See food and eat it.
One of the great joys of Mediterranean dining is the range of fantastic fish and seafood to be enjoyed here. From mussels and clams to swordfish steaks and locally-caught lampuki (mahi mahi), there are all sorts of delicious options to try and endless restaurants to consider. Here to help you narrow down your options, we pick some of our favourites.
Photo: Porticello/Facebook
A seafood lover’s paradise located within Marsamxett harbour, Porticello’s unbeatable sea-views and welcoming staff make it the ideal place to sample a wide array of local fish and seafood, washed down with a chilled glass of wine. Their stunning display of fresh fish is always inviting and their signature crudo gives a real taste of the Mediterranean.
Photo: Il Gabbiano/Facebook
A visit to Malta’s sister island Gozo wouldn’t be complete without a meal at Il Gabbiano Restaurant in Marsalforn Bay. Whether it’s sea-to-plate fish, a traditional meat dish or a delicious bowl of pasta that you’re after, this Gozitan food-haven promises mouth-watering dishes while you sit back and take in the fresh aromas and pristine views of the bright blue sea.
Photo: Spinola Terrace/Facebook
Enjoy mouth-watering Mediterranean cuisine and breath-taking views at Spinola Terrace, tucked away and overlooking the vibrant St Julian’s harbour (one of our favourite Insta-worthy spots). Their seafood pasta is perfectly balanced, and the divine fish platters are ideal if you want to try what’s in season. This is also a great date night spot, so have it on your radar if you’re looking for romance.
Photo: Pirate’s Galley/Facebook
On the corner of scenic Xlendi Bay in the southwest of Gozo lies Pirate’s Galley, a family-run eatery serving hearty seasonal food. Try their selection of fresh fish and seafood in a scrumptious salad or pasta dish, and enjoy the lively ambience of Xlendi by night for an authentic all-round dining experience.
Photo: La Capanna/Facebook
La Capanna is located at the heart of Malta’s best-known fishing village, Marsaxlokk. Tucked away in a cosy corner but still brilliantly-located right off the bustling fish market, La Capanna combines traditional and innovative cooking techniques to create exquisite fish, seafood and meat dishes, all cooked to perfection! The king prawns always go down a treat.
Photo: Two Buoys Bistro/Facebook
Dine in the picturesque surroundings of Spinola Bay, a peaceful walk away from the centre of St Julian’s. From the cured salmon to the soft crab and calamari salad, Two Buoys Bistro has quickly become one of the top destinations for local foodies. Their varied menu also caters for vegetarians and vegans.
Photo: Palazzo Preca Restaurant/Facebook
For a fabulous meal in Malta’s capital city, Valletta, look no further than Palazzo Preca. Run by two local sisters, this 16th-century Palazzo – located on the infamous Strait Street – offers a delightful selection of fish and seafood. The seafood risotto – cooked with mussels, clams, prawns, octopus, wine and fresh herbs – will speak for itself.
Photo: Ta’ Mattew/Facebook
Ta’ Mattew Restaurant in Marsaxlokk is a family-run kitchen that prides itself on serving fresh, local food – and their speciality is ‘the best from the sea’. In fact, their ingredients are sourced on a daily basis to keep flavours as fresh as possible. You can expect friendly service and delicious food at a reasonable price, while enjoying the traditional view of fishing boats bobbing on the bay.
Photo: Il-Kartell/Facebook
A Gozitan favourite along the coast of Marsalforn Bay, Il-Kartell’s homemade pasta and selection of fresh fish have lent much to its stellar reputation. The romantic setting and the appetising dishes will make you want to return again and again – just be sure to leave room for their homemade desserts!
Photo: Pintonino/Facebook
Behind one of the colourful doors that line the Valletta waterfront, you’ll find some of the best lobster pasta on the island. Pintonino Restaurant – which will soon be moving to a more central location in Valletta – is where passion for cooking comes across in a variety of fresh and simple seafood dishes, tailored to everyone's taste.
Photo: Otters Bistro/Facebook
Another gem located along Marsalforn Bay in Gozo, Otters Bistro and Lounge has crafted an incredible menu that delivers the most succulent seafood available. The service is warm and accommodating, while the superb views create a relaxed atmosphere, even on the busiest of nights. If it’s on the menu the night you visit, we recommend the grilled calamari – delicious!
Photo: Paulus/Facebook
Paulus Dining goes the extra mile to bring only the best ingredients to your plate, making for a truly heavenly dining experience. At this hidden seafront gem where visitors are treated like family, the high-quality à la carte menu and exquisite specials are a must-try for seafood aficionados! Look out for the dishes with an innovative twist – they’re the ones we can never resist when popping into Paulus.