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Malta · tool

Malta food guide

Signature dishes, best food neighborhoods, and the dining etiquette that actually matters — all specific to Malta.

Photo by CALIN STAN on Unsplash

What to eat in Malta

6 signature dishes, 4 food-forward neighborhoods, and the etiquette you actually need to know.

Must-try dishes

Fenek

$15–$25

Rabbit is Malta's national dish, prepared in various ways. Try it fried with garlic and herbs (stuffat tal-fenek) or in a rich stew (Fenek moqli).

Where to try: Traditional restaurants across the island, particularly in rural villages.

Pastizzi

$0.5–$1.5

Flaky, diamond-shaped pastries filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas. These savoury snacks are a ubiquitous and affordable Maltese treat.

Where to try: Street vendors and pastizzerias throughout Malta, especially around Valletta and Sliema.

Lampuki Pie

$12–$20

A savoury pie made with dorado fish (lampuki), vegetables like spinach, cauliflower, and tomatoes, often seasoned with herbs and olives. Best enjoyed when lampuki are in season (autumn).

Where to try: Local eateries and markets during the autumn fishing season.

Bragioli

$18–$30

Thin slices of beef, typically flank steak, rolled and stuffed with bacon, hard-boiled eggs, and herbs, then braised in a rich tomato and wine sauce. Also known as Maltese roulade.

Where to try: Traditional Maltese restaurants, often found in Valletta and the Three Cities.

Ftira

$5–$10

A traditional Maltese sourdough bread, often served as a sandwich with a variety of fillings such as tuna, capers, olives, and tomatoes. The Gozitan ftira is particularly famous.

Where to try: Bakeries and casual eateries, especially in Gozo and coastal areas.

Imqaret

$1–$2

Deep-fried pastries filled with dates, often flavored with aniseed and citrus zest. A sweet, sticky treat commonly sold by street vendors.

Where to try: Street stalls and markets, particularly in Valletta.

Where locals eat — best neighborhoods

Valletta

Historic and elegant, with a mix of traditional eateries and contemporary restaurants.

Fine diningHistoric ambianceCultural immersion

Sliema

Bustling and modern, offering a wide range of international and local cuisine along the promenade.

SeafoodInternational cuisineCasual dining

Marsaxlokk

Picturesque fishing village famous for its fresh seafood and colourful boats.

Fresh seafoodScenic viewsLocal markets

Rabat (Malta)

Authentic and less touristy, offering a glimpse into traditional Maltese life and cuisine.

Traditional Maltese foodLocal atmosphereHistorical sites

Dietary notes

Maltese cuisine is traditionally meat and fish-heavy, with rabbit and seafood being staples. Vegetarian options are becoming more available, particularly in tourist areas, often featuring local vegetables and cheeses. Gluten-free options can be found, but cross-contamination is a possibility in traditional kitchens.

Local etiquette

•Tipping is not mandatory but is appreciated for excellent service, usually around 5-10% in restaurants.
•Cash is still widely used, especially in smaller establishments and markets, though card payments are common in larger hotels and shops.
•Reservations are recommended for popular restaurants, especially on weekend evenings.
•Dinner is typically eaten later, between 8 PM and 10 PM, though many places cater to earlier diners.

Plan the rest of your Malta trip

Full itinerary →Budget Day trips

Food guides elsewhere

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