Malta being a small Mediterranean archipelago has some of the best food that we should be so proud of! Our culture boasts of rich food that reflects our heritage shaped by centuries of cultural influences.
From its rustic countryside to its bustling cities, Malta’s food scene is a delightful blend of flavours, offering something for every palate. Whether you’re a fan of fresh seafood, hearty stews, or sweet pastries, Malta’s cuisine is sure to satisfy. Here’s a food guide to Malta covering traditional Maltese dishes and must-try restaurants for an authentic taste of the island.
1. Ħobż biż-Żejt (Maltese Filled Bread)
Often considered Malta’s best sandwich, Ħobż biż-Żejt is a traditional Maltese bread filled with a mix of sun-ripened tomatoes, olive oil, tuna, capers, olives, and sometimes ġbejna which is traditional Maltese cheese. It’s the perfect combination of simple ingredients that melts in your mouth. Whether you enjoy it as a light lunch or an afternoon snack, this dish is a true taste of Maltese comfort food.
2. Fenek (Rabbit Stew)
Rabbit is not a pet for us in Malta – it’s a traditional meat we use to cook as a stew! This hearty rabbit stew is made by slow-cooking the rabbit with garlic, wine, tomatoes, and a variety of herbs. The resulting dish is tender, flavorful, and often served with roasted potatoes or pasta.
3. Bragioli (Beef Olives)
Bragioli, or stuffed beef olives, is another classic Maltese dish that offers a rich and savoury flavour profile. Thin slices of beef are filled with a mixture of minced meat, herbs, and breadcrumbs,and then braised in a rich tomato-based sauce. It’s a comforting, satisfying dish, commonly served with mashed potatoes or vegetables.
4. Kapunata
Kapunata is Malta’s version of ratatouille, a vegetable dish made from eggplant, peppers, tomatoes, onions, and capers. This dish is typically served as a side but can also stand on its own as a vegetarian main course. The vegetables are slowly stewed with olive oil and flavoured with herbs, making it a light yet delicious addition to any meal. It is to die for!
5. Pastizzi
No visit to Malta is complete without trying pastizzi! It’s our everyday traditional snack that you can find anywhere on the islands for a low price. Pastizzi is a flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas. Whether you grab one from a local bakery or enjoy it with a coffee in a café, pastizzi is a must-try snack that embodies Maltese street food culture.
BONUS: End Your Day with Fun at The Eden
After a day of savouring Malta’s incredible flavours, why not top it off with some fun at The Eden? Whether you’re in the mood to relax with a casual activity or keep the excitement going with something more intense, there’s plenty to choose from. Test your problem-solving skills in X-Cube’s digital escape room, show off your aim at Dart Club, or dive into an adrenaline-pumping laser tag match at Delta Strike. If you’re up for some friendly competition, gather your group for a round of bowling at the Superbowl or explore over 100 games at XP Arcade. And for music lovers, Bay Karaoke is the perfect place to belt out your favourite tunes. Whether you’re with friends, family, or coworkers, The Eden is the ideal spot to end your day in Malta on a high note.
Exploring Malta’s food scene is a great way to learn more about Maltese culture, with its rich blend of local flavours and historical influences. From traditional dishes like rabbit stew to street food pastizzi and imqaret, the island offers unforgettable food! Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to rediscover Malta, definitely try out this food guide to Malta that is sure to leave you wanting more!
