Dining al fresco is one of life’s simple pleasures. It’s almost a daily possibility in Malta. Choose from internal courtyards to sea-view restaurants and local café-bars.  Find somewhere secluded and romantic, or dine in a busy trattoria.

The Islands’ cuisine is influenced by the people who made their home here over the centuries, from the Arabs, Italians and Spanish to the French and British.  Traditional Maltese cooking has distinct touches of the Sicilian and Moorish.  Look out for rich sweets, pastries and deserts of ricotta, almonds and figs as well as tomato and wine sauces with pasta, rabbit and fish.

Restaurant menus follow the seasons using the best of available fare: from tomatoes, zucchini, herbs and olives to fish like lampuki, a national favourite, swordfish and tuna.

International cuisine is available everywhere.  Most restaurants are influenced by Italian or French cuisine, but there are plenty specialising in Oriental, Tex Mex and other themes. In true Mediterranean style, children are welcome everywhere.