What to Eat in Valletta? 

Malta’s capital – Valletta – is host to some of the islands’ best eateries. From small, charming cafes to Michelin-approved restaurants, it’s safe to say that Valletta is a foodie heaven. 

The restaurants themselves are as diverse as Malta’s cuisine. Many of them aim to bolster traditional Maltese cuisine by serving local dishes such as rabbit stew, fish, kapunata (ratatouille) and timpana (baked macaroni pie). Others draw inspiration from neighbouring countries such as Italy, North Africa and the Middle East, creating an eclectic gastronomical mix that doesn’t disappoint.

Don’t know where or what to eat while staying in Valletta? Here’s a rundown of the best eateries and dishes in Valletta. 

Caffe Cordina 

Founded in 1837, Caffe Cordina is a Valletta institution. Nowadays, it’s a prestigious coffee shop that’s located in the heart of the city. Its opulent and Italian-style interior is the perfect representation of an authentic Mediterranean holiday. The cafe is known for its homemade sweets and pastries. So, next time you’re in Malta, be sure to grab a coffee, some pastizzi (traditional pastry with ricotta or mushy peas filling) and an assortment of traditional Maltese sweets.

Legligin

This concept restaurant is famous for the fact that it doesn’t offer an a la carte menu. Strada Santa Lucia’s Legligin takes pride in its scrumptious €26 per person tasting menu, which features a selection of seven small courses of Maltese and Mediterranean dishes. The food is unpretentious and authentically Mediterranean – two elements that make this restaurant such a popular spot. 

Zero Sei Trattoria Romana &  Sotto Pizzeria

Ditch the hustle and bustle of Rome, and go straight to Valletta’s Zero Sei Trattoria Romana for an equally authentic Roman experience. This restaurant specialises in Roman dishes such as Amatriciana and Cacio e Pepe – and believe us, the dishes are definitely worth the visit! What’s more – the other eatery – Sotto Pizzeria – is an underground gem that specialises in Roman-style pizza made with authentic, fresh ingredients. Special recommendations include the Margherita con bufala, the cacio e pepe and the special Sotto pizza. 

Trabuxu Bistro

Trabuxu’s success is mostly due to Krista and Kris Fenech Soler’s passion for excellent service and quality food, as well as their detail-oriented philosophy. The restaurant puts a special emphasis on sourcing seasonal ingredients and has a selective menu that features Maltese staples such as pasta, meat and fresh fish. 

Nenu the Artisan Baker

Nenu the Artisan Baker is popular with locals and tourists alike, as it offers a glimpse into the daily life of the Maltese. It’s a nostalgic blend of traditional Maltese dishes, memorabilia, historic references and an interactive server approach. It’s safe to say that Nenu is more than just an eatery – it’s a meeting place. Furthermore, the eatery takes pride in its 100-year old stone oven, which is used to cook their famous Maltese ftira (a ring-shaped, leavened, traditionally Maltese type of bread). Other Maltese favourites include rabbit liver, the Maltese pork stew and beef olives.