Is-Serkin a.k.a Crystal Palace has long been considered a local’s favourite spot for a quick pastizzi fix. Nestled in a piazza adjacent to the Mdina bastions, its stunning location is only one of the many great elements this understated bar has to offer.

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The bar’s pastizzi have become the stuff of legends – oily, crunchy and irresistibly delicious, they are the ultimate treat irrespective of season or time of day. Whether its a chill morning breakfast or a 4am snack after a night out, is-Serkin caters for everyone. However, back in the day there was another bar in Valletta that could have knocked is-Serkin off the top spot had it remained open today.

The British Bar in Valletta, owned by Dimitri Buhagiar, shared many similarities with is-Serkin in the 20^th century. Both establishments remained open at all hours of the day to serve British troops and while they enjoyed widespread popularity, there was one crucial element that set them apart.

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While is-Serkin served diamond-shaped pastizzi, The British Bar served a round version of it which was just as delectable (if not more!). Many who experienced the shop still in operation describe its snack as “mouth-watering” and share stories of how they’d nag their parents to take them there for a pastizz (or three) when they were visiting the capital.

Unfortunately, The British Bar, closed its doors for good in the '80s after almost 150 years in operation and has since been replaced by a McDonald’s joint. Is-Serkin too was headed for closure a couple of years back, but thankfully such an obscure ending was diverted and continues to dish out dozens upon dozens of the delicious snack every day.

Long live pastizzi!