Malta

Set in one of the old Mdina's windy alleys, the Medina Restaurant brings guests a selection of local Maltese (with some French and Italian) dishes in an enchanting, romantic setting. Service is above par, and seating is offered in an airy, majestic outdoor space.

If you eventually venture out to the island of Gozo, do consider dining in one of the finest establishments there, Tmun. Nestled behind a row of colourful fishing boats in the fishing village of Mgarr, Tmun is a family-run restaurant which has been in operation for over 30 years. Its marine-themed interior perfectly complements the overwhelming seafood variety on the menu, often inspired by the freshest fish caught that day. Favourites among diners include prawn tartare, fish soup, and crispy panko tempura monkfish.

Perched on the cliffs of Dingli, the elegant and modern restaurant, The Cliffs offers an unforgettable dining experience on the highest point of the Maltese Islands. From its beautiful and airy terrace, guests can indulge in a meal accompanied by incredible views of the sunset over green valleys and the blue sea. The food served at The Cliffs is a testament to the rich culinary traditions of the Mediterranean, as it skillfully incorporates locally-sourced and fresh ingredients. Embracing the heritage of the region, the restaurant preserves the use of wild edible plants, a practice fading away in the surrounding rural village of Dingli. Most dishes served here pay homage to traditional aspects that are either lost or at the brink of being forgotten, making The Cliffs a place of both culinary delight and cultural significance.

D’Office Bistro offers a delightful dining experience with its menu of artfully presented Mediterranean and European dishes. As diners await their orders, they can admire the restaurant's unique interior adorned with collectables and curiosities. The dishes, prepared with the very best ingredients from the Mediterranean, showcase the culinary excellence of the region. To complement the flavours, D’Office also serves the finest Maltese vine.

Blue Elephant, an award-winning restaurant in Malta, offers an enchanting dining experience directly by the harbour, with some seating overlooking the shipyard. The restaurant is designed like a traditional Thai village, transporting guests to an oasis of waterfalls, lush greenery, and vibrant colours. Delight in the authentic flavours of Thai cuisine, from dim sum to sweet and sour emerald chicken, while sipping on Mai Tais and enjoying the picturesque view of the marina.

Hidden away in one of the small alleys of the ancient Mdina is the fine dining Bacchus Restaurant. Under historic vaults, traditional Maltese and Mediterranean dishes are served. There is a "secret garden" on the rooftop terrace, where most diners head during the summer months.

Discover culinary excellence at Zest, Malta's first Asian fusion restaurant. Book a table overlooking the romantic Spinola Bay and relish the finest Asian and Japanese-Peruvian Nikkei cuisine on the Maltese Islands.

Trattoria da Pippo, a charming and rustic restaurant located in Valletta's city centre, has been a favourite among locals for almost 40 years. Open exclusively for lunch, it offers the perfect spot for a mid-day break during a sightseeing tour of the Maltese capital. Unlike traditional menus, da Pippo prides itself on sourcing the freshest ingredients daily, allowing the chef to create a variety of Italian and European dishes for that afternoon's service. From local meat cuts to freshly caught fish, shellfish, and crustaceans, their cuisine bursts with flavours and is cooked to perfection. Advanced booking is highly recommended.

If you want to be close to some of the island's busiest nightlife venues, Hugo's Lounge is the right spot for you. In the heart of Paceville, the party area in St Julian's, lies the Asian fusion restaurant and bar Hugo's Lounge. The menu features sushi, Indian, and Thai food, plus an assortment of expertly-crafted cocktails.