Malta tends to have its own set of rules for just about everything… and dining is no exception!
Don't settle down for a meal in a restaurant on the Maltese Islands without reading this first. Or do, but don't say we didn't warn you!
DO: make a reservation
While you can walk-in to a lot of decent restaurants, it’s always best to make a reservation in advance to make sure you get the best table. If you know there’s a good view available, request a table by the window or outside. It’s also worth noting that over weekends, the best restaurants are always fully booked, especially for lunch.
DON'T: feel ashamed to order Maltese style - starter, pasta, main, dessert
We’re close to Italy, so naturally we should eat like Italians. It’s perfectly normal to order a starter followed by a pasta dish before the main. It’s surprising how natural this becomes once you’ve done it a few times. Trust us, the people at the table next to you won’t give it a second thought, and the server will instantly have a new-found respect for you.
DO: expect big portions, unless you’re in a fine dining restaurant
Many fantastic restaurants have opened and closed their doors due to their small serving sizes. When nouvelle cuisine’s popularity soured all over Europe, it nosedived in Malta. The Maltese like their portion sizes to be huge. Americana type huge. Don’t worry, you’ll get used to it quickly.
DON'T: argue with a Maltese server about how a dish is meant to be done
As infuriating as it may be, there is absolutely no point arguing with a Maltese server about how a dish is meant to be done. The situation may sound bizarre, but it can happen sooner than you can say, “this is not a real Caesar salad”. The Maltese are a stubborn bunch, so if they think a dish should be done in a certain way, nothing will change this. They also like arguing, so it will brighten up their day to have at least one shouting match during service. All it will do for you is leave you with indigestion.
DO: ask to see the fish if fresh fish is offered
It’s perfectly usual for restaurants worth their salt to present their fish if they have a fresh fish option on the menu or for specials, especially upon request. If they don’t want to show it to you, it’s a bad sign.
DON'T: judge the server by their lack of please and thank yous
They don’t mean anything by it. It’s just their way. In Maltese, they would ask, “xi trid?”, which means literally, “what do you want?” Very often visitors are a little taken aback when the server comes to the table and asks what they want. “Uh… to eat? Please?” They’re not being snarky, it’s just the way of the language. Many times, the first encounter is somewhat abrupt until they decide that you’re alright. Then their approach will soften.
DO: complement the restaurant to management if you’re happy
As quickly as the Maltese can dislike a complainer, they can love a complementer. There’s a lot of pride in the running of a restaurant, especially a family-run one, so if you enjoyed the experience, tell them. This is an excellent way to get offered a complementary liquor when you ask for the bill. Besides this, if you’re planning to return, they’ll remember you and treat you like royalty next time round.
DON'T: be embarrassed by how much you consume
When in Rome… The Maltese way of life is all about enjoying it, and food is a huge part of that. So take part in the merriment and eat as much as your stomach will physically allow. Don’t feel bad when you use your napkin as a bib when eating tomato-based pasta, or undoing your top button to make place for dessert. No one is judging.
DO: leave a 10 per cent tip
Most restaurants don’t include a gratuity charge in the bill, and server wages are considerably low, so it’s normal to leave a 10 per cent tip if you were satisfied with the service.