Quaint Coffee Shops In Malta Worth Visiting

When you visit Malta, you’re going to need a stop off or two for refreshments and rest, and a quaint traditional coffee shop is the perfect place to recharge. Here are some of our favourites!

Café Jubilee in Gozo

Café Jubilee has a truly unmistakably quirky look. You can sip your coffee al fresco in the Pjazza It-Tokk or take in the uniqueness of the interiors. Café Jubilee’s walls are covered with framed posters and adverts from many a bygone day. Above your head, hanging from the celling there are curiosities, so remember to look up!  The menu has a Mediterranean vibe from soups to salads and lots more in-between. Nana’s Ravioli is a must according to its regulars. Many a review describes the “great ambience” and “professional service” such as this one:

“Visited late afternoon and after a very long walk. Very charming waiters and a warm, stylish atmosphere with a hint of class. Service was fast and professional and the food excellent. Good value and a feeling of satisfaction.” SussexGeoffers, February 2019

Caffe Cordina in Valletta

Caffe Cordina was founded back in 1837 and is most probably the most well know café on the islands. Found on Republic Square in the heart of historic Valletta, Caffe Cordina is in fact part of that history as it appears on pretty much every tourist map or guide of Malta that has ever existed. One must however not just see it as a stop off on the tourist trail, as you are guaranteed to find many a local there enjoying the traditional Maltese sweet delicacies that are the family’s specialty. A visit here is not just to a coffee shop, as over the years it has expanded to include a restaurant, tea room, pasticceria, gelateria and a standing coffee bar at its centre. It is in fact a historic wonder in its own right, as inside the unique vaulted ceiling is adorned with paintings by Giuseppe Cali, a truly renowned Maltese painter. These priceless paintings illustrate the many rulers of Malta through its turbulent history. This history is still being told by the Cordina family as they recently commissioned the final three paintings which represent Malta’s independence, the birth of the Republic and the moment when Malta joined the European Union. This stunning décor is set off to perfection by the beautiful chandeliers hanging to delight you as you soak up the atmosphere of this piece of café culture history. As the following review says Caffe Cordina is “worth the hype”.

“Morning coffee in downtown Valletta went significantly up a few levels at Caffe Cordina. Well situated near to Valletta’s CoCathedral, this is sheer elegance. We enjoyed large cappuccinos and simple pastizzi (recommended) surrounded by high ceilings polished mirrors and beautiful crystal chandelier. In the end we simply had to return to afternoon tea and cake outside in the sun (in Feb) where even the buskers are classy.”MullasNasruddin, February 2019

Giorgio’s in Sliema

The is most definitely the most popular coffee shop in Sliema with locals and tourists alike. The coffee is simply amazing – many say that the cappuccino is the creamiest on the island so a must for the coffee lovers out there. The hot chocolate however is not one to be missed either. Giorgio’s is situated perfectly on the harbour front where you can watch the world go by whilst soaking up the sun. Reviews from customers young and old enjoy the stunning harbour views whilst enjoying a drink or a bite to eat from morning till night.

“We have been visiting Sliema over the past 20 years with the highlight of most lazy afternoons, a visit to Giorgios. Today we ordered a chicken Caesar wrap to share. Packed with ingredients and plenty of flavour. Service as always, efficient.” Diane M., February 2019

Fontanella in Mdina

Fontanella is an essential stop on any visit to the medieval town of Mdina as this café has quite the reputation across the islands. Situated on high upon the city’s bastions, it really does offer a view of the island.

The stunning outdoor terrace has views to soak up whilst you ponder the extensive menu. Its main claim to fame however is its sumptuous cakes and sweets. If you are a chocoholic this is not one to be missed. Reviews tell you to “look no further” but obviously make sure you look up from the cake to enjoy the view.

“What a marvellous place! Plenty of choice of seating from inside to covered conservatories to outdoor. It was a beautiful day with extensive views, and it was busy. The service was very efficient and friendly. The sandwiches were very generous in their fillings and the orange and almond cake is a must!” Timsimmonite, February 2019

Crystal Palace Tas-Serkin in Rabat

They call it the shop that never closes and given that it has been around for over 100 years, that really is quite a feat. This traditional little bar on the outskirts of Rabat does indeed hardly ever close so you will almost always be able to indulge in its speciality Pastizzi, small flaky pastry puffs filled with mushy peas or ricotta cheese. Sounds like an acquired taste but please do not allow your taste buds to miss out on this Maltese delicacy, when in Rome as they say. Pastizzi can be enjoyed any time, day or night, and many locals do exactly that as they travel from across the island to enjoy the cheap but tasty food, and the tea served in a glass just like their grandmothers used to serve it with lots of milk. This bar is a little piece of Malta’s social history. The Palace never really sleeps, it just snoozes, as it closes for a mere two hours on weekday nights and on weekends it is open all night long. All the reviews talk of the Pastizzi, so we must conclude that it is the “best pastizzi ever”.

“Recommended by local folks. This is considered to be one of the best places to go for authentic Maltese Pastizzi. Great crunchy Paztizzi with delicious filling inside. Working 24/7 and always have warm and freshly baked Pastizzi. Best is to stop at this place after visiting old city of Mdina and enjoy traditional black tea with milk and Pastizzi! Looking forward to visit this place again onle in Malta.” Nasar S., May 2018

Mint in St.Julians

Mint on the promenade in Sliema is the place to be as soon as the sun rises upon this beautiful island. It offers you fresh, homemade food to feed your body and mind. It is a healthy foodie heaven with vegetarian and vegan options abound. The array of fresh juices and smoothies soothe the soul and gluten free is most definitely mainstream here. “Tasty” is most certainly the watch word so if you are a carnivore please don’t be put off and make sure you give just Mint a try.

“This is a great cafe on the coast and is populate with all. They cook fresh homemade food and the smoothies and juices are delightful. Had an amazing Italian meatball sandwich and a breakfast sandwich, they are huge and really good value. It’s order at the bar but then they bring to your table. Loved this place.” Funinthesun123456789, October 2018

Risette in Valletta

Risette located next to its sister hotel, Casa Ellul, is most a decadent pit-stop for an indulgent breakfast. In stunning modern surroundings just off Old Theatre Street in the heart of Valletta, you can enjoy homemade delicacies with a semi-buffet style breakfast to tempt your taste buds. Homemade fresh pastries, Maltese bread and sweet cakes served with jams, fresh orange juice, and a tantalizing choice of tea and coffee. A hot breakfast is offered through an a la carte menu, and is always cooked fresh to order – so breakfast is something to be contemplated not rushed at Risette. A full English with all the trimmings or Eggs Royale or Benedict the choice is yours. “Mouth-watering” temptations leave customers always coming back for more.

“Such an amazing dining experience. Staff is absolutely great, and the food is simply on another level.The eggs benedict is a must for breakfast.” Nix706, July 2018

You truly are spoilt for choice on Malta and Gozo!