If there’s one film that instantly brings summer to mind, it’s ‘Mamma Mia!’ – sun-soaked days, joyful music, great food, and even better company. And now, you can step into that feel-good, Mediterranean movie magic every week right here in Malta.

Last weekend, we were invited to experience a weekly event that brings all the elements of a perfect summer evening together – refined food, vibrant live entertainment, and an unbeatable atmosphere – all hosted at the stylish Ostrica restaurant in St Paul’s Bay.

From the moment guests arrived, the tone was set for an unforgettable night. A welcome drink and elegant canapés were served on arrival, with each table beautifully decorated with tropical flower crowns – the kind of detail that made you feel like you’d just stepped onto a Greek island set.

The menu was nothing short of a culinary journey. To start, a selection of artisanal bread, olives, focaccia, and dips opened the meal with a Mediterranean flourish. Shared starters included a delicate Gorgonzola tart with fig and walnut chutney, a seafood trio featuring calamari, prawns, and mackerel, and a pork meatball with nduja and basil purée – each dish offering a creative twist on local and international classics.

Guests then chose from standout mains like lobster ravioli, pan-seared meagre, chicken supreme, or beef short rib, all served with seasonal vegetables and potatoes. Dessert didn’t disappoint, with a trio of Maltese favourites: ricotta cannoli, ħelwa tat-tork, and mqaret – a sweet finale with a local touch.

What made the evening feel truly cinematic, though, was the music. The entertainment flowed seamlessly alongside dinner, with a live show that blended ABBA hits with beloved classics from the 1980s.

The highlight of the night was undoubtedly Maria Cini, a celebrated local performer known for her vocal and violin talent. She opened the show with an ABBA classic, instantly bringing the audience into a party mood. By the time the meal wrapped up, the crowd was on their feet, dancing and singing along – and just like that, a regular Friday night turned into a joyous celebration of music, food, and togetherness.

So if you’ve ever dreamt of stepping into a summer film scene – this is your chance. Get more information from the Ostrica Facebook page, or go ahead and book the perfect summer night on https://ostrica.mt/mamma-mia-experience/.