Need to know where to go in Valletta? Here are some of the locals' favourite new hotspots to grab a bite, drink, or both.
Everyone is talking about this gem of a restaurant at the end of Republic Street. This is where the foodies-in-the-know are planting themselves these days, enjoying reinterpreted dishes from Malta and the Mediterranean with a touch of classic French cuisine. The atmosphere is cheerful within an elegantly paired-down design with nuances of old Valletta.
Located within a luxurious boutique hotel designed by the illustrious Chris Briffa Architects with Chef Andrew Borg at the helm, this fine dining restaurant promises to offer patrons a distinctive gastronomic experience. With an emphasis on using the freshest produce, the menu changes weekly, combining cultures and methods into dishes which express the Chef's passion for flavours, together with his mastery of techniques.
Here, you'll find great wine and small eats. A reference point for wine-lovers and enthusiasts of all levels, Cru offers an exclusive selection of wines, focusing on undervalued and affordable bottles together with coveted classics from world-renowned wineries. The tapas-style menu combines fresh local produce with foreign delicacies of "premium quality with a local twist".
Here's a modern re-interpretation of the traditional small, Mediterranean coffee bar, serving a variety of snacks and salads for a quick bite in between meetings or a sumptuous treat on-the-go. Housed in an old and classic Valletta bar, Frascati focuses on their quality of coffee, offering various types.
Take a seat on the street and enjoy some incredible Thai flavours within the historical capital city. With the ‘sharing is caring’ concept behind this ramen and Thai restaurant, the goal is to offer patrons a more refined and healthier version of renowned favourites. Beer lovers are in luck here, with unique craft and a variety of Belgian beer - perfect for complimenting the Asian fare.
Old Bakery's Kitchen
This little cafe-style restaurant is great for casual meals from a small menu, which offers gourmet burgers, pasta and pizza. The pizza is made fresh in a pizza oven right in front of customers, and they only use fresh egg pasta. It's the quaint little eatery you want when exploring the city's charming streets.
This recently opened fine dining restaurant on Valletta's main street has been getting rave reviews from local foodies, and it's easy to see why! The fine dining experience offers a menu rife with gastronomic delights crafted by Executive chef & co-owner Maria Sammut, within elegant surroundings. If you're after a true taste of luxury in the city, it's certainly one to try.
Opening its doors once more after half a century of neglect, this restored gem harks back to the heady days of Strait Street's shady past! From the drinks on offer to the authentic decor, it's easy to see why its fast become a popular haunt in the city.
"Fiery to taste and gorgeous to look at" is how Carcass - The City Bar describes itself. As with most Valletta hubs, the space has seen various reincarnations throughout the years, yet this one has been in the same family for four generations. Located on Strait Street, Malta's oldest revelry quarters in the heart of the city, Carcass takes bartending seriously, promising to offer patrons a happening experience.
With an aim to become the "best cocktail bar in Malta", the most recent on the list is Alchemy. Opening its doors this month, the stylish cocktail bar is the latest of the establishments to open forming part of The Gut - the old red light district of Valletta and now a high-end Gastro-Retail project. We can't wait to sample their alchemy!