Malta took centre stage at the latest in Conde Nast Traveller’s Chefs’ World Series events, in which the luxury travel magazine delves into the cuisine of different countries across the globe.

Calling it “the Mediterranean island of the year” and “this year’s top destination in Europe”, Conde Nast Traveller chose Malta and its cuisine for a recent event at the exclusive South Kensington Club in London. And the chef tasked with creating the menu was none other than Jonathan Brincat, from Valletta’s own Noni restaurant.

“Conde Nast Traveller invited us to give its readers a true taste of the Mediterranean, Noni style, at The South Kensington Club – a private hangout for people with a keen interest in all thing gastronomical,” says Jonathan, who served up some of the restaurant’s all-time favourites in a menu titled ‘A Taste of Malta’.

“The plan was to transport our guests to the slice of paradise we call ‘home’ with carefully-chosen Maltese flavours, executed with the contemporary twist we’re proud to be known for,” he continues, adding, “it felt good to be back in London cooking my own food, presenting a menu I created, and representing our restaurant to the culinary world.”

The main highlight, Jonathan recalls, was being called into the dining room after service to speak to two Maltese families who have been living in London for the past 30 years. “They gushed about how our flavours had brought back a lot of fond memories,” he beams.

Speaking of his inspiration behind the dishes presented, the chef explains that it was all about showcasing some of the best products we have on the island, which include pork, sheep cheese and honey. Finally, he adds, Jonathan finds inspiration in ‘traditional’ Maltese cuisine, “which we then twist or build on in a very non-traditional way.”

And if you’re curious to see what the head chef served over in London, here it is…

Starters
Pressed quail and chicken leg terrine, fig chutney, truffle and aged balsamic dressing
Local sheep cheese a la Royale, beetroot textures, mead vinaigrette
Wine: Isis Chardonnay (Meridiana Estate)

Mains
Oak smoked pork belly, braised pig’s cheeks, ham hock croquette, creamed cabbage and bacon
Warm Gozo asparagus salad, crispy hen’s egg, aged local pecorino
Wine: Melqart Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot (Meridiana Estate)

Dessert
Chocolate and mandarins delice, chocolate soil, orange sorbet
Wine: Dolce Vita Late Harvest (Cassar Camilleri)

Is it just me, or are your taste buds also craving ‘A Taste of Malta’?