Malta is more than just stunning coastlines and ancient history; it’s a food lover’s paradise. Maltese cuisine is a melting pot of Mediterranean flavors with strong Italian, North African, and Middle Eastern influences. Whether you’re sampling street food or indulging in a full-course meal at a fine dining spot, Malta has something for every palette. Here’s what and where you should eat in Malta.
Must-Try Maltese Dishes
Pastizzi
Let’s start with the king of Maltese street food: pastizzi. These savory pastries are crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. They’re filled with either ricotta cheese or mushy peas and are incredibly cheap. You’ll typically find them in small bakeries known as pastizzerias. It’s not uncommon for locals to grab two or three at a time.
Rabbit Stew (Stuffat tal-Fenek)
If there’s a national dish in Malta, it’s rabbit stew. Known locally as “Stuffat tal-Fenek,” this slow-cooked wonder is tender and flavorful. The rabbit is braised in red wine and tomato sauce, and it’s often served with potatoes. You’ll find this dish in most traditional Maltese restaurants, and it’s almost always accompanied by a glass of local wine.
Kapunata
Similar to the Italian ratatouille, Kapunata is Malta’s very own vegetable stew made with tomatoes, eggplants, and bell peppers. It’s often served as an appetizer or a side dish. It’s vegan-friendly and packs a flavorful punch thanks to herbs like basil and mint. Look for it in local restaurants or even as a topping in sandwiches.
Ftira
Imagine a Maltese take on pizza: that’s what you get with a ftira. It’s a round, flatbread sandwich filled with ingredients like olives, capers, tuna, and tomatoes. Every bite is an explosion of fresh and tangy flavors. You can pick one up at bakeries throughout Malta for a satisfying, cheap lunch option.
Aljotta (Maltese Fish Soup)
Maltese fish soup, called “Aljotta,” is a fisherman’s classic. The broth is rich with garlic, and the soup is brimming with fresh seafood like fish, clams, or even mussels. It’s best eaten by the coast, where the seafood is fresh from the catch of the day.
Bragioli (Beef Olives)
Bragioli consists of thin slices of beef rolled around a stuffing of breadcrumbs, eggs, and herbs, simmered in a wine-based sauce. It’s hearty and delicious. Though it’s called “olives,” there’s no actual olive in the dish—the term refers to its shape.
Popular Street Foods
Qassatat
Qassatat is the smaller cousin of pastizzi. These savory pastries are filled with ricotta, peas, or spinach, and unlike pastizzi, qassatat are less flaky and have a more bread-like texture. They’re perfect for a quick snack or light breakfast.
Imqaret
If you have a sweet tooth, look for imqaret at any street food stall. These date-filled pastries are fried to perfection, crispy on the outside and soft and sweet on the inside. They’re often served with a sprinkling of icing sugar.
Hobz biz-Zejt
One of the simplest yet tastiest street foods is hobz biz-zejt: Maltese bread drizzled with olive oil and filled with ingredients like tomatoes, capers, tuna, and olives. It’s a quick, flavorful sandwich that is perfect for those on the go. You’ll find vendors selling this in local markets and beachside stalls.
Local Markets and Dining Recommendations
Is-Suq tal-Belt Valletta Food Market
If you’re wandering around Valletta, make sure to stop by Is-Suq tal-Belt, located in an old market hall. This indoor market has been converted into a food court offering everything from fresh seafood to local pastries. You can grab lunch or have a coffee under its historical arches.
Marsaxlokk Fish Market
For a true seafood lover’s paradise, head to Marsaxlokk on a Sunday morning. This traditional fishing village hosts one of the island’s most popular fish markets. Watch the fishermen unload their catch and choose from a variety of freshly caught fish, prawns, squid, and more. Nearby, there are plenty of seaside restaurants where you can enjoy your meal with a view.
Mosta Farmers’ Market
If farm-fresh produce is what you’re after, visit the Mosta Farmers’ Market. You’ll find seasonal vegetables, fruits, and herbs, as well as local cheese and honey. It’s the best place to grab fresh ingredients if you want to cook while staying on the island. Don’t miss the small cupcake and pastry stalls, which offer tasty bites on the go.
Regional Specialties
Ghagin il-Forn
This baked macaroni dish is a Maltese comfort food. It’s a blend of pasta, minced meat, eggs, and sometimes peas, covered in cheesy goodness and baked until golden. You can try this in any traditional Maltese restaurant, especially in the smaller towns and villages.
Bigilla
Bigilla is a bean dip made from mashed broad beans or fava beans. It’s often served as an appetizer with some crackers or Maltese bread. You’ll find it as a starter in many traditional restaurants, and it’s a popular choice at local bars to go with a beer or wine.
Lampuki Pie
Malta’s version of a fish pie, Lampuki Pie, uses the local fish, lampuki (dorado), along with vegetables like spinach, onions, and tomatoes. It’s baked until the crust is crispy, and every bite is packed with flavors of the sea. Lampuki season is typically from late August to November, so try it during these months to get the freshest catch.
Fine Dining in Malta
Ta’ Kris, Sliema
For a cozy, home-cooked feel in a fine dining setting, try Ta’ Kris in Sliema. The restaurant serves Maltese classics like rabbit stew and bragioli, but with a high-end twist. It’s located in an old bakery, giving it a charming rustic vibe.
Patakka, Valletta
Patakka is located in the heart of Valletta and offers a modern take on traditional Maltese dishes. Their menu is seasonal, relying heavily on fresh local produce and seafood. It’s a bit more upscale but worth it if you’re celebrating a special occasion.
The Medina, Mdina
Set in the medieval city of Mdina, this restaurant is perfect if you’re in the mood for a more refined dining experience. The Medina serves creative Mediterranean dishes, often with a Maltese twist. Dining here feels like stepping back in time, thanks to its beautiful historical setting.
Wine and Drinks
Malta may not be known worldwide for its wines, but its local vineyards produce some excellent varieties. Try a glass of Gellewza red or a crisp local white wine. If you prefer beer, Cisk is Malta’s national beer, and it’s light and refreshing, perfect for a hot summer day.
Where to Get Dessert
Cannoli
You don’t have to go to Sicily to get good cannoli. Malta has nailed this Italian treat. Filled with a creamy ricotta mixture and sprinkled with nuts or chocolate chips, Maltese cannoli are the perfect sweet bite.
Kannoli ta’l-Irkotta
Another Maltese dessert worth trying is Kannoli ta’l-Irkotta. Similar to the Italian cannoli, this is packed with fresh ricotta and finished off with powdered sugar. You’ll find these in bakeries or served as a dessert in some restaurants.
What to Expect When Dining in Malta
Maltese people are known for their hospitality, and you’ll typically find smiles and warm welcomes at most restaurants. Don’t expect overly fancy service—Maltese dining is often laid back and casual, even in upscale places. Tipping isn’t obligatory but leaving 10% of the bill is appreciated for great service.
Whether you explore local markets or sit down at a high-end restaurant, you’re in for an incredible culinary adventure in Malta. Just be sure to come hungry!
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