Experiencing exotic cuisine is like traveling to faraway lands! If you're in the mood to discover new tastes from around the world, Malta is the perfect place to do so. The island boasts an amazing array of exotic restaurants that you'll want to try. Whether it's Asian fusion, heartwarming Indian, or comforting Tex-Mex, there are plenty of options to choose from. These places offer authentic traditions as well as contemporary interpretations by master chefs. Last but not least, the ambiance varies from cozy eateries to magnificent rooftop restaurants. There's no shortage of options to suit every taste!
So, if you're wondering which exotic restaurants in Malta are worth visiting, simply follow the Tablein guide's recommendations!
ZEST
25, St Georges road, St. Julians
ZEST is not only a fine dining restaurant but also a pillar of Malta's contemporary culinary scene for over two decades now. It was one of the pioneers in introducing Asian cuisine to Malta. However, to keep up with the evolving art of gastronomy, the restaurant's menu has recently been enhanced with the freshest addition of Japanese-inspired Peruvian dishes, known as Nikkei Cuisine. No wonder that ZEST has earned a solid reputation as a local culinary innovator.
Not only does the food leave an impression here, but the ambiance too. Located on the first floor of Hotel Juliani, ZEST features an open-air terrace that overlooks the romantic Spinola Bay. Dining inside? Enjoy the surroundings of an open wine cellar and a sushi bar, allowing you to witness the art of preparing Japanese sushi.
ZEST truly creates an unforgettable dining experience. So, no surprise that it is featured in Michelin's guide and earned a reputation as one of Malta's premier culinary destinations.
Essence of India
Golden Bay, Mellieħa
Essence of India at the Radisson Blu Resort & Spa, Golden Sands, offers a tantalizing fusion of authentic Indian flavours and stunning oh-so-Maltese sea views.
Restaurant‘s menu features an extensive range of traditional Indian dishes, such as mouthwatering soups, expertly prepared tandoori oven specialities, fragrant biryani, and delicious curries. The selection is sure to cater the taste preferences of meat lovers, seafood enthusiasts, as well as vegetarians alike. Let's add generous portions, heartwarming aromas, lively colours, and Maltese charm to make it a perfect dining experience.
Want to enhance your gastronomic journey even more? Set your dining time at Essence of India for sunset to enjoy the perfect scene of nature!
Tex Mex South
MXK1521, Triq Tat Trunciera, Marsaxlokk
Tex Mex South is both a bar and a restaurant that has been offering unforgettable casual dining experiences for over 20 years. As the name suggests, this place invites you to a holiday-like gourmet experience.
Classic Tex-Mex favorites such as Fajitas, Burritos, Enchiladas, Quesadillas, and Nachos, as well as mouth-watering Chicken and Pasta dishes, are served here. Let's add shareable mixed platters, succulent Baby Back Ribs, amazing Fresh Prime Black Angus Reserve Steaks or Gourmet Pure Beef blend Burgers, and the perfect foodie haven is found! The menu is upgraded annually by top chefs, with a focus on quality cuisine.
Tex Mex South is more than just a restaurant. It also has the largest bar and patio area on the Sliema front, with a wide range of drinks from top-shelf spirits to cocktails, beers, shooters, and wines. Their Margarita pitchers are a must-try recommendation! In addition, DJs, animators, and musicians play great tunes most nights, making your time in "Tex Mex South" a fun night out.
Shakinah Indian Gastronomy
11, Ta' Xbiex Seafront, Msida
Dive into unique and innovative dining adventure in the Maltese Islands with Shakinah Indian Gastronomy! This restaurant combines modern and high-end interior design with authentic Indian cuisine, providing a fresh and exciting dining experience. You'll also discover several Instagram-worthy moments, from the trendy and elegant Kashmir Bar to the private dining suite of Goa.
À la carte menu here offers a wide range of classic curries crafted by expert chefs. Sizzling tandoori dishes are served on platters, and freshly baked naan bread complements any selection perfectly. Whether you follow a gluten-free, vegetarian, or vegan diet, Shakinah Indian Gastronomy provides a fantastic range of dishes to select from. Moreover, you won't want to miss the signature dessert menu, developed by famous TV personality, patisserie, and food expert Manuel Xuereb.
For an excellent pairing, indulge in Shakinah Indian Gastronomy‘s unique signature cocktails, created exclusively for the restaurant.
TemptAsian & Lounge 360
AX The Palace, Triq il-Kbira, Sliema
If you're yearning to embark on a culinary adventure through the East, TemptAsian & Lounge 360 is the place to be! Mastered Asian fusion here promises to tantalize your taste buds with an expertly crafted blend of flavors from Thailand, Vietnam, China, Kashmir, Singapore, Indonesia, and India. Restaurant‘s kitchen team specializes in various cuisines and meticulously curates each dish.
The menu at TemptAsian & Lounge 360 offers rich options, from bold meat dishes or delicate fish plates to vegetarian-friendly delicacies. To add more colour and flavour, restaurant also offers a delightful range of sushi. Whatever you choose to indulge in, each choice will radiate distinct taste, aroma, and texture. The mastery of the chefs, combined with the highest quality ingredients sourced from reputable suppliers, surely creates magic in every dish.
This place is especially great for food enthusiasts who appreciate a pleasant atmosphere too. The elegantly lit rooftop of TemptAsian & Lounge 360 creates a calming and romantic ambiance that is perfect for both daily celebrations of life and special occasions.
Indian Harvest
58 Msida Seafront, Msida
Indian Harvest, an Indian restaurant unlike any other, offers a distinctive culinary experience that blends traditional ethnic flavours enhanced by innovative techniques. The focus is on reinventing classic recipes with fresh, locally-sourced ingredients, and presenting them in a contemporary style. The resulting cuisine can be described as India-inspired, infused with Indian Harvest‘s unique touch.
Drawing inspiration from Malabari, North Indian, Arabian, and Mediterranean influences, and enriched with the cultural heritage of Kerala, each dish is a tantalizing adventure in itself that will leave you craving for more. With a vast array of vegetarian and non-vegetarian options featuring seafood, lamb, and beef, as well as sweet and savoury delights, Indian Harvest takes you on a delightful journey. Moreover, all the delectable courses are prepared using natural and organic ingredients, ensuring an authentic experience.
Menu items at restaurants may change, so check here for the latest offerings.