twist. The tasting menu is a standout, offering a multi-course experience that showcases the restaurant’s culinary expertise. The service is impeccable, with a wonderful staff who provides excellent recommendations and cater to your needs. Under Grain is quite pricey but we can’t think of a better restaurant in Malta to spoil a loved one with a memorable dining experience.
10. Palazzo Preca, Valletta
We recently had the pleasure of dining at Palazzo Preca restaurant in Valletta, and we had an amazing time. The ambiance of the restaurant was inviting and intimate, with warm lighting and beautiful decor.
The menu featured traditional Maltese dishes with a modern twist, using fresh and locally-sourced ingredients. It is also worth noting that the prices were quite reasonable when compared to other restaurants of similar quality in Malta. We recommend that you opt for the seafood; you won’t be disappointed. The seafood risotto was a standout dish for me, as it was cooked to perfection. Do not hesitate to order it!
The staff at Palazzo Preca were knowledgeable and attentive, and their passion for the food and wine they serve was evident. They recommended a perfect wine pairing for our meal and made us feel truly welcomed.
Even though we came here for dinner, it is also an excellent option for lunch.
11. Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro, Salini
Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro in Salini is an absolute gem that every foodie and traveler must visit! This cozy and charming restaurant is situated in a stunning location, overlooking the beautiful Salini Bay, providing the perfect backdrop for a memorable dining experience.
The menu is packed with delicious and authentic Mediterranean dishes, with fresh ingredients sourced locally, and prepared with a genuine passion for cooking. From divine seafood to mouth-watering pasta, each dish is expertly crafted and bursting with flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
The staff at Giuseppi’s are incredibly friendly and welcoming, making you feel right at home as soon as you step through the door. Their attention to detail and commitment to excellent service ensures that your dining experience is nothing short of exceptional.
Whether you’re visiting Salini for the first time or you’re a regular visitor, Giuseppi’s Bar & Bistro is a must-visit destination. With its stunning location, delicious food, and warm hospitality, it’s the perfect place to unwind, relax, and enjoy a truly memorable dining experience.
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12. ION The Harbour, Valletta
ION The Harbour restaurant in Valletta is a culinary destination that simply cannot be missed. The restaurant’s stunning location offers breathtaking views over the Valletta waterfront.
From fresh seafood to succulent meat dishes, the menu at ION The Harbour offers something for every palate.
The restaurant’s atmosphere is sophisticated yet relaxed, making it the perfect place to enjoy a romantic dinner or a meal with friends. The service is exceptional, with knowledgeable, attentive staff who make you feel well taken care of.
The reasons that make this one of the best restaurants in Malta are its stunning location, delicious cuisine, and excellent service. ION The Harbour restaurant is a true gem in the heart of Valletta.
13. Noni, Valletta
Every food lover must visit Noni restaurant in Valletta, which is a true culinary gem. The menu at Noni features dishes that are created by using the freshest ingredients and they’re both innovative and delicious. From fresh seafood to succulent meats, the menu caters to every taste and preference.
The combination of the cozy and elegant atmosphere at the restaurant enhances the overall dining experience. Additionally, the staff is both friendly and attentive, always ready to offer recommendations. The combination of the above ensures that your dining experience is truly exceptional.
If you have a passion for food and seek an unforgettable dining experience, Noni restaurant is a destination that cannot be missed. Featuring an innovative menu, a cozy ambiance, and exceptional service, this restaurant in Malta provides the perfect setting to indulge in the flavors of the island with elegance.
14. Commando, Mellieha
Located in a beautifully restored building that is over 300 years old, Commando takes pride in its culinary legacy, which dates back to the wartime 1930s. This casual yet elegant restaurant provides the perfect ambiance for a relaxed evening out, whether it’s with friends or a special someone.
The menu at Commando restaurant is a seafood lover’s dream, with an impressive selection of fresh seafood dishes prepared with a Mediterranean twist. From mouth-watering seafood platters to succulent grilled fish (if they have the seabass, we urge you to go for it!), every dish is expertly crafted and bursting with flavor.
Without a doubt, Commando is one of our top favorite places to dine and, to be honest, one of the best restaurants in Malta, which is why this list would not be complete without it.
The Top 14 Best Restaurants in Malta – Final Thoughts
Malta is a foodie’s paradise, with a rich culinary tradition that blends influences from its Mediterranean location and its history. Whether you’re looking for traditional Maltese cuisine or international flavors, the island has something for every palate. From cozy and intimate spots to luxurious fine dining experiences, the top 14 best restaurants in Malta are a must-visit for anyone looking to indulge in the island’s rich culinary culture. So why wait? Start planning your foodie adventure in Malta today and prepare to be blown away by the amazing dining experiences that await you!
