Join us on a culinary journey through some of the finest establishments in Malta, where historical charm meets fine cuisine. We’ll start with the vibrant streets of Valletta and wander through the historic alleys of Mdina. Then, we’ll soak in the delightful atmosphere of St Julian’s before heading south to discover the coastal charm of Marsaxlokk and Senglea.
ION Harbour by Simon Rogan
At ION, expect nothing short of remarkable service, breathtaking views, and cuisine that truly stands out. Headed by renowned chef Simon Rogan, holder of Three Michelin Stars for his UK restaurant, L’Enclume, the kitchen team, led by resident chefs Oli Marlow and Eoin Smith, crafts intricate Asian-inspired dishes using locally sourced vegetables, Mediterranean seafood, and luxury international ingredients.
Highlights include the raw red prawns and tartare of lampuki fish with berries. Enjoy the breathtaking view of the Grand Harbour, elevating every bite. Don't miss the chance to explore Maltese wine options like the 2020 Chardonnay from Ta’ Betta Wine Estate. Perched on the fourth floor of the Iniala Harbour House Hotel, ION offers an unforgettable dining experience with spectacular views.
Noni
Once you step into Noni you can savour a taste of the capital’s history right from your table. Though now adorned with modern décor, remnants of the past, like stone vaults and cast-iron doors still echo throughout the space.
Whether you’re looking for a quiet meal on the ground level or a livelier ambiance downstairs in the stone-walled cellar, Noni caters to your mood. Named after chef-owner Jonathan Brincat, whose passion lies in reinventing traditional Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine with a contemporary twist, this MICHELIN-starred restaurant promises a culinary adventure.
You can count on the knowledgeable team at NONI to guide you through the thoughtfully curated menu, featuring seasonal delights, complemented by reasonably priced local and Italian wines. Every meal at Noni is a celebration of flavours and history, served with precision and care.
Under Grain
Once you enter the Rosselli Hotel and take the lift down to Under Grain, you enter this elegant cellar dining space, adorned with a vaulted stone ceiling and stylish, moody décor. Drawing inspiration from Merchant Street’s former tailor shops, you’ll find evidence of this theme everywhere, from the sewing pattern menus to the creative clothing displays and the pin-cushion bill-holder.
Indulge in expertly crafted Mediterranean dishes bursting with bold, harmonious flavours that blend classic roots with a modern twist. Each dish is a contemporary masterpiece, skilfully prepared using seasonal and premium ingredients, ensuring a memorable gastronomic journey, and showcasing classic dining at its finest.
Complementing the culinary experience is a carefully curated wine list featuring hidden gems from Italy, France, and beyond. Combined with impeccable service, as evidenced by four consecutive years of the prestigious MICHELIN star accolade, dining here is truly exceptional.
Gracy's Art and Supper Club
Located in the vibrant heart of Valletta, Gracy’s occupies the stunning 17-century Palazzo Verdelin, merging the building's majestic past with a warm, inviting atmosphere for every guest. Chef Tom Peters renowned for his work at the world famous three-Michelin starred Maaemo in Norway, crafts a culinary feast with a delectable menu and exquisite wine selection, tailored to elevate any occasion.
Whether you’re in the mood for a leisurely lunch, a quick snack, or an elegant dinner, Gracy’s promises an unforgettable experience. Overlooking St George’s Square and nearby landmarks like the President’s Palace and the Grandmaster’s Palace, Gracy’s embodies the cultural essence of Valletta, ensuring a dining affair that resonates with the island’s rich heritage.
Contessa
Contessa immerses guests in a world of Southern Mediterranean luxury, where each meal celebrates local flavours and seasonal delights. The venue, an embodiment of Phoenicia Malta's esteemed hospitality, offers an exclusive culinary journey in its iconic dining room or garden-inspired terrace. Led by Executive Chef Daniel Debattista and Chef de Cuisine Alessandro Gravino, Contessa crafts tantalising dishes that satisfy every palate. From traditional Maltese Balbuljata for breakfast to exquisite seafood selections for lunch, their extensive menu ensures something for everyone, including vegan options.
Besides, sustainability is given top priority here, with a focus on responsibly sourced ingredients and an onsite Kitchen Garden. Unique tableside experiences pay homage to Countess Strickland's legacy, adding theatrical charm. Contessa promises more than just a meal, offering an enchanting gastronomic experience in an atmosphere of refined elegance.
De Mondion
Atop of The Xara Palace, de Mondion is a 17th-century baroque palazzo nestled within the ancient fortifications of Mdina, you’ll find this rooftop gem. Being a Michelin-starred restaurant, expect an unparalleled culinary experience, with locally sourced seasonal ingredients expertly transformed into sophisticated Mediterranean dishes, paying homage to the island’s bounty.
From the restaurant’s specialty the suckling pig to classic French-inspired dishes, each meal showcases the chef’s meticulous curation. The extensive wine list features some great quality vintages, and a knowledgeable sommelier is at your service to recommend the perfect pairing for every palate.
Despite the luxurious setting, service remains warm and welcoming, ensuring every visit feels special. And if you’re here in the summer months, be sure to snag a table on the terrace for breathtaking views of Malta’s eastern coast.
Zen
Located within the vibrant Portomaso complex in St Julian’s, Zen Japanese Sushi Bar offers a genuine Japanese dining experience with a scenic vista of the marina. While famous for its sushi, Zen also excels in traditional Japanese cuisine like miso soup served in their authentic Teppanyaki private room. Here, diners delight as skilled chefs exhibit their knife skills while expertly grilling Japanese dishes on hot iron plates—a practice known as Hibachi that distinguishes authentic Japanese establishments from mere commercial imitations.
A pioneer in introducing Japanese food to Malta, Zen enjoys a great reputation amongst foodies on the island, offering diverse menus and top-notch service to newcomers and regular diners alike. Its sleek and modern decor reflecting Japanese freshness, complements the year-round picturesque views from its location. With convenient parking at Portomaso, Zen stands as an ideal dining option in St. Julian’s. Whether it's your first taste of Japanese cuisine or seeking a familiar favourite, Zen promises a memorable Far Eastern culinary journey.
Blue Elephant
Gracing the renowned HILTON Malta, the Blue Elephant restaurant transports diners to a traditional Thai village with its lush greenery, waterfalls, and charming huts. As part of a prestigious global network, it promises an opulent dining experience that captures the vibrant colours, exotic flavours, and lavish presentation of Thai cuisine.
With a menu that is continually updated yet consistently creative, guests are treated to an array of mouth-watering dishes, including indigenous salads, soups, meats, and seafood. To ease decision-making, four set menus provide options for starters, soups, mains, and desserts. Highly recommended, the Blue Elephant never fails to astonish, ensuring every visit is a stylish journey to the East.
Tartarun
This charming family-run restaurant is nestled along the harbourside of a quaint fishing village in Malta – Marsaxlokk. For over a decade, the Schiavone family has been delighting guests with their passion for fresh seafood. Led by son James, Tartarun’s kitchen presents a daily changing menu showcasing simply cooked whole fish alongside innovative seafood dishes. You can also indulge in their extensive selection of wines, featuring over 150 locally renowned labels.
The team at Tartarun takes pride in supporting local fishermen while sourcing their daily bread from a nearby bakery and partnering with a hydroponic farmer just a few kilometers away. Named after the traditional Maltese fishing nets, Tartarun offers a genuine dining experience centred around the freshest locally caught fish making every dish a celebration of Malta’s culinary heritage.
The Little Bastion
Situated in Senglea, renowned as one of Malta’s Three Cities, The Little Bastion stands as a premier destination for those seeking a taste of Mediterranean cuisine against a historical backdrop. Celebrated for its culinary excellence, patrons can indulge in impeccably prepared scallops, tuna, and belly pork, followed by delectable desserts such as lemon pie and fruitcake. Complement your meal with a fine selection of wines and beers, and unwind in The Little Bastion’s inviting ambiance. This restaurant is indeed a feast for the senses, marrying delectable cuisine with a rich historical setting, making it a must-visit destination in Senglea.
Wrapping up this journey through the island's finest restaurants, whether you're drawn to Malta's rich history, craving the flavours of the Mediterranean, or simply seeking unforgettable dining experiences, we’re confident this guide has got you covered.
While you indulge in these refined establishments, remember that our team is here to guide and assist you in smoothly navigating any transition to Malta. If you would like to receive more information and assistance in finding the ideal accommodation for you and your family, please provide us with your contact details and one of our team members will get in touch with you promptly.
Cover photo: ION Harbour by Simon Rogan