Sliema's Best Restaurants

For those who appreciate dining with a touch of elegance, Terrace Restaurant Sliema, located on Triq Dragunara in San Ġiljan, stands as a beacon of sophisticated Mediterranean cuisine. This is a place where the food speaks for itself, supported by an elegant setting and service that is both attentive and unobtrusive. The menu is a celebration of the Mediterranean's bounty, with a particular emphasis on the freshest seafood and time-honoured Maltese recipes. Dishes like the fresh seafood platters are prepared with a care that elevates the simple ingredients into something memorable. The restaurant has cultivated a loyal following, reflected in its 4.5 out of 5 Google rating from 32 reviews, a testament to its quality-driven approach. Practicality is key here, as the restaurant opens its doors daily at 6:30 AM, making it an ideal spot for early risers seeking a substantial breakfast. For convenience, reservations are accepted, and the space is fully wheelchair accessible, complemented by complimentary WiFi for those who need to stay connected.

If your palate craves the robust, soulful flavours of Italy, Trattoria del Mare on Triq Ix-Xatt is an unmissable destination. This warm and inviting restaurant has built an exceptional reputation, evidenced by its stellar 4.6/5 rating drawn from over 2,400 Google reviews—a figure that speaks volumes about its consistent excellence. The menu is a love letter to Italian classics, with standout dishes that have become local legends. The mussel soup, a perfect blend of briny and savoury, and the seafood pasta with homemade fettuccine, where the pasta is fresh and the sauce is rich with the catch of the day, are not just meals but culinary events. Open daily from noon until 11 PM, it caters perfectly to both lunch and dinner plans. While reservations are recommended due to its popularity, the wait is typically brief, a sign of the restaurant's efficient operation. The attentive staff and superlative service ensure every visit feels special, and the portions are famously generous. The restaurant is wheelchair accessible, and the wine and beer selection is thoughtfully curated to complement every dish.

To truly understand Maltese culture, one must sit down for a meal at Il-Malti, a beloved institution nestled on Sliema's main strip at The Strand. This restaurant has become a cherished spot for those seeking authentic Mediterranean fare that feels both traditional and comforting. The menu is a comprehensive guide to local cuisine, featuring consistently well-prepared traditional Maltese meals that capture the essence of the island's culinary heritage. From hearty meat dishes to fresh seafood, every plate tells a story of Malta's history and its relationship with the Mediterranean. The restaurant is known for its warm hospitality and accommodating service, making it welcoming even for walk-ins. The varied menu also offers excellent vegetarian options, ensuring there's something for every guest. Prices are reasonable, ranging from €15 to £30 per head, reflecting the quality and authenticity of the food. While the lively setting adds to the charm, diners should be aware that the ambient noise from nearby bars is part of the experience, adding to the bustling energy of the area.

The beauty of dining in Sliema is the ease with which you can explore a variety of culinary styles within a short stroll. Take Terrace Restaurant Sliema, for example. Just a 171-metre walk away, you'll find Sotto Pinsa Romana, a specialist in Roman-style pizza. A slightly longer 218-metre stroll brings you to Fratelli La Bufala, celebrated for its buffalo mozzarella and Italian cuisine. Continuing on this gastronomic tour, Numero 10 is 234 metres away, The Chophouse is 322 metres distant, and Opa!, a lively spot for Greek fare, is 333 metres from Terrace Restaurant. This concentration of high-quality establishments means you can plan an evening of culinary hopping or simply choose the mood that suits you. Whether you're in the mood for a refined meal or a casual bite, the proximity of these restaurants allows for spontaneous decisions and a true taste of Sliema's diverse food scene. After your meal, you can easily continue your evening with a drink at the nearby Gourmet Cocktail Bar & Grill, located just 37 metres from Trattoria del Mare.

Venturing slightly off the main thoroughfare reveals more of Sliema's dining character. Storie & Sapori, situated at 152 The Strand in Gżira, is a cherished haunt that has earned a 4.3-star rating from over 2,000 reviews. This warm, family-run restaurant offers authentic Italian cooking where every dish feels like a labor of love. Managed by an Italian family, the restaurant makes guests feel 'welcomed as in a family home,' with fresh, well-seasoned ingredients at the heart of the menu. From handmade pasta to wood-fired pizzas, and hearty seafood dishes to vegetarian and vegan options, the cuisine celebrates Italian classics with passion. The restaurant is open daily until midnight, offering flexibility for late diners, and also provides wheelchair access, reservations, and convenient takeaway and delivery services. For a different kind of experience, Inspirations, located on Giovanni Felice Street in Birkirkara's CBD, has quietly earned a 4.3-star rating from 1,807 diners. It stands out for its celebration of Maltese craftsmanship, with walls adorned by local artisans' work and evenings lit by the soft glow of limestone.

Making the most of Sliema's restaurants requires a little planning, ensuring your culinary adventure is as smooth as it is delicious. For the most popular spots like Trattoria del Mare and Terrace Restaurant Sliema, making a reservation is highly recommended. This not only guarantees you a table but also saves you from waiting, especially during peak hours. When booking, it's worth noting which restaurants are wheelchair accessible, such as Trattoria del Mare, Storie & Sapori, and Terrace Restaurant, to ensure a comfortable visit for everyone in your party. Budgeting is straightforward, with most quality restaurants falling into the ££ category, meaning prices range from €15 to £30 per head. This typically covers a main course, and often includes bread and water, though drinks and desserts are usually extra. For those who need to stay connected, several restaurants, including Terrace Restaurant, offer complimentary WiFi. And for those who prefer to dine in the comfort of their hotel or apartment, many establishments like Storie & Sapori provide convenient takeaway and delivery services.

The restaurants of Sliema collectively tell a story of Malta itself—a place where Mediterranean, Italian, and North African influences converge to create a distinct and delicious identity. Dining here is not just about satisfying hunger; it's about experiencing the island's history and character on a plate. The refined elegance of Terrace Restaurant Sliema reflects Malta's more cosmopolitan, contemporary side, while the rustic authenticity of Il-Malti connects diners to the island's deep-rooted traditions. Meanwhile, the passionate, family-run kitchens of Trattoria del Mare and Storie & Sapori speak to the enduring power of Italian culture in Malta. This diversity is Sliema's greatest strength as a dining destination. You can spend a week here and enjoy a different culinary style every night, each one prepared with skill and served with the warm hospitality that defines Maltese culture. It is this blend of quality, variety, and authenticity that makes Sliema a must-visit for any food-loving traveller.