Top 15 Must-Try Dishes in Valletta

Constructed in the 16th century by the Knights of St. John, Valletta's winding streets and golden-hued buildings transport visitors through time. This city beautifully blends the past with the present, especially evident in its culinary offerings. Maltese cuisine is hearty and embodies the land and its diverse inhabitants.

You’ll have such a great time on our European cruises that you might forget to plan your day in Malta. Don’t worry; we’ve prepared this guide to the best dishes to savor in Valletta. Be sure to sample at least one for a truly authentic Maltese experience.

1. Brungiel Mimli

This dish of stuffed eggplant demonstrates that vegetables can be delicious. The traditional filling features a blend of ground meat and grated cheese, along with onions, garlic, and mint. Brushing the eggplant with olive oil before baking helps it achieve a perfectly crisp texture.

2. Bragioli

Bragioli is a beloved Maltese dish found throughout the island, including in Valletta. It begins with a flavorful filling made from breadcrumbs, bacon, hard-boiled eggs, parsley, and grated carrot, which is spread onto thin beef slices that are rolled up like stuffed grape leaves before being braised in a rich tomato sauce.

3. Helwa tat-Tork

You won't have to search far to satisfy your sweet cravings when you cruise to Valletta, especially during the festive season. Helwa tat-Tork is a traditional treat that features a delightful mix of nuts and vanilla, available in bite-sized pieces of sweet, crumbly goodness.

4. Hobz Biz-zejt

Maltese bread stands out on its own, and one of the best ways to enjoy it is from street vendors. Hobz biz-zejt is quite popular, making it easy to find. This sliced bread is generously drizzled with extra virgin olive oil, and topped with tomato paste, tuna, and capers, transforming this quick snack into a satisfying light lunch.

5. Kapunata

Travel anywhere in the Mediterranean, and you won't have to look hard to find some variation of ratatouille. Malta’s take on this beloved vegetarian dish includes an abundance of eggplant, bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, olives, and capers. You can enjoy it served hot or cold, but be sure to have a slice of bread on hand to soak up the flavorful sauce.

6. Imqaret

If you spend enough time in one of Valletta’s bakeries, you'll quickly realize how beloved pastries are in the area. Imqaret is a delightful sweet treat made of fried pastry dough filled with a generous layer of date paste. Despite its straightforwardness, this delicacy can satisfy your sweet tooth without ruining your appetite for dinner.

7. Imquarrun il-Forn

Due to its close ties with Italy, you’ll frequently discover Italian-inspired cuisine throughout Malta. This macaroni and cheese dish is a perfect example. It deserves a place on the must-try list in Valletta for its rich, creamy cheese sauce blended with pasta. The casserole is baked just long enough to meld the flavors together and achieve a golden crust on top.

8. Kannoli

In Valletta, kannoli resemble the beloved pastries found in Sicily and other regions. Don’t miss the chance to try the Maltese variation of these crispy fried pastry tubes filled with indulgent fillings. You’ll find classic ricotta as well as delightful options infused with chocolate, cherries, citrus, and nuts.

9. Torta tal-Lampuki (Lumpuki Pie)

Lampuka, also known as Mahi-mahi in other regions, is a type of dolphin fish that’s highly sought after during its fishing season, which spans from mid-August to the end of December. You’ll often find it featured in a savory pie, accompanied by a mix of spinach, black olives, onions, and capers.

10. Pastizzi

While you wander through the charming streets of Valletta, you’re bound to work up an appetite. For a quick bite without committing to a full meal, grab some pastizzi, a local street food favorite. These delightful pastries are filled with either creamy ricotta cheese or savory pea paste, perfect for keeping you satisfied until you return to your ship.

11. Soppa tal-Armla (Widow’s Soup)

Soppa tal-Armla is a beloved traditional dish in Malta, often adapted by each family to their taste. The highlight of this hearty soup is gbejna cheese, a local goat cheese that pairs beautifully with cauliflower. You might also come across variations that include potatoes, carrots, garlic, and peas, but don’t forget to ensure your bowl is topped with a cheese ball.

12. Spinach and Tuna Pie

The spinach and tuna pie is a cherished dish throughout Malta, particularly popular during Lent. Its flaky pastry envelops a flavorful mixture of fish and vegetables seasoned with onions, anchovies, olives, and garlic. Follow the locals' lead and enjoy a slice alongside a warm cup of tea.

13. Spaghetti Rizzi (Spaghetti with Sea Urchins)

While Valletta offers breathtaking vistas of the Mediterranean Sea, you can also savor its flavors in this delightful Maltese pasta dish. The sauce, made from a mix of sea urchin roe, lemon juice, olive oil, parsley, and onions, envelops the pasta in a light and zesty taste. It's a dish you might even attempt to recreate at home—if you're lucky enough to find fresh sea urchin.

14. Stuffat Tal-Fenek (Rabbit Stew)

As Malta's national dish, Stuffat Tal-Fenek has a rich history dating back to the era of the Knights of St. John. This traditional recipe showcases the island's fresh vegetables and herbs, including tomatoes, onions, bay leaves, garlic, and cloves. This hearty and flavorful stew embodies the essence of Malta and is an experience you won't want to miss.

15. Zalzett Malti (Homemade Sausages)

Homemade Maltese sausages are a flavorful delight. Infused with hearty amounts of crunchy sea salt, black peppercorns, coriander seeds, parsley, and garlic, these sausages feature prominently in various local dishes. Enjoy them sliced as an antipasto or piled onto bread with sun-dried tomatoes for a delicious treat.

Dining in Valletta, Malta, can be as thrilling and culturally enriching as visiting historic landmarks or shopping in the city's vibrant areas. From delightful sweets, pastries, and breads to savory offerings like sea urchin, sausage, fish, and rabbit stew, Valletta offers a culinary adventure that will enhance the wonderful memories of tasty dishes you'll experience on your European Dinogo cruise.