Food & Drink in Valletta

In recent years, Valletta has undergone a culinary revolution. In addition to traditional Maltese eateries, there are now innovative restaurants, rooftop bars, and specialty coffee shops, making the capital a true foodie destination.

Traditional & Maltese

In Valletta's side streets, you can still find authentic Maltese cuisine at affordable prices. Look for Kazin (clubhouses that function as inexpensive restaurants) or small eateries in Merchants Street and the cross streets. Typical dishes: Fenek (rabbit) stewed in wine, Braġioli (beef roulades), Soppa tal-Armla (widow's soup with goat cheese), and of course Pastizzi—available everywhere for under a euro.

Modern & Upscale

The streets around Old Bakery Street (Triq l-Ifran) and St. Lucia Street have developed into the culinary epicenter. Here you will find restaurants that combine Maltese tradition with Mediterranean innovation. Reservations recommended on weekends. The waterfront beneath the bastions offers upscale restaurants with harbor views—especially atmospheric in the evenings.

Cafés & Bars

Valletta's café scene is surprisingly lively. Specialty coffee has taken over the capital—besides traditional Maltese cafés, there are now third-wave roasteries. In the evenings, many venues transform into wine bars and cocktail bars. Strait Street (Triq id-Dejqa), once notorious as the "sin street" of British sailors, is now Valletta's coolest nightlife area with jazz clubs, bars, and restaurants in historic vaults.