Just a 90 minute ferry ride from Sicily and just north of Tunisia and Libya, this country is small but is a crossroads ofculture and cuisine.
Gozoitan,Paceville, Malta
Gozo is one of the smaller islands in the archipelago that makes up the country of Malta and the restaurants namemeans person from Gozo, The owner hails from Gozo, but opened his restaurant in Paceville, on the bigger islandof Malta, in an area thats known for nightlife. With an open air feel, youre practically dining al fresco. Hint: ask forextra sauce with the bread. Its that good.
Recommended: Fried Gozo cheese, ravjul, rabbit prepared chefs choice. Date pastries and ice cream for dessert.
Ciapetti,Mdina, Malta
This garden restaurant offers a respite from the tourist-laden streets of Mdina. This hideaway is surrounded by stonewalls offers a long menu that transports diners to Italy. Take a long lunch like the locals and be transported into adifferent world. If its too sunny, or overcast, the restaurant will open the umbrellas at each table which offers a lovelycanopy from the sun, or the rain.
Recommended: Butternut squash soup, bragioli, pizza.
Jeffreys,Gharb, Gozo
This local favorite requires a reservation because of the size. The wine racks stand floor to ceiling as if built inclosets. The antique woodwork is finished off with hand-crafted doorknobs. Jefferys offers a dining experience whereyou are so welcome its as if you are sitting in a friends dining room. Part of the charm is that the owners young sonraces to clear each table as patrons leave.
Recommended: Fish soup. Pasta or rabbit order whatever the special of the day is. The chef knows what he isdoing.
A gem (the name escapes me but the lesson is dont judge a book by its cover),Valleta, Malta
This hidden gem is tucked away off a main street in Vallettas bustling port. As you turn the corner down a non-descript alley, taste buds are awakened as one can smell the culinary delights from down the street. There are nomore than eight tables, and each seats no more than four people. Every table has a clear view of the kitchen whichcreates a comfortable at-home feeling.
Recommended: Swordfish carpaccio and pasta.
Ir Rokna, St. Julians, Malta
Ir Rokna is the oldest and, some say, the best pizza on the archipelago. Its hard to dispute these claims. The interiorof the restaurant feels more like a Swiss chalet than a pizzeria. The pizza menu will satisfy nearly every taste withenough variety to satisfy everyone. The restaurant also offers classic pastas and salads if one is not in the mood forpizza. Ask for a corner table by the front window to secure a good people-watching vantage point.
Recommended: Pizza. Pizza. Pizza.
