Different cuisines to try whilst in Malta

It’s safe to say that food forms an integral part of Maltese culture. While Maltese cuisine itself has been heavily influenced by Italy, North Africa and the Middle East, France, Spain and Britain, increasing globalisation resulted in an even wider range of cuisines and accompanying restaurants present on the islands. 

Italian

Italian cuisine is characterised by the simplicity of its dishes. Many dishes are composed of two to four ingredients – however, this doesn’t mean that Italian dishes are bland. Quite the opposite! The secret lies in subtly spicing and seasoning food – transforming simple ingredients into mouth-watering specialities that will keep you coming back for more!

Italian or Italian-inspired restaurants are extremely popular in Malta. Sotto Pizzeria, Zero Sei Trattoria Romana, Pastaus, Papannis and Storie & Sapori are four eateries that genuinely show what traditional Italian gastronomy is all about.

Lebanese 

Lebanese cuisine centres around whole grains, vegetables, fruits, fish, seafood, poultry…and lots of garlic, olive oil and lemon juice! Regional staples such as falafel, shawarma and baba ghanouj have travelled far and wide, and can now be found in Lebanese restaurants and ethnic markets around the globe. 

Malta is no exception. Places like Ali Baba, Byblos Lebanese Restaurant and Al Sultan Lebanese Restaurant have quickly made their mark on the tiny Mediterranean isle and are perfect for both a quick snack and a lavish meal.

Indian

The varying terrains, climates, ethnic groups, cultures and religions that dot the great landmass that is India have led to countless different local cuisines that are collectively referred to as “Indian cuisine”.

This subcontinent’s cuisine is heavily characterised by the clever use of spices and herbs, and the use of tropical fruits and veggies such as Guava and chillies.

Malta’s Indian restaurants have managed to adapt the traditional sub-continental cuisine for the European market. Restaurants such as TukTuk, New Madras, House of Spice and Emperor of India have some of the most flavoursome dishes on the islands. 

Chinese

Chinese cuisine has become a global phenomenon since you always manage to find a Chinese restaurant, wherever you may be in the world. Thanks to the Chinese diaspora, Chinese staples such as soy sauce, Chinese broccoli, noodles and tofu, as well as utensils such as the wok and chopstick, can now be purchased and enjoyed worldwide.  

If you’re craving Chinese food whilst in Malta, you can rest assured that there are a couple of exquisite Chinese restaurants that will satiate your culinary cravings. China House, Peking Restaurant, Shaukiwan Chinese Bar and Restaurant are some of the top Chinese eateries on the islands. 

Japanese

Sushi is probably the first thing that comes to mind when talking about Japanese cuisine. However, Japanese cuisine is so much more! Seafood, rice, soba and udon noodles, pickled and broth-cooked veggies are dish staples; however, Japanese cuisine has evolved to include ingredients and dishes imported from other cultures, such as China’s ramen and gyoza, and the American-influenced California roll.

In the last two decades or so, Japanese cuisine in Malta has experienced a surge in popularity, Nowadays, there are tens of Japanese restaurants to choose from, including favourites such as Okurama, Zen Sushi, Aki & Amami.