Eating out! 8 shots that prove food & the Maltese landscape are made for each other
Understanding Maltese food is vital if you’re looking to fully understand the isles, and finding the perfect setting to enjoy the variety of local dishes is an added perk that should be experienced by the majority of our population! Whether it’s a slice of timpana in Buskett woodlands or a classic ftira on a sunbed in Mellieha Bay - you’ve got to be decked out with the right munchies for your environment. Here are a few traditional dishes that can be enjoyed in their ‘natural’ habitat:
1. A platter with a Gozitan view
Preparing the perfect platter requires a mix of cured meat, a selection of cheeses, some add-ons that serve as a great spread or dipping vessels and a tipple to wash it all down. Add a glorious Gozitan sunset to the mix and you’ll be in seventh heaven.
2. A pastizz in the capital
You’re in Malta’s sun-kissed capital. You’re slightly peckish, not quite ready for a big meal but there’s a hole in your stomach that simply needs to be filled. The trusty pastizzi pop into your head with memories of their flaky exterior and smooth filling…you find the perfect backdrop for that classic Instagram shot and your life is suddenly complete.
3. A pizza by the waters
Pizza might not be traditionally Maltese but it’s found its way into our hearts (and stomachs) several times - we love pizza and there’s no better place to enjoy a slice or two by the sea. And the turquoise waters of the Blue Lagoon couldn’t be better!
4. 5 o’clock ANYWHERE
There’s always time for a stiff drink or a fancy cocktail. Point blank. We can end this story here, but let’s just say that a spritz in the Mediterranean heat is perfect, especially if your view is jaw dropping and the gentle breeze hits you just right.
5. BBQ on the beach
If you’re a local, you probably love BBQs: the charred food; the outdoor experience; and the impeccable ability a BBQ has to gather friends and family. Well, take the BBQ to the beach and there’s absolutely nothing better. No matter how many people agree to join, there’s always the one guy who man’s the grill…a solo job that’s always 100% appreciated!
6. Poolside pasta luncheons
You’re chilling by the pool, you’re curing a rough hangover and the hunger hit suddenly strikes…the only cure…PASTA! It might be a carb overload but it sure will soak up all the self-loathing and get you right back on the bottle in a couple of hours. Score!
7. Lick it up on the promenade
Get your mind out of the gutter - we’re talking about ice-cream…obviously! Pile up a couple of flavours onto a sturdy waffle cone, walk your way down to the next foodie pitstop and appreciate the quiet pace of life as you make your way through the tower of flavours.
8. Fish out on the edge of the world
Perch your table right by the edge of the stunningly blue Maltese sea, look down at the fish swimming blissfully below you while you chow down on one of their distant cousins. They’re so fresh and juicy, the immoral thoughts drift away with every mouthful.
Food in Malta and Gozo is bountiful. It’s fresh, it’s fun and it can be enjoyed all around the islands. Find yourself a show-stopping backdrop and capture the intensity of Malta’s mouthwatering cuisine.