Food & drink
The moment of truth! Here are some of the best places to get a traditional Maltese ftira
Try Malta’s favourite (and iconic!) sandwich

Lyndsey Grima

What's better than a delicious Maltese ftira by the beach? What’s better than a delicious Maltese ftira, ANYWHERE, for that matter?!

Crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside, common toppings for a typical Maltese ftira include tomatoes, onions, capers, olives, tuna, anchovies, and cheese. Of course, toppings might vary depending on personal preference and the shop/outlet you’re buying it from. The result? A delicious and hearty piece of bread that is perfect for any meal or quick snack!

We were on the hunt to find the best ftira in Malta, so we turned to, none other, than our trusty GuideMeMalta.com readers to tell us their favourite ftira.

Buchman's Snack Bar – Gżira

Widely accepted as the best ftira on the island, Buchman’s unashamedly boasts about it, with a sign claiming just that outside their front. Their Facebook page also has ‘GHAL FTIRA GENWINA’, translated to ‘Come here for a genuine ftira’ as their main description. 

The Submarine - Valletta

Located in Valletta and dubbed to have the ‘best sandwiches in Valletta’, you can create your favourite combo of ingredients for a unique sandwich here, including the famous Maltese ftira! 

JAR - Sliema

Located at The Point Shopping Mall in Sliema, JAR is the perfect spot to stop for a quick traditional snack while you’re doing your shopping. 

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Olympic Bar (Xufi) – Mosta

Taste your traditional custom-made ftira while soaking up the sunshine with a view of one of Malta’s most popular attractions: the imposing Mosta dome at the classic Xufi.

Sea View Cafe – Mellieħa

One of the best views on the island accompanies one of the best ftiras on the island at the Sea View Cafe - a visit here is a must if you’re visiting the north of the island.

Mekren's Bakery – Gozo

And, while the Gozitan version of ftira is entirely different, it still made it to our list. Resembling a pizza of sorts, its bread base is covered in thinly sliced potatoes, onions and similar Mediterranean goodies BEFORE it is put in the oven! Ps. Now Mekren is also located in Qormi in Malta!

Duke's Snack Bar – Msida

Made to include your specific requests, at Duke’s, using the magic phrase b’kollox (with everything!) will get you an impressive sandwich for all the right reasons.

Fontanella Tea Garden – Mdina

Known for its delicious cakes and views, Fontanella also serves a mean Maltese ftira! 

Giorgio's Cafe Boutique – Sliema

Known for being one of the first cafes to open in Sliema, Giorgio's is also a fantastic option to get your Maltese traditional snack/lunch.

Where have you had the best ftira?

10th March 2024


Lyndsey Grima
Written by
Lyndsey Grima
Lyndsey has always been passionate about all things content. She keeps her storytelling skills sharp by exercising physically as she’s a fitness buff and also mentally as she enjoys reading and travelling.

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