Guide to Maltese Cuisine

The traditional dishes you absolutely must try

Rotunda of Mosta, iconic domed church in Malta

Maltese cuisine is a delicious blend of Mediterranean, Arab, and British influences.

Pastizzi

Maltese Pastizzi

Flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas, the quintessential Maltese snack. Perfect for breakfast or a break.

Fenkata (Rabbit Stew)

Fenkata

The national dish of Malta, rabbit cooked with wine, garlic, and aromatic herbs. An absolute must for meat-eaters.

Lampuki Pie

Lampuki Pie

Savoury fish pie made with lampuki (Mahi-Mahi) fish, typical of autumn. A seafood delight not to be missed.

Bragioli

Bragioli

Also known as "beef olive rolls," bragioli are beef rolls stuffed with minced meat, eggs, olives, and bacon. They are slow-cooked in a red wine sauce. A rich and substantial dish, typical of Sunday lunches.

Qassatat

Qassatat

Similar to pastizzi, but rounder and larger, Qassatat are filled pastries that can contain a variety of ingredients, from seasoned ricotta to spinach and tuna. They are another staple of Maltese street food.

Ftira

Ftira

A typical Maltese ring-shaped loaf, which is stuffed with a combination of tuna, tomato, capers, olives, onion, mint, and olive oil. It is the quintessential summer snack, perfect for a light lunch on the beach.

Hobz biż-Żejt

Hobz biż-Żejt

Another version of ftira, but simpler: a slice of crusty Maltese bread rubbed with fresh tomato, seasoned with olive oil and topped with tuna, capers, onions, and beans. It is the essence of Maltese flavour in one bite.

Haljotta

Haljotta

A very flavourful fish soup, prepared with rice, garlic, tomatoes, and a variety of fresh fish. It is a light yet flavourful dish, perfect for a nutritious meal on a cooler day.

Imqaret

Imqaret

The must-try dessert in Malta. These are diamond-shaped fritters filled with a spiced date paste. They are fried and often served warm with a scoop of ice cream, perfect for ending a typical meal.

Figolli

Figolli

A traditional Easter dessert, but it can also be found at other times of the year. They are almond paste pastries, often shaped like figures (rabbits, lambs, fish), covered with icing and chocolate. Exquisite and colourful.

Ready to discover the flavours of Malta? Book now

← Back to Blog