Built almost half a millennium ago by the Knights of Saint John, the imposing structure that is the ancient Macina building in Senglea has been a landmark of the area for centuries. Having opened anew as the luxurious Cugó Gran Macina Grand Harbour Hotel, it is also home to the stylish Hammett’s Macina Restaurant, which has just launched an incredible new menu and sharing dining experience, created by 24-time award winning Chef and restaurateur Chris Hammett and new Head Chef Jorge Lugo.

With a concept aimed at transforming the way fine dining is done, I was delighted to be given the opportunity to experience the concept first-hand, and meet the team behind it. Staying true to the goal of enjoying one’s food, the team at Hammett’s Macina have created a shared meal format, which they believe lends itself to closeness and camaraderie around the table – something I can certainly attest from my own experience last week.

Between clinking glasses and warm laughter, those present learned about the food that was being presented, which draws from the unique building’s history. The gastronomical concept here is a take on the islands’ succession of powers, with a modern representation of traditional Mediterranean culinary influences that date back to Phoenician times.

“The Maltese culinary scene has so many influences from the Middle East, Spain, North Africa, Greece, Italy… and we wanted our menu to reflect this and tell our island’s history to locals and visitors alike,” explains Chris Hammett.

Among the dishes sampled were a flavourful local bread, tomato and tahini dish, octopus with garlic and turmeric crumble and an incredible amberjack tartar (which was a personal first!), along with some divine veggie options, including roasted cauliflower and winter mushrooms served with a soft poached egg, all of which using locally sourced ingredients wherever possible, and drawing from the island’s culinary history and Venezuelan Chef Jorge’s own regional influences.

A new wine list has also been created to accompany the historical menu, reflecting the concept and showcasing wines exclusively from Mediterrenean Coastal regions, which the team believes is unique on the island. This is also complemented by an exciting cocktail menu inspired by Maltese landmarks, from Gozo’s celebrated Salt Pans to traditional Maltese Regatta races and even Valletta’s infamous Strada Stretta.

The experience is certainly a treat for the senses, and the sharing concept means that not only is there something for everyone, but that everyone around the table gets a taste… if you’re willing to share, that is! 

Hammett’s Macina Restaurant is open everyday for breakfast, lunch, happy hour and dinner.