Malta’s culinary scene is as diverse as its islands. With influences from the Middle East, North Africa, Italy, and Spain, Maltese cuisine can satisfy every palate. Aleteia calls Malta “a crossroads of Mediterranean civilizations”, with it being strategically located along important trade routes in the area. Malta’s spirituality and various historical transitions are also highlighted in its unique cuisine, and local restaurants and family tables all play a part in preserving these through the years.
The people have long enjoyed incorporating a variety of spices, fruit, and other fresh ingredients into their cooking. And although they’re known for rich delicacies, that’s not all there is to Maltese cuisine! Traveling through Malta as a vegan is surprisingly easy, as the island has a wide variety of dishes to offer. So whether you’re looking for a taste of the past or an exciting new dish, here are five restaurants in Malta that will provide a healthy and heavenly meal.
1. YUE Bistro by Munchies
Located in the gorgeous town of Naxxar, YUE Bistro by Munchies fuses the best modern Mediterranean cuisine and healthy dining. Those with vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or other specific diets will be happy to find that they offer extensive customization choices for their various dishes. Furthermore, their menu is designed by professional nutritionists and served by knowledgeable staff, so you’re sure to get a fantastic gastro experience. YUE Bistro was also selected for Traveler’s Choice 2022, so it’s definitely a win in our book!
2. Two Buoys Bistro
If you’re one for a great atmosphere, Two Buoys Bistro Malta is a beautiful restaurant set on the docks overlooking Spinola Bay – perfect for a picturesque brunch, lunch, or dinner. They proudly serve cuisine that represents ‘Melbourne meets Malta’, as well as Mediterranean, European, and Fusion. Love Holidays’ feature on Malta’s great food scene also highlights Two Buoys’s separate vegan and vegetarian menu with some ten or so choices, which is quite extensive. Customers have recommended their Sweet Potato Fries, Curried Cauliflower Gyros, Truffle and Vegan Parmesan Risotto, and Soy or Rice Ice Cream for dessert.
3. Serkin Crystal Palace
Serkin Crystal Palace is a cafe and fast food place that is easily accessible for breakfast, lunch, and late-night meals. If you’re on the hunt for Maltese food, Serkin Crystal Palace is home to traditional pastizzi and some of the best dishes in Rabat. Their specialty pastizzi are served fresh out of the oven and are warm and comforting. The traditional curried peas filling can be your new go-to, and the staff from Crystal Palace assures vegan customers that there is no egg wash, dairy, or lard in their pea pastizzi. We also love their affordable prices and wide range of vegetarian dishes.
4. JAVA Breakfast & Brunch
Choosing from JAVA Breakfast & Brunch fresh array of juices, breakfast bowls, baguettes, salads, and coffee is a great way to start the day. The Malta Food Blog highly recommends Java’s smoothie bowls and their avocado toast, which are both popular among tourists and locals alike. Lighter and healthier meals are recommended before hitting the beach, so it’s good that JAVA offers a wide selection of these. They also offer delivery services in case you want to enjoy your meal in the comforts of your hotel room, staycation-style.
5. Amami
Finally, we have Amami, which is located on Marfa Road overlooking the sea. Inspired by the Goddess of creation, Mimikyu, Amami transformed an array of Asian dishes into an array of robata-grilled creations of their own. If you want to take a break from traditional Malta cuisine, Amami offers unique vegan dishes like Vietnamese Spring Rolls, Tempura Portobello Mushrooms, Crispy Vegetable Gyoza, and Zucchini Skewers in Teriyaki Sauce. Because their menu is Japanese-inspired, you’re sure to get fresh ingredients and healthy meals.
Food Adventures in Malta
These are just five of the hundreds of restaurants in Malta. Fortunately, you don’t have to sacrifice health for taste, as plenty of them offer vegan, vegetarian, and gluten-free choices. We wish you luck in your food adventures in Malta!
