Top 50 Restaurants in Malta 2025: A Foodie’s Guide to the Island’s Best Bites​

Malta—with its sun-soaked coastlines, historic walled cities, and melting pot of Mediterranean and North African flavors—has become a must-visit destination for food lovers. In 2025, the island’s dining scene is more vibrant than ever, blending traditional Maltese classics (think pastizzi, rabbit stew, and ftira) with innovative fusion dishes, farm-to-table freshness, and world-class seafood.​

Whether you’re a traveler exploring Valletta’s cobblestone streets, a local searching for a new favorite spot, or an expat craving authentic flavors, this guide to Malta’s top 50 restaurants covers every cuisine, budget, and vibe. We’ve curated the list based on 2025 customer reviews, chef expertise, culinary innovation, and consistency—so you can trust every recommendation.​

Why This List Matters for 2025​

Malta’s restaurant scene evolves fast: new spots open yearly, beloved institutions refine their menus, and trends like plant-based dining and sustainable seafood take center stage. This 2025 update includes:​

• New openings (2024–2025) that have already made a mark.​

• Award-winning restaurants (Michelin-recommended, Malta Restaurant Awards winners).​

• Hidden gems (off-the-beaten-path spots locals swear by).​

• Dietary-friendly options (vegan, gluten-free, and allergy-conscious eateries).​

Use the table of contents below to jump to your preferred cuisine or location!

1. Fine Dining Restaurants in Malta 2025​

For special occasions or a taste of Malta’s culinary elite, these spots deliver exceptional service, creative menus, and unforgettable views.​

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Pro Tip: Book Under Grain 2–3 months in advance—its intimate setting (only 8 tables) and Michelin Plate recognition make it one of Malta’s hardest reservations.​

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2. Best Seafood Restaurants in Malta​

Malta’s proximity to the Mediterranean means ultra-fresh fish and seafood—often caught that morning. These restaurants highlight the island’s maritime heritage.​

1. Fish Market (Valletta): A bustling spot in the historic Valletta Market, serving grilled octopus, garlic prawns, and the day’s catch (ask for lampuki, Malta’s national fish). Price: €$ (€25–€45/person).​

2. The Boathouse (St. Paul’s Bay): Waterfront dining with views of the bay. Try their Seafood Paella or Grilled Lobster. Price: €$–€$$ (€30–€60/person).​

3. Mġarr ix-Xini Restaurant (Gozo): A hidden gem in Gozo’s scenic inlet. Their Calamari Fritti (fried squid) is legendary. Price: €$ (€20–€40/person).​

4. Sea Salt (Sliema): Sustainable seafood with a focus on zero waste. Don’t miss the Tuna Tartare with Avocado. Price: €$$ (€45–€75/person).​

5. Portomaso Grill (St. Julian’s): Upscale seafood with panoramic harbor views. Their Lobster Thermidor is a fan favorite. Price: €$$ (€60–€100/person).​

Local Secret: Visit Mġarr ix-Xini for lunch—you’ll avoid dinner crowds and get the best light for photos of the inlet.​

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3. Traditional Maltese Restaurants​

To taste Malta’s soul, skip the tourist traps and head to these spots serving home-style classics.​

• Ta’ Kris (Naxxar): A family-run restaurant since 1985. Try their Stuffat tal-Fenek (slow-cooked rabbit stew) and Kwareżimal (honey-almond biscuits) for dessert. Price: €$ (€20–€35/person).​

• L-Isla Bistro (Birgu): Located in a 400-year-old building, this spot serves Pastizzi tal-Pepe (pepper-filled pastries) as an appetizer and Bragioli (beef olives) as a main. Price: €$ (€25–€40/person).​

• Ta’ Rikardu (Marsaxlokk): A waterfront eatery in Malta’s fishing village. Their Ftira biż-Żejt (Maltese bread with olive oil, tomatoes, and tuna) is a must. Price: €$ (€15–€30/person).​

• Maltese Kitchen (Valletta): Casual spot with hearty portions. Order the Minestra (Maltese vegetable soup) and Timpana (baked pasta with meat sauce). Price: €$ (€18–€32/person).​

• Ta’ Pietru (Rabat): Known for its Qassatat (cheese or pea-filled pastries) and Kebab tal-Lampuki (lampuki fish kebab). Price: €$ (€16–€28/person).​

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4. Italian Restaurants (Malta’s Favorite Fusion)​

Malta’s Italian influence runs deep—these restaurants serve authentic pasta, pizza, and gelato with a Maltese twist.​

1. La Lanterna (Sliema): Wood-fired pizza with fresh Maltese tomatoes. Try the Pizza Maltija (topped with ftira bread, olives, and tuna). Price: €$ (€15–€30/person).​

2. Da Pippo (Valletta): Family-owned trattoria with homemade pasta. Their Carbonara uses local pecorino cheese. Price: €$ (€20–€35/person).​

3. Gelateria Valentino (St. Julian’s): Not just gelato—they also serve Italian pastries and light lunches. Try the Tiramisu Gelato and Panini al Prosciutto. Price: €$ (€10–€25/person).​

4. Osteria del Borgo (Mdina): Cozy spot with slow-cooked ragù and Risotto al Funghi (mushroom risotto). Price: €$–€$$ (€25–€50/person).​

5. Pizza Express (Multiple Locations): Trusted chain with a Maltese menu item—The Maltese Star pizza (topped with rabbit sausage). Price: €$ (€12–€28/person).​

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5. Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Malta 2025​

Malta’s plant-based scene has exploded in 2025—these spots prove vegan food can be flavorful and satisfying.​

• The Green Kitchen (Valletta): 100% vegan with creative dishes like Vegan Rabbit Stew (made with jackfruit) and Chocolate Avocado Mousse. Price: €$ (€18–€30/person).​

• Roots & Fruits (Sliema): Vegetarian café with gluten-free options. Their Quinoa Salad with roasted vegetables is a hit. Price: €$ (€12–€25/person).​

• Vegan Street Food (Marsaxlokk): Food truck serving Vegan Pastizzi (cheese-free) and Falafel Wraps. Price: € (€8–€15/person).​

• The Loving Hut (St. Julian’s): International vegan cuisine—try the Thai Green Curry or Vegan Sushi. Price: €$ (€15–€28/person).​

• Earth Kitchen (Gozo): Farm-to-table vegan spot with dishes like Beetroot Carpaccio and Lentil Shepherd’s Pie. Price: €$ (€20–€35/person).​

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6. Mediterranean Fusion Restaurants​

Malta’s diverse history (Arab, Spanish, British, Italian) inspires these restaurants that blend flavors from across the region.​

1. Tagine (St. Julian’s): Moroccan-Maltese fusion. Try the Lamb Tagine with dates and Maltese Couscous. Price: €$–€$$ (€25–€50/person).​

2. Saffron (Valletta): Indian-Mediterranean fusion. Their Butter Chicken uses local olive oil instead of ghee. Price: €$–€$$ (€30–€55/person).​

3. The Black Pig (Rabat): Spanish tapas with Maltese ingredients. Order the Patatas Bravas with Kunserva (Maltese tomato paste). Price: €$ (€20–€35/person).​

4. East West (Sliema): Asian-Mediterranean fusion. Try the Teriyaki Sea Bass with lemongrass risotto. Price: €$$ (€40–€70/person).​

5. Balkan Bites (Valletta): Balkan-Maltese street food. Their Cevapi (grilled meat sausages) are served with Maltese bread. Price: €$ (€15–€28/person).​

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7. Casual Eats & Street Food Spots​

For quick, affordable meals—perfect for exploring Malta’s sights—these spots deliver.​

• Pastizzi Paradise (Multiple Locations): The best pastizzi in Malta (cheese or pea-filled). Grab a dozen for a picnic! Price: € (€1–€2 each).​

• Msida Market Food Stalls (Msida): Street food like Ftira biż-Żejt, Kebab tal-Lampuki, and Qassatat. Price: € (€5–€12/person).​

• The Burger Hub (St. Julian’s): Gourmet burgers with Maltese twists—try the Maltese Burger (topped with ftira crumbs and kunserva). Price: €$ (€10–€20/person).​

• Aħrax Bay Food Truck (Aħrax Point): Beachfront truck serving grilled corn, hot dogs, and Ice Cream Float (Maltese-style, with local soda). Price: € (€6–€15/person).​

• Valletta Street Food Festival (Valletta, Monthly): Seasonal festival with rotating vendors—check their 2025 calendar for dates! Price: € (€5–€18/person).​

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8. Restaurants in Popular Malta Locations​

Find the best spots in Malta’s top tourist areas:​

Valletta (Malta’s Capital)​

• Fine Dining: Under Grain, Noni​

• Traditional: Maltese Kitchen, Ta’ Rikardu (near Valletta)​

• Casual: Fish Market, Pastizzi Paradise​

Sliema (Waterfront Vibes)​

• Seafood: Sea Salt, The Boathouse​

• Italian: La Lanterna, Gelateria Valentino​

• Vegan: The Green Kitchen​

Gozo (Quiet Island Charm)​

• Seafood: Mġarr ix-Xini Restaurant​

• Traditional: Ta’ Pietru (Rabat, Gozo)​

• Vegan: Earth Kitchen​

St. Julian’s (Nightlife & Harbors)​

• Fine Dining: Tarragon, Portomaso Grill​

• Fusion: Tagine, East West​

• Casual: The Burger Hub​

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9. Practical Tips for Dining in Malta 2025​

• Reservations: Fine dining spots (e.g., Under Grain, The Xara Palace) fill up fast—book 1–3 months in advance, especially during peak season (June–August).​

• Tipping: Tipping is not mandatory, but 10% is appreciated for good service.​

• Peak Hours: Avoid 7–9 PM at popular spots—opt for early lunch (12–1 PM) or late dinner (9:30–10:30 PM) to beat crowds.​

• Dietary Needs: Most restaurants in 2025 offer vegan/gluten-free options, but it’s best to mention allergies when booking.​

• Local Drinks: Pair your meal with Kinnie (bitter orange soda), Cisk (local beer), or a glass of Maltese wine (try Gellewza red or Grillo white).​

Final Thoughts: Malta’s 2025 Dining Scene​

Malta’s restaurants in 2025 aren’t just about food—they’re about storytelling. From family-run spots serving recipes passed down for generations to innovative chefs reimagining Maltese classics, every meal tells a story of the island’s history and culture.​

Whether you’re craving fresh seafood by the bay, a vegan feast in Valletta, or a quick pastizzi on the go, this list has you covered. So grab your appetite, explore Malta’s streets, and enjoy the best bites the island has to offer!​

Have a favorite restaurant we missed? Let us know in the comments—we’ll update the list for 2026!