Six Ways to Taste Malta, From Pastizzi to a Michelin Star
Bakeries, a restored market, an olive press under Mdina's walls and a Gozo cheese trail: Malta through its food.
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The quickest way into a place is through its kitchen, and Malta has been cooking for centuries. The Malta Tourism Authority has gathered six experiences across Malta and Gozo that tell the islands’ story through bakeries, markets, farms and fine dining. These are our picks.
1. Pastizzi in Rabat
Start the way the Maltese do, with pastizzi, the flaky pastries filled with ricotta or mushy peas. Is-Serkin, also known as Crystal Palace, is the long standing favourite, with Ta’ Doni nearby. Along the way look for ftira, the traditional Maltese bread, and imqaret, date filled pastries.
2. Is-Suq tal-Belt, Valletta
In the heart of the capital, a historic covered market has been restored into a food hall serving Maltese and international dishes under one roof. Relaxed, lively and ideal for groups.
3. Olive oil beneath Mdina
Through Malta Rural Tours, visit the Tal-Kanċillier olive press below Mdina’s bastions for an introduction to local olive growing, then a guided tasting of extra virgin olive oil with freshly baked Maltese bread. In harvest season you may see the olives being pressed.
4. Lampuki in Marsaxlokk
The fishing village of colourful luzzu boats is the place for lampuki, the local fish caught from late summer into autumn. Ir-Rizzu Restaurant has served lampuki carpaccio and Torta tal-Lampuki, the traditional fish pie, subject to the season.
5. de Mondion, Mdina
Set high on the fortifications inside The Xara Palace, de Mondion retained its Michelin star in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide. Chef Clint Grech cooks contemporary Mediterranean dishes with seasonal ingredients and views across the island. Book ahead.
6. Cheese on Gozo
On the sister island, Magro Food Village offers a complimentary guided visit taking in its food production, a cheesemaking centre and the Savina Artisan Centre. Taste ġbejniet, the little Maltese cheeselets, and irkotta, the local ricotta. Advance booking is required.
Plan your visit at visitmalta.com.