Valletta
1960s Valletta entertainment! Taking a glimpse at the iconic Café Premier at Piazza Regina
Do you remember Café Premier in its prime?

Emma Galea

In a series of photos shared by John C. Navarro, one can get a nostalgic snippet of the life of entertainment in Valletta during the 1960s!

The shots show Café Premier, situated in Piazza Regina, now known as Republic Square.

Many musicians and performers, including British servicemen stationed in Malta and Maltese locals used to hit the stage at Café Premier and entertain the crowds that gathered in the square.

John nostalgically remembered how his father used to send him to the square early to secure a table and chairs for all the family as the square would fill up in no time.

One commentator marked how it looks like Vinny Vella's Band was playing in both photos. The audience seem to be having the time of their life.

Do you think that the Café Premier should make a comeback?

6th February 2026


Emma Galea
Written by
Emma Galea
Emma is a Gozitan writer who loves all things related to English literature and history. When not busy studying or writing you will either find her immersed in a fictional book or at the cinema trying to watch as many films as she possibly can!

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