There are plenty of local restaurants scattered across the Maltese islands, all boasting their specialities and signature dishes. If you're keen on sampling the best of what local cuisine has to offer (and trust us, there's it's a lot), we know that picking the right spot can sometimes be daunting, so here you have it: this helpful list of traditional Maltese restaurants will help you choose where to have your next meal!

Facebook / Gululu 

1. Gozitan Restaurant

Gozitan Restaurant  is found in the heart of Paceville, making it an excellent location for a pre-drinks meal or a romantic night out in Malta’s most vibrant nightlife centre. Gozitan’s menu is stacked with a selection of starters, mains and desserts, all carrying a twist from our sister island - even the menu is written in Gozitan.

Facebook / Gozitan Restaurant

2. Ta’ Kris Restaurant

If you’re looking for an authentic Maltese meal as you walk through the streets of Sliema, your best bet would definitely be Ta’ Kris Restaurant. Tucked away in a side street just off the bustling Bisazza Street, Ta’ Kris boasts a typically Maltese menu where seasonal fresh fish is always an option.

Facebook / Ta' Kris Restaurant

3. Maestrale Gourmet

For a typical Maltese restaurant set in a typical Maltese village, you'd typically head to Maestrale Gourmet for an extensive menu combining modern techniques with staple Maltese dishes to create some of the most well-executed dishes in the area.

Facebook / Maestrale Gourmet

4. Tal-Barklor

The south of Malta is packed with restaurants, but sometimes finding the right one is tough! No more - Tal-Barklor is your next location of choice when driving through the streets of Senglea. Well, the combination of traditional flavours, great service and fair prices never failed, did it?

Instagram / gamblersjoh

5. Ta' Noni

Sometimes in life, you just can’t say no to something amazingly good. Picture this… you’re in our capital, Valletta, you’re sipping a glass of red wine, waiting for delicious food to be placed in front of you - that’s Ta' Noni for you. Instagram-worthy, tastebud approved.

Facebook / Ta' Noni

6. Il-Barri Restaurant

A favourite among the locals and a staple in Mgarr, Il-Barri Restaurant is your one-stop shop for anything Maltese. Try the rabbit, the bragjoli or the snails - you won’t be disappointed. Get ready for great service and a good time in this typical Maltese grub spot!

Facebook / Il-Barri Restaurant

7. Palazzo Preca

A Valletta joint acknowledged for its great selection of wines, stellar beef tagliata and a favourite spot for special occasions,  Palazzo Preca boasts an excellent Maltese menu. Look out for the stunning twists on local classics, with top chef plating and attentive service

Facebook / Palazzo Preca

8. Ta' L-Ingliz Restaurant

This is the place to be if you’re looking for a the type of traditional meal your granny used to make on a Sunday. If it’s a heaped bowl of pan fried garlicky rabbit you want, Ta' L-Ingliz Restaurant will make you very happy. Wear your stretchy jeans for this one - you’re in for a treat.

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9. Il-Merill Restaurant

Il-Merill Restaurant is situated in Sliema, a stone’s throw away from the promenade, and is excellent for a post-dinner stroll. The nostalgic feeling that the quaint restaurant evokes is amplified by the superb food that will simply remind you of your family kitchen.

Facebook / Il-Merill Restaurant

10. Ta' Marija

Ta ‘ Marija is probably Malta’s most energetic family run restaurant, with more than five decades of history. Professional folk dancers will put on a show accompanied by a duo performing on mandolins and guitars while you eat. There’s a certain amount of glee that fills this restaurant due to the lively entertainment and the exciting food that makes its way to your table - you'll be tapping your foot to the beat before you know it. One may also enjoy views of the Mosta Dome, whilst savouring one of the restaurant’s signature cocktails and exquisite degustation menus.

Ta' Marija

11. Gululu

Gululu is found in Spinola Bay, St Julian’s, close to the water's edge where local fishing boats dock for the night. Year in year out, Gululu never disappoints, voted ‘Best Restaurant for Maltese Food in 2018’ and rightfully so! On your next visit try the ftajjar - they're absolutely wonderful.

Facebook / Gululu 

12. L' Aroma

Sliema’s L’Aroma is a modern restaurant focusing on local specialities within their extensive menu. Some of their local specials include Aljotta (Fish Soup) and Imqaret (Fried Date Pastries) -  the perfect way to start and end your meal.

Facebook / L'Aroma

13. Razzett L-Antik 1743

Razzett L-Antik 1743  is your restaurant of choice if you’re looking for some entertainment while you eat. Think folklore costumes, traditional meals and excellent service all in a traditional Maltese farmhouse. Whether you’re dining with friends or as a party of two, you won’t fall short on what to talk about (or eat.)

Facebook / Razzett L-Antik 1743 

No matter where you head, hit the restaurants full of locals sipping at the wines, enjoying their meals and sharing a few good laughs. Pick the traditional food off the menu and experience a new cuisine.