Local bars and cafes have always been popular among the Maltese – a spot for locals not just to drink or snack, but to connect with one another. In fact, even after their closure, many locals can still recall memories of their time spent at several of these memorable spots over the years.
And when an old photo of the San Gwann Jubilee Bar recently surfaced on Facebook, many locals did just that!
Raymond Grima via Facebook / Nostalgia Malta
Suggested to have been owned by a man called Salvu, who supposedly always kept the bar in pristine condition, locals commenting in Facebook’s San Gwann Residents group note that the bar was located next to the local police station in what is now Vjal Ir-Rihan.
Many commentators on Nostalgia Malta shared positive memories of their time at the Jubilee Bar, particularly during the ‘80s. One recalls how he would visit the bar every day when he was younger, enjoying a cola and some peanuts with his friends. He also notes how it was always a great spot to hang out during the local feast celebrations.
Another local commented that he would pass by the bar for a drink with his friends before heading to Paceville, while another simply remembers passing by it on her daily walk to school.
Another even writes how Salvu would make tea and serve it in a coca cola bottle for the price of three soldi. We bet you don’t see that anymore!
Sadly, this much-loved bar no longer exists today, and has apparently been turned into a tennis supply shop, which has also closed its doors since.
Looking back, we can suggest that a place like Jubilee Bar wasn’t just a business, but a community, one that will forever be missed, but remembered by many.
Did you ever visit Jubilee Bar in San Gwann? If yes, we’d love to hear about it!