Nestled in the centre of the baroque city of Valletta, opposite the imposing President’s Palace, sits the restaurant Malata. Boasting a French Chef, it offers a delectable menu of French and Mediterranean specialities exuding the style and taste that is so typical of that country’s lover of fine cuisine.

One can opt to dine on the outside terrace beneath leafy trees and surrounded by historic character, although dining indoors, where the walls are decorated with characterful cartoons of Maltese personalities, has a charm and romance of its own. The terrace also hosts jazz nights with Renzo Spiteri quintet every Tuesday and other popular bands on Friday, and specializes in post-theatre dinners.

Special dishes of the day, which usually include fresh fish, are displayed on a chalkboard near the entrance. The main menu includes goose liver flambéed with calvados, roast quail stuffed with foie gras and served with a port sauce, and frogs’ legs. Six pasta dishes, including vegetarian options, are available in starter or main course portions. Service is friendly and unhurried.

Marks and Spencer and other popular stores are only a few strides away, making Malata an ideal spot to choose to rest the feet during a shopping expedition in the capital city.

Open from Monday to Saturday
Lunch: 12.00pm till 3.00pm
Dinner: 7.00pm till 11.00pm