Cultural Cuisine: The Best Restaurants in Malta.
Malta is a rich and vibrant country with stunning landscapes, refreshing waters, and food you absolutely need to try at least once in your life. While you may already know about popular hotspots for food tourism like Italy’s Pizzafest or Japan’s Taste of Tokyo, you may not be familiar with the gems you can discover on the small island in the Mediterranean.
With plenty of celebrated dishes and the likes of Marvin Gauci and Edward Diacono practicing their culinary craft in Malta, you know there is a symphony of flavors and delights waiting for you. If you’re going to bask in the culture, then make sure you traverse the local cuisine by way of the best Michelin-starred restaurants across the island.
Noni
211 Republic Street, Valletta
Taking a culinary tour of Malta should include well-rounded, traditionally inspired yet unique spaces like Noni. Tucked away in an underground cellar converted to a restaurant seeped in ambiance, Noni takes traditional Maltese delights and adds a French spin to them. Dishes here go beyond simplistic presentation, as every bite is meant to create an experience.
The refined space is led by award-winning chef Jonathan Brincat, popularly known as Noni. His care toward the restaurant that carries his name is apparent in every part of the space, from the attentive staff to the 30-day aged beef sirloin. If you prefer private dining, Noni himself will create a bespoke seasonal menu for you.
Fernandõ Gastrotheque
27 Triq Tigne, Tas-Sliema
If you’re up for a food-and-wine experience, then FernandõGastrotheque is the spot to be. Despite being a relatively small space, the environment is perfect for a night exploring a variety of vino and sustainably sourced dishes. All the ingredients used are fresh and come straight from local producers.
Studies from the USDA show that eating locally is not just about strengthening communities but also leads to healthier and more nutritious dishes that are better for the environment. It’s not a hard bargain, either, considering how grand the gastronomic journey offered by chef Laszlo Sragli and his team happens to be.
Bahia
Corinthia Palace Hotel, De Paule Avenue, San Anton, Balzan
Who says Michelin-star dining has to be egregious and explosive? Bahia embraces the slow and relaxed vibe of Malta and exudes this air of ease while offering fine dining. The menu rotates, so you won’t find yourself getting bored when you inevitably return for another taste of the scrumptious selection.
If you’re feeling adventurous, Bahia offers three different tasting menus that represent the past, present, or future. Every dish is presented in a creative yet understated way, with the flavors of fish, meat, and plant-based courses taking center stage and sticking with you even after you’ve left the gorgeous restaurant. Whether you want something hearty or fresh, you’ll find what your palate yearns for.
Under Grain
167 Merchants Street, Valletta
If you want the joy of trying something new while still hitting the comfort of American favorites like wings, beef, and hummus, then Under Grain may call out to you like a siren. It is distinctly a fine dining restaurant but serves a diverse and refined menu that doesn’t feel intimidatingly different. Premium ingredients and Maltese classics are expertly crafted in a way that hits the spot while still feeling homey.
Think elevated comfort food. Under Grain offers chocolate mousse cake but uses Valrhona dark chocolate. Chef Victor Borg can happily serve you USDA beef but slow-cooks the sirloin and nestles it in asparagus tempura, black truffle puree, and tarragon. It’s truly a commiseration of sophistication and relaxation.
ION – The Harbour
11 St. Barbara Bastion, Il-Belt Valletta
If you’ve heard of farm-to-table, ION pretty much gives you sea-to-table dining. This is the place to visit if you’re longing for the best seafood in the area. With a gorgeous view of the surrounding waters and the breeze gently caressing diners, ION is a spectacular space. It doesn’t hurt that its menu also promises fresh ingredients put together in a surprising yet satisfying way.
Founded by culinary star chef Simon Rogan, you really can’t expect anything less. Each ingredient in the ever-changing menu feels purposeful, with a real contribution to what makes every dish pop. Pair it with some of the best bottles from Malta’s wineries and you’ll be all set.
