Michelin Guide
Gastronomy
Michelin star restaurants are known for their exceptional quality, creativity, and attention to detail in both ingredients and presentation. These renowned dining establishments are great for clients seeking exquisite gastronomic experiences on the Maltese islands.
Despite Malta being a relatively small island, it has made its mark on the global culinary map with a growing number of Michelin-starred restaurants. Since 2020, the Maltese gastronomy scene has flourished and now in its fourth year, the guide features 35 restaurants of the highest calibre across Malta and Gozo. This includes six restaurants awarded One Michelin Star and four restaurants awarded a Michelin Bib Gourmand, all of whom have excelled in placing the archipelago as an undiscovered culinary destination.
Michelin Guide
Bahia is located on the first floor of the elegant Corinthia Palace Hotel. The restaurant is named after the prestigious naval orange which is grown in the region, and a preserved orange tree sits at the centre of one of the dining rooms. Sophisticated dishes inspired by various periods in Maltese history, including the Stone Age and Roman times, while 'Future' allows diners to explore new, sometimes daring combinations of flavours in dishes which push boundaries.
ION is renowned for its exceptional culinary creations, blending traditional and contemporary Mediterranean flavours with innovative techniques. Situated on the water's edge, the restaurant offers breathtaking views of the Valletta Grand Harbour.
Fernandõ Gastrotheque is a small, quiet bistro in French style which is informal yet elegant, located in a small street at the back of the lively Sliema with contemporary furnishings and soft background music. The highly talented chef here creates Mediterranean dishes with the occasional international touch and plenty of character, all prepared from the best seasonal ingredients.
****Suggestion for image: Interior of Fernandõ Gastrotheque with contemporary furnishings****
Nestled in the heart of Valletta, Under Grain is celebrated for its intimate atmosphere and refined culinary creations. The restaurant showcases a menu that artfully blends international and Maltese flavors while prioritizing the use of fresh, locally sourced ingredients.
****Suggestion for image: Interior of Under Grain restaurant****
Located within the luxurious Xara Palace Relais & Châteaux in Mdina, De Mondion offers a sophisticated dining experience with breathtaking views. The restaurant focuses on contemporary Mediterranean cuisine, emphasizing local and seasonal ingredients.
****Suggestion for image: View from De Mondion restaurant in Mdina****
ION the Harbour
As mentioned before, restaurateurs can also take home the accolade of a Michelin Plate to proudly display in their window. We have a total of 34 restaurants featured in the Maltese Michelin Guide, and with removing the aforementioned 10 restaurants (6 Michelin Star and 4 Bib Gourmands), there are still another 24 restaurants featuring fresh ingredients and excellently prepared dishes around the archipelago.
****Suggestion for image: Michelin Plate displayed in a restaurant window****
Noni
Whilst Michelin Star restaurants take the top accolade in the Michelin Guide, there are two other lesser-known sections that restaurateurs can aim to achieve. These are the Bib Gourmand or a Michelin Plate. The former of these is there to focus on value dining and to steer away from expensive "fine dining". There’s no set formula for a “Bib” restaurant – they are all unique and can vary greatly from one place to the next. From luxurious restaurants to village pubs, and trendy bistros to street food stands, the Michelin Guide offers something for everyone, for every occasion and in every price bracket. What Bib restaurants do have in common is their simpler style of cooking, which is recognisable and easy-to-eat. A Bib Gourmand restaurant will also leave you with a sense of satisfaction, at having eaten so well at such a reasonable price.
Casual diners can find four Bib Gourmands in Malta; Grain Street and Rubino in the heart of Valletta, Terrone in Birgu (Vittoriosa, the Three Cities), and Commando in Mellieha.
****Suggestion for image: Exterior of one of the Bib Gourmand restaurants****
Situated in Valletta, Malta's capital city, Noni provides a modern and intimate setting. The restaurant prides itself on offering innovative dishes with an emphasis on local produce, traditional flavors, and a touch of international influence.
****Suggestion for image: Interior of Noni restaurant****