Staying in Sliema? Here are 7 trendy places to check out, as recommended by a local
If you're wondering where to go for food, drink and fun, we've got you covered! Here's our pick of the bunch for what to get up to in Sliema when you're not basking on the beach!
Giorgio's
Giorgio's is more than just a corner café. Giorgio's is a lifestyle! Pay a visit to this Sliema institution and watch the world go by amongst chatty locals over a cappuccino or an Aperol Spritz or two if you're feeling fruity. Giorgio's boasts quintessential black and white café decor and sunny outdoor seating which is sure to lay on those Mediterranean vibes.
Il-Merill
Tucked away just off the main shopping district is quaint little Maltese restaurant Il-Merill, named after Malta's national bird. And not to worry, it's not all about eating rabbit! Go for a bottle of local red wine and a Maltese platter of herbed sausage, bean paste, sun-dried tomatoes and peppered cheeselets as you build up to a main course of braġioli, thin beef strips stuffed with seasoned pork mince, all mopped up with a basket of crusty local bread.
Straws
Sliema's best kept sandwich bar secret! Budget-friendly Straws has been around since forever, and for good reason! They make the most delicious sandwiches and pasta salads in town, using crusty Maltese ftira bread, which happens to be the best in the world. Go for a cold ice tea and a slice of quiche or hobż biż-żejt, a Maltese classic, before a day of shopping or to take with you to the beach!
MedAsia Playa
Sushi and sunbathing? YES please! A fancy lido in the Tigne' side of town, MedAsia Playa is a beach club with a pool as well as sea access. Perfect for posing in your favourite one piece and open kaftan, this is the place to go if you're the kind of person who wears heels to a lido and doesn't mind a bit of funky house background music.
Exiles
A beach bar with a definite cool factor, you will mix with trendy locals and ex-pats,while kicking back with a cold one as you watch the sun go down here. Tuesdays and Thursdays at Exiles (or "Shack", which it's affectionately referred to), sees live music acts and it always gets pretty packed! Book a table in advance to secure your seats, and chow down on their Jack Daniel's burger with a naughty side of deep-fried goat's cheese.
Hole In The Wall
Live music, cold craft beers and melty toasties! Try Tuff Cider, a new Maltese brand that comes in pear, apple and cherry to beat the heat this summer, or cool down with their refreshing local soft drinks of Pomegranate, Almond or Tangerine fizz, this is a great hub for meeting a like-minded, laid-back crowd.
Charles Grech Bistro
For ladies (and gents!) who lunch. And when we say lunch, we're talking braised pork cheeks, grouper ravioli and coq a vin. Go for the halloumi and aubergine salad if you fancy something lighter, as the food at this small and sophisticated bistro is decadently rich!