Valletta, Malta

Where to Eat and Drink

Maltese cuisine is simply divine. Seasonal produce and local seafood provide the foundation for most dishes, which are often influenced by the island’s neighbouring countries. Bars, as opposed to clubs, are the order of the day. Typical of the Mediterranean lifestyle, the Maltese islanders' approach to life is to enjoy and celebrate it as much as possible. Nightlife on the island is always bustling, and even if the vibrant calendar of events is lean during some periods, there are always scores of clubs to visit, excellent wine bars and first-rate restaurants to try. If clubbing is your thing, the hotspot is in Paceville, on the coast near St Julian's.

In style

Do what the city’s business elite do – indulge in mouth-watering Mediterranean delicacies at Rubino (53 Old Bakery Street, +356 21 224 656). Always busy and set against the backdrop of a whitewashed, stone-vaulted cellar, this is a local gastronomic institution. Try the meze or pasta and rabbit sauce. Zen (Portomaso Marina, +356 21 386 500) in St Julian's is also outstanding. One of the best sushi restaurants in Malta, it offers a contemporary take on traditional sushi and sashimi, as well as unrivalled service.

If drinking is more your thing, check out TwoTwentyTwo (222 Great Siege Road, +356 27 333 222, www.two-twentytwo.com), if only to experience the uber-chic décor and superbly laid-out space. Extensive drink list, ultra fashionable and 'the place to be seen in the Maltese capital. You can also head to Trabuxu (1 Strait Street, +356 21 223 036) if you want to rub shoulders with Valletta’s professionals, actors and musicians. This superb wine bar has an extensive selection of vino, with more than 200 quality wines. 

On a budget

Café Jubilee (125 St. Lucia Street, +356 21 252 332, www.cafejubilee.com) is open until 1am – an exception in Malta. Here you’ll find a pleasant, friendly bar styled with Parisian brasserie with a relaxed, warm ambience.  Appreciators of live music should check out Sacha’s Bar and Bistro (37 South Street). Run by one of Malta’s most revered musicians, its repertoire ranges from jazz, folk and pop to classical. For local DJs and house music, check out Q Bar (Valletta Waterfront, +356 21 223 018).