A late breakfast or brunch is just what the doctor ordered on a weekend morning, and whether you’re looking for an indulgent treat or a healthy way to start your day, you’re spoiled for choice on the Maltese Islands. Here’s my pick of breakfast and brunch spots, in no particular order.
1. Manouche Craft Bakery & Bistro
It didn’t take Manouche long to establish a strong following – and with good reason. Everything at this spot is handcrafted on site, and while they serve lunch, dinner, and a variety of tempting sweets throughout the day, no list of breakfast places is complete without them. Served between 8am and 3pm, the options are endless – from a healthy house granola bowl to a variety of savoury breakfast treats.
2. Danny's Kitchen & Deli
Chef JP is a master at creating high-quality dishes you wouldn’t expect in this trendy snack bar-style restaurant in Qormi. And while a few of the dishes here have garnered a loyal following since it opened its doors some time ago, the breakfast and brunch options are the true stars of the show. You haven’t lived till you’ve tried Danny’s big toast, comprised of local ham, mature cheddar, buttered, thick cut bread, and a fried egg.
3. Java
This cosy Naxxar spot is dedicated to giving you the best possible start to your day. Java’s extensive breakfast menu’s bound to have something that tickles your fancy; from an interesting bagel selection to a good choice of egg dishes, there’s no way you’re leaving this spot hungry. It’s also super easy enjoy this spot’s delicacies on-the-go, thanks to their expertly curated grazing boxes.
4. The Black Egg
The Black Egg gives your traditional brunch dishes a subtle fancy twist – and boy does It work. Feast on a dish of duck and waffles, garnished with some sweety mustard syrup and a fried egg. Alternatively, keep things somewhat light with The Black Egg’s vegan sourdough, topped with a portobello mushroom, aubergine, spinach, pomegranate, and radish.
5. U Bistrot
The St Julian’s eatery serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, drinks and coffee, and is a favourite spot for a healthy (or not so healthy) brunch. They serve everything from eggs benedict to fluffy, American style pancakes, all overlooking the magnificent Balluta Bay and church. And while you’re there, why not make it a proper bunch and order a couple of mimosas – you won’t regret it!
6. Stanjata
Stanjata brings some universally loved breakfast and brunch dishes to the heart of Birkirkara. The restaurant’s no-frills approach to classics like French toast and the breakfast bun guarantees that you’ll be leaving Stanjata feeling oh-so-satisfied.
7. Crust Bistro & Bar
Run by local celebrity chef Sean Gravina, Crust in St Julian’s packs a real punch for brunch. Offering a number of different options you won’t find in many other places locally, their brunch menu includes a 72-hour beef brisket Sloppy Joe bun, berry waffles, and of course, all the classics.
9. Dr Juice
Dr Juice’s Gzira outlet offers all the delicious juices and smoothies on offer at the chain’s other locations plus a tantalising brunch menu. There’s lots to be tempted by, from a Keto Chorizo Shakshuka and Power Breakfast Bowl for the fitness freaks, to a Scrambled Tofu Toast and Gluten Free Waffle for the hungry vegans out there.
10. Debbie's Café
If you’re headed up north around breakfast time, I’d definitely recommend a stopover at the charming Debbie’s Café in Mellieha. Offering a vast selection of breakfasts, sandwiches, cakes and desserts, it’s begging to be tried, whether you fancy a handsome pancake stack or long for an expertly done full English breakfast.
11. Jacob's Brew Café
Marsascala’s lucky to be home to a spot as iconic as Jacob’s Brew Café. Not only does it serve some delicious-looking treats, but it does so for a good cause. That’s right – Jacob’s Brew Café donataes a percentage of its revenue to its very own NGO, Survivors Malta, which initiates projects to families facing trauma