How to eat your way around the islands of Malta like a pro

Malta’s cuisine plays a crucial role in narrating the island’s fascinating history, embodying a blend of influences that have shaped this diverse archipelago. Each dish here offers a glimpse into the country’s culinary heritage, drawing from inspirations spanning Italy, North Africa, the Middle East, and beyond.

Malta’s breathtaking landscapes, paired with 300 days of sunshine, are a recipe for exceptional produce as well as exceptional wine, with many of the island’s local restaurants proudly showcasing these flavours and quality.

Malta uncorked

Malta is fast becoming one of Europe’s most promising up-and-coming wine regions despite being the smallest independent wine-producing country in the world. The topography of this sun-kissed country, paired with its gentle sea breeze, creates the perfect conditions for producing wine.

One of the best ways to get to know it is by visiting one or more of the many vineyards scattered around the country. San Niklaw Estate is located in the south east, with roots dating back to the 17th Century. They offer wine tasting alongside a journey through Maltese history, heritage and tradition. There’s also Marsovin Ramla Valley Estate in the hills of Gozo, the 100-year-old winery Marnisi Estate, and Markus Divinus in Dingli, which is where you’ll also find some of Malta’s most picturesque scenery.

The finest, freshest produce

The Maltese people hold their local cuisine in high regard, and rightfully so. Each dish is a testament to the fusion of cultures that have left their mark on the island over centuries. Despite its proximity to Italy, many of Malta’s dishes actually draw inspiration from Provençal cooking techniques, a subtle nod to the influence of the Knights of St. John on the Maltese Islands.

Malta has many local dishes, but Pastizzi is perhaps the most famous snack, a flaky pastry filled with ricotta cheese or mushy peas, as well as anchovy and Nutella, which are newer varieties on the scene. There’s also Lampuki pie – a fish pie made with vegetables – ftira biż-żejt (Maltese bread), rabbit stew and many more.

But Malta’s mouthwatering Mediterranean cuisine is really thanks to the high-quality produce caught or grown around…