So many fabulous new restaurants opened their doors in Malta in 2018… these are our favourites.
2018 was a good year for foodies in Malta. From local cuisine to delicious Asian street-food, we were spoilt for choice by the number of fantastic places that opened their doors. Now, we’ve whittled that list down and these are our favourites!
Hammett’s Macina, Senglea
A haven for those looking for the finer things in life, this beautiful restaurant combines a stunning venue (in a structure built by the Knights of St John over half a millennium ago) and the talents of top local restaurateur Chris Hammett (as well as his award-winning team). Highlights include the beef fillet tartar to start with, followed by the sous vide rump of lamb and a side of truffled mashed potatoes – with crushed lemon pie for dessert. I highly recommend going all-out on the fabulous five-course tasting menu and perfectly-chosen wine pairings.
Carob Tree Food Court, St Julian’s
If you hear ‘food court’ and think ‘low quality nosh’ you’re in for a wonderful surprise at the Carob Tree, where each outlet was hand-picked by the owners based on how tasty their existing Malta-based restaurant menus were. So, while the concept is laid-back and flexible, you know you’ll enjoy top-quality fare that can be mixed-and-matched, including Indian, Asian, sushi, pizza, pasta, fish and meat, washed down with cocktails, wine and coffees. Plus, with easy parking, it’s the ideal choice if you’ve hired a car and want somewhere stress-free on all accounts.
Nori & Taro at The Villa, St Julian’s
With gorgeous views from the terrace and a stunning setting indoors, this is our new choice for all-weather dining with oodles of personality. In fact, you’ll find plenty of different experiences within one concept here – from Asian street food to absolutely fabulous cocktails. And if you want to mix great food with a cool lounge concept and great music, head over for their trademark Villa Fridays or Villa Sundays.
Manouche, St Julian’s
This time last year something was missing in Malta: a craft bakery with French-style treats so moreish we couldn’t bear to miss them. Thankfully, Manouche has since opened its doors to fill that hole and anyone with a love for pastries (and more) now flocks here. Personally, I struggle to get through a week without one of their pecan éclairs, but there’s so much more than that, including homemade chocolate, delicious hot drinks, and a whole other menu in their even-more-recently-opened Bistro next door.
N Japanese Bistro, Valletta
Sushi is a truly popular dish in Malta but, until now, there weren’t that many options out there for more varied Japanese fare. This bistro – located on one of the trendiest parts of Strait Street – changed that, with its authentic menu of favourites (including their scrumptious potato croquettes), as well as Japanese whisky and gin. They serve fantastic sushi too, of course, but I highly recommend trying some of the other options on the menu – they promise a little piece of Kyoto magic served up right here in the Med.
IN.Fame, Valletta
And now for something a little different, IN.Fame (a concept inspired by the character of the great painter Caravaggio) brings Brazilian flair and a South American twist to the capital. This is a super spot for everything from tapas and a cocktails to a full-blown meal, with highlights including the vegan tartar, the Picanha beef and Caldeirada risotto. Leave room for the aptly-named brownie soup… it’s unbelievably delish.
Noodle Box, Sliema
Finally, for something quick, fresh, on-the-go and yummy, we’ve discovered Noodle Box – a concept which opened its doors a few weeks ago in Sliema. Pop in, choose your noodles, protein, veg, and a sauce, and watch it be cooked up before your very eyes. It’s definitely my new go-to when I want something fast and not-too-naughty, and the Asian flavours are divine.