It took a while for Malta to get its sushi on, but once it did, it really did.
When I hosted Japanese students a few years back, my main question to them wouldn't be how they found Malta's history, beaches, transport, hospitality or language school quality, but rather how they found the sushi standard. The vast majority would initially tell me that it's good (which is a characteristic initial response for this beautifully polite nationality), but some places which were good by my standards weren't fresh enough by theirs. Still, there were some common local places that got the overall green light, and a few new great ones have opened since then too. Here are a few of the best places to find sushi in Malta.
1. Hugo's Lounge, St Julian's
It was probably one of the first decent places to find sushi on the island way back when. Despite it being smack in the middle of the entertainment district of Paceville, the food at Hugo's Lounge has remained a constant, with sushi alongside a whole lot of other delicious Asian fusion cuisine.
2. Club Sushi, St Julian's
You probably wouldn't know about it unless you knew about it, with it's off-the-beaten road location on Ball Street, Paceville. This small eatery promises top quality sushi, as well as Korean and Japanese traditional culinary specialities, prepared by Master Chef Patron Hyun Chol Kim.
3. Zen Japanese Sushi Bar & Teppanyaki, St Julian's
It's on the pricier side, and it's more of a fine dining restaurant rather than a sushi joint, but Zen Japanese Sushi Bar at Portomaso Marina offers excellent sushi and other authentic Japanese dishes.
4. TemptAsian Rooftop Restaurant, Sliema
Here you get to eat sushi on the ninth floor of The Palace Hotel, overlooking panoramic views of Sliema and Valletta's harbour. Apart from sushi, TemptAsian Rooftop Restaurant offers a fusion of Asian and western cuisines.
5. MedAsia Fusion Lounge, Gzira
Although at first glance it looks and sounds more like a lounge, MedAsia's sushi standards are pretty high, with a substantial selection to choose from. With the lounge music, impressive cocktail menu and buzzing vibe, this is a great place to grab some sushi.
6. Sako Sushi, St Julian's
For those who want a city sushi experience, Sako Sushi offers Malta’s very first sushi train. Unlike a lot of the other good places you'll find sushi in Malta, Sako is dedicated to it specifically, so you're likely to find the type of sushi you're precisely craving here.
7. Okurama, St Julian's
This hugely atmospheric spot has become a local Japanese cuisine favourite for many, with its buffet menu options, which allow for as much food as your tummy desires. If you're thinking big platters of sushi, this is the spot for you.
Best is subjective, so tell us if you agree, or if you're positive you’ve had better. Let us know your favourites – we’d love to check them out!