The 35 Best Restaurants in Malta (2026 Where to Eat Guide)
Looking for the best restaurants in Malta? Get ready to tease your tastebuds!
Maltese cuisine is a perfect blend of Mediterranean and Middle Eastern.
During our 12-day Malta road trip, we tasted local delicacies like Maltese rabbit stew and traditional pastizzi, and our taste buds fell in love!
This guide was updated for 2026 and includes everything from casual local bakeries to upscale fine–dining restaurants across Valletta, Gozo, and beyond.
It’s divided by location, so you’ll know exactly where to go for delicious food.
So grab a glass of wine and discover the 35 best restaurants in Malta!
Plan Your Trip with My Favorite Resources
🔹Best accommodation site: Booking.com
🔹Reserve your rental car: Discover Cars
🔹Purchase travel insurance: SafetyWing
🔹Find an activity or tour: Viator or GetYourGuide
Quick Picks: Best Restaurants in Malta at a Glance
➡️Short on time? Here are our top restaurant picks in Malta based on cuisine, location, and experience.
| Best For | Restaurant | Location | Price Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Traditional Maltese | Nenu the Artisan Baker | Valletta | €€ |
| Romantic Fine Dining | De Mondion | Mdina | €€€€ |
| Harbour Views | The Harbour Club | Valletta | €€€ |
| Seafood | Tartarun Fish Restaurant | Marsaxlokk | €€€ |
| Local Hidden Gem | Tal-Petut | Birgu (3 Cities) | €€€ |
| Casual Local Favorite | Ta’ Kris | Sliema | €€ |
| Michelin-Star Experience | ION – The Harbour | Valletta | €€€€ |
| Best in Gozo | Ta’ Rikardu | Victoria, Gozo | €€ |
| Budget Bite | Crystal Palace Bar | Rabat | € |
| Steak Night | Carvv Grill & Enoteca | Malta | €€€ |
Best Restaurants in Valletta
When you get to Malta, chances are you will head for the capital of Valletta. Lucky for you, this vibrant city might just be the top chef in Maltese food.
The historic center of Valletta is packed with amazing things to do and many of the best restaurants in town.
We stayed at this charming boutique hotel and enjoyed delicious homemade breakfasts and excellent hospitality.
1. Nenu the Artisan Baker
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Valletta | 🍽️Menu: here
This restaurant is famous for its fresh, traditional Maltese ftira bread, baked on-site, and offers classic Maltese dishes, such as rabbit stew and pastizzi.
2. The Harbour Club
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Valletta | 🍽️Menu: here
Located on the waterfront, The Harbour Club offers stunning views of the Grand Harbour. They serve delicious seafood and Mediterranean-inspired dishes and have a great selection of wine and cocktails.
3. Rampila
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍Location: Valletta | 🍽️Menu: here
Rampila is one of the best restaurants in Valletta and offers a unique dining experience in a 16th-century bastion. They specialize in Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine, including fresh seafood.
Fancy a Food Tour?
From savory seafood to cozy trattorias, part of what makes Malta worth visiting is the cuisine! Consider a guided tour of the best places in Valletta to sample local delicacies!
➡️Book your 5 star tour here:
✔️Maltese Wine & Chocolate Pairing Tour
✔️Valletta Street Food & Culture Walking Tour
Best Restaurants in the Three Cities (Vittoriosa, Senglea & Cospicua)
Malta’s 3 Cities have fantastic restaurants that cater to traditional Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine. And since English is an official language in Malta, there will be no need to translate any menus!
4. Tal-Petut
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Birgu | 🍽️Menu: here
This cozy restaurant serves traditional Maltese dishes with a modern twist. They offer a daily-changing menu with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
5. Del Borgo
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Birgu | 🍽️Menu: here
Enjoy dinner inside this medieval building or on the outdoor patio for stunning views of the Grand Harbour. They are known for their fresh seafood, pasta, and homemade desserts.
6. Don Berto
⭐️ Rating: 4.2 Stars |📍Location: Birgu | 🍽️Menu: here
Known for its relaxed atmosphere, generous portions, and reasonable prices, this is a great choice for a casual dinner with friends. Their menu has a wide variety of fresh seafood and vegetarian options.
Best Restaurants in St. Julian’s
As the nightlife capital, St. Julian’s has amazing restaurants and bars.
It is also the departure point for boating day trips to Comino. So after a day in the sun, start your evening off right at one of the best restaurants on the island.
7. Avenue Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.4 Stars |📍Location: St. Julian’s | 🍽️Menu: here
The Avenue is a modern, casual restaurant located in the heart of St. Julian’s. With a Mediterranean-inspired menu, they are known for homemade pasta dishes, wood-fired pizzas, and fresh salads.
8. Hugo’s Terrace & Rooftop Bar
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍Location: St. Julian’s | 🍽️Menu: here
This stylish little establishment, located in Paceville, is a great spot for a night out! The menu is a mix of Mediterranean and international cuisine, with dishes like beef carpaccio, lobster risotto, and sushi.
Best Restaurants in Sliema
The bustling coastal city of Sliema has some of the best shopping, indoor activities, and restaurants in Malta. From charming seafront cafes and chic bistros to fine dining experiences, Sliema offers a global fusion of flavors.
9. Ta’ Kris Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.4 Stars |📍Location: Sliema | 🍽️Menu: here
This popular, cozy restaurant has a welcoming atmosphere and serves traditional Maltese cuisine and dishes like rabbit stew, bragioli (beef olives), and ftira (Maltese bread).
10. Surfside Bar & Grill
⭐️ Rating: 4.2 Stars |📍Location: Sliema | 🍽️Menu: here
This beachfront restaurant has a relaxed, laid-back vibe with fantastic views of the coast. They offer a range of international cuisine, including burgers, steaks, seafood, and pasta, plus great cocktails.
Best Restaurants in Mellieha
The picturesque town of Mellieha is a must on any Malta vacation.
Not only does have one of the most luxurious adult only hotels on the island, but it makes our list of some of the best places to eat in Malta.
11. Commando Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.7 Stars |📍Location: Mellieha | 🍽️Menu: here
This family-run restaurant serves traditional Maltese cuisine, with dishes like rabbit stew, octopus in garlic sauce, and beef olives. It has a cozy and rustic atmosphere, with beautiful stone walls and wooden beams.
12. Mithna Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Mellieha | 🍽️Menu: here
If you’re looking for a unique dining experience, head to this restaurant located in an old bakery with exposed brick walls and a wood-burning oven. Try the pork belly with apple sauce, or fish soup with croutons.
Best Restaurants in Mdina
Looking for a romantic dining experience? Then head to the walled city of Mdina, one of the most romantic and beautiful cities in Malta.
Many restaurants are set in medieval stone buildings that offer a truly unique dining experience… making them arguably a step above the rest.
13. The Medina Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍Location: Mdina | 🍽️Menu: here
Located in the heart of Mdina, this restaurant offers stunning views from its rooftop terrace. The menu features Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine, with an emphasis on fresh seafood and local produce.
14. De Mondion
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 Stars |📍 Location: Mdina | 🍽️Menu: here
This upscale restaurant is located within the Xara Palace Relais & Chateaux Hotel in Mdina. The menu features contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, with seasonal ingredients and innovative flavors.
15. Fontanella Tea Garden
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍 Location: Mdina | 🍽️Menu: here
For salads, sandwiches, and Maltese dishes, head to this charming tea garden with stunning countryside views. It’s famous for its homemade cakes and pastries!
Best Restaurants in Rabat
Whether you’re looking for a memorable dining experience or want to join a cooking class to learn how to create your own Maltese dinner, Rabat is the place to be.
The charming town of Rabat has some of the best places to eat in Malta. Here are a couple of our favorites!
16. Grotto Tavern
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍 Location: Rabat | 🍽️Menu: here
A true gem, this rustic, charming restaurant has been serving traditional Maltese cuisine for 50 years in a gorgeous historic building. The menu includes dishes like rabbit in red wine sauce, fish soup, and beef stew.
17. Diar il-Bniet
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Rabat | 🍽️Menu: here
Located in the rural outskirts of Rabat, this restaurant serves authentic Maltese cuisine with locally sourced ingredients from their own vegetable garden. They also offer personal cooking classes and food tours.
18. Crystal Palace Bar
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Rabat
This family-run restaurant in the heart of Rabat offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with an outdoor patio. They serve a mix of Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine.
Best Restaurants in Mosta
Dining in Mosta offers a delicious mix of traditional Maltese cuisine and international flavors. Get ready for a gastronomic experience that will leave you craving more!
19. Ta’Marija Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.4 Stars |📍Location: Mosta | 🍽️Menu: here
Located in the heart of Mosta, this place has a warm atmosphere and is known for its delicious rabbit dishes and other Maltese specialties. It offers live music and entertainment in the evenings.
20. San Remo
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 Stars |📍Location: Mosta
Set inside a beautiful stone building with wooden beams, this delightful restaurant serves Mediterranean and European cuisine. There are vegetarian options and the staff is very attentive.
👉Learn more about San Remo here!
Best Seafood Restaurants in Marsaxlokk
The fishing village of Marsaxlokk is known for its fresh seafood. I mean, that’s a given!
But seriously, you should rent a car and head over to this colorful town. It has some of the best restaurants in Malta. Here are a couple of our favorites.
21. Tartarun Fish Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Marsaxlokk | 🍽️Menu: here
This popular, relaxed place is right on the harbor with a friendly atmosphere and beautiful sea views. It serves fresh fish and seafood caught by local fishermen and is prepared using traditional Maltese recipes.
22. Ta’ Victor
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Marsaxlokk
This family-run establishment is in a charming building with rustic decor near the harbor. They serve traditional Maltese and delicious seafood dishes such as grilled fish, calamari, and octopus.
👉Learn more about Ta’ Victor here!
Best Restaurants in Marsaskala
As with most coastal towns in Malta, Marsaskala has excellent fresh seafood and Mediterranean cuisine. Check out these places during your visit.
23. Sotto Pinsa Romana Marsaskala
⭐️ Rating: 4.7 Stars |📍Location: Marsaskala | 🍽️Menu: here
Craving delicious, authentic Italian food? This cozy restaurant has indoor & outdoor seating and is known for its delicious Roman-style pizza. They also serve a variety of pasta dishes, salads, and appetizers.
24. Tal Familja Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Marsaskala | 🍽️Menu: here
This family restaurant offers traditional Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine and features fresh seafood, grilled meats, pasta, and salads. There are vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Best Restaurants in Gozo
Time to take the Malta ferry to Gozo to indulge in even more Maltese delicacies.
With farm-to-table freshness and locally sourced ingredients, the restaurants in Gozo, Malta provide a relaxed dining experience that is packed with flavor.
From seaside bistros serving freshly caught seafood to rustic eateries tucked away in quaint villages, Gozo’s best restaurants promise an unforgettable culinary journey.
Best Restaurants in Victoria, Gozo
As the capital of Gozo, Victoria is home to a variety of restaurants serving a range of cuisines for you to try. Here are a few top recommendations.
25. Ta’ Rikardu
⭐️ Rating: 4.4 Stars |📍Location: Victoria
In addition to vegetarian options, they offer delicious Maltese dishes like rabbit stew, goat cheese, and traditional bread. The interior is rustic, with stone walls and a wood oven.
👉Learn more about Ta’ Rikardu here!
26. Cardamom Indian Cuisine
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 Stars |📍Location: Victoria | 🍽️Menu: here
That’s right, you can get authentic Indian curries, tandoori, and biryani dishes right in town! Made with traditional Indian spices and flavors, it is a nice alternative, and the staff is super friendly.
Best Restaurants in Marsalforn
We were so happy that driving in Malta was easy, it meant we could explore beautiful towns like Marsalforn. There is just something special here.
Not only is the scenery gorgeous, but Marsalforn is a must on our best restaurants in Malta list. Here’s why…
27. Il-Kartell Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Marsalforn | 🍽️Menu: here
Dine inside the beautiful arched stone building or outside on the terrace at this family-run restaurant. They specialize in fresh seafood and Mediterranean dishes made with locally sourced ingredients.
28. Otters Bistro
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍Location: Marsalforn | 🍽️Menu: here
Situated perfectly on the seafront and beach, this place is popular among Gozitans and visitors. Order your meal à la carte or try its popular “Daily Specials” while gazing over the Mediterranean Sea.
Best Restaurants in Xlendi Bay
We used the adorable village of Xlendi Bay as our base during our 12-day Malta road trip. Not only does it have some of the best restaurants in Gozo, Malta, but the village is in a little bay surrounded by gorgeous cliffs.
Of course, tasting the fresh seafood caught daily by local fishermen is a must. We dined at all three of these restaurants and can’t recommend them enough!
29. Ta’ Karolina
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Xlendi Bay | 🍽️Menu: here
On the waterfront with stunning views of the bay, this popular family-run restaurant offers a variety of fresh seafood and traditional Maltese cuisine with generous portions and reasonable prices.
30. Zafiro Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.3 Stars |📍Location: Xlendi Bay | 🍽️Menu: here
With indoor & outdoor seating, Zafiro has beautiful views and a relaxed atmosphere. They have a daily menu and are known for their delicious seafood and Mediterranean-inspired cuisine.
31. Boat House Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.6 Stars |📍Location: Xlendi Bay | 🍽️Menu: here
Enjoy dinner in this cozy and intimate restaurant. The menu features a variety of seafood dishes, including fresh fish and octopus, meat and vegetarian options, and an excellent wine selection.
➡️Book this top rated Wine Tasting & Dinner on Gozo here!
Fine Dining & Michelin-Star Restaurants in Malta
Malta is home to several Michelin–star restaurants and award–winning fine dining establishments. Several of the restaurants below have earned Michelin stars or are featured in the Michelin Guide.
If you’re celebrating something special, these are worth reserving in advance.
🔹Under Grain — Valletta
🔹Noni — Valletta
🔹ION – The Harbour — Valletta
🔹The Harbour Club — Valletta
🔹Fernandõ Gastrotheque — Sliema
🔹De Mondion — Mdina
🔹Grotto Tavern — Rabat
🔹Commando — Mellieħa
🔹Tartarun — Marsaxlokk
🔹Bahia — San Anton
Best Places to Eat in Malta For…
Here is a short list of the best places to eat in Malta for specific groups or food preferences.
Families
32. Salia Restaurant Mellieha
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: Mellieha | 🍽️Menu: here
A family-friendly restaurant with warm hospitality creates a delightful dining experience for all ages. Nestled in a charming building, they welcome families and offer a diverse menu that caters to even the pickiest eaters.
Vegans and Vegetarians
33. Balance Bowl
⭐️ Rating: 4.8 Stars |📍Location: Gżira | 🍽️Menu: here
Come enjoy vibrant, nutrient-packed bowls featuring fresh local produce and mouthwatering plant-based creations made especially for vegetarians.
Seafood
34. Santini Restaurant
⭐️ Rating: 4.5 Stars |📍Location: St Julian’s | 🍽️Menu: here
Immerse yourself in an ocean of flavors as you savor the freshest catch of the day. This highly praised establishment was a TripAdvisor Traveller’s Choice in 2022 and it doesn’t take long to see why!
Steak
35. Carvv Grill and Enoteca
⭐️ Rating: 4.7 Stars |📍Location: St Paul’s Bay | 🍽️Menu: here
Friendly staff and an inviting ambiance set the stage for a memorable dining experience. Tickle your taste buds with deliciously tender steaks, flavorful ribs, a fantastic salad bar, and great drinks.
Malta Restaurants: Tips for Dining Out
Here are just a few tips for dining out in the best restaurants in Malta. We want to make sure your culinary journey is unforgettable!
🍽️Try Local Delicacies: Trying traditional pastizzi and rabbit stew is one of the must-do activities in Malta offering a true taste of the island’s heritage.
🍽️Seafood Delights: Surrounded by the stunning Mediterranean sea, Malta is a seafood lover’s dream. Try local lampuki, swordfish, and prawns.
🍽️Snack & Stroll: Take in some street food when you get the chance. It’s a great easy option when exploring… and it’s cheaper!
🍽️Ask the Locals: Not only are the Maltese people warm and friendly, but they all speak English! They are happy to point you in the right direction for whatever your palette is craving.
🍽️Enjoy Alfresco Dining: Many restaurants have outdoor terraces, so eat outside when you can and enjoy the lovely weather and insect-free environment!
🍽️Save Room for Dessert: Looking for something sweet? Try a kannoli or honey-drenched Gozitan cheeselets.
🍽️Pace Yourself: Maltese meals are often a delicious spread of multiple courses. Pace yourself and enjoy the experience.
FAQs: Restaurants Malta
Does Malta have a Michelin-star restaurant?
Yes, six restaurants were re-awarded One MICHELIN Star in 2023. They are: Under Grain, Noni, ION – The Harbour, De Mondion, Bahia, and Fernandõ Gastrotheque.
How many Michelin-star restaurants are in Malta?
In 2023, 6 restaurants qualified. Check out the Michelin site for more details.
What food is Malta famous for?
Some famous Maltese dishes include Pastizzi, rabbit stew, fresh seafood, gbejniet (Maltese cheese), Maltese sausage (ġbejna), Gozitan cuisine, lampuki pie, Imqaret, and Kapunata.
What American restaurants are in Malta?
There are many restaurants that we would consider American, such as burger & pub joints. If you’re looking for a classic American restaurant, head to the Hard Rock Cafe, in multiple locations.
Is Malta expensive or cheap?
Malta has a reputation for being more expensive, but we found Malta equivalent to the tourist hot spots in Italy or France. Keep in mind that certain dishes in restaurants can be more expensive, as it is an island and ingredients are harder to get.
What is the main drink in Malta?
Cisk Lager and Kinnie (soft drink) are local favorites. But we found Aperol spritzes were everywhere.
Why is food so expensive in Malta?
The main reason food is expensive is because Malta is an island. Being geographically isolated, there is limited land for farming. Tourism, exchange rates, and high food standards/regulations impact this as well.
How much is a meal for 2 in Malta?
We spent around 40 – 60€ on dinner at a mid-range budget restaurant. You can eat for cheaper if you buy food from shops or street vendors.
What alcohol is Malta famous for?
Mainly wine and beer, but Malta is mostly famous for local liqueurs: Lumicetta ta’ Mari, Bajtrija, and Hanini Digestive.
Final Thoughts: Best Restaurants in Malta
Well, there you have it. Our list of the 35 best restaurants in Malta.
These restaurants top the culinary scale, not just for variety, but also for quality. It was always a relief to know every meal we sat down for was delicious.
We haven’t been able to say that about every destination we have traveled to, which makes the cuisine a wonderful reason to visit Malta.
Now with this Malta restaurant guide, you can have unique dining experiences and an unforgettable culinary journey too.
Happy travels!
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