Tartarun is a more refined seafood restaurant

N35°50.476' E14°32.707' this restaurant is located on the harbourside of the small fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Unlike other restaurants, it has no terrace on the quay, only one unattractive table outside. However, inside it is lovely and Tartarun offers a more sophisticated take on fish. Run by the Schiavone family for more than a decade, son James treats its guests to a daily selection of local seafood. Carnivores are catered for too and their 150-plus wine list is renowned locally.

In October 2021, we ordered the seared swordfish, cucumber relish, garum & ginger oil (€8.90) and crostina of toasted sourdough focaccia, anchovies, tomato & parmesan (€8.90) as starters at this Michelin Guide restaurant (no stars or Bib Gourmand). Especially the swordfish had delicate flavours. Very good starters. As main courses, we ordered the catch of the day, which slipped out of the waiter’s hands and would not be caught a second time, and the calamari. The fish was excellent prepared and full of flavours. The Gran Cavalier Savignon Blanc white wine was a very good accompaniment to the dishes (€27). Nice to experience that the island of Gozo can make excellent white wines. For dessert, we enjoyed the ricotta cake (€7.50) and the apple terrine (€7.50).

The service was personal and attentive. After the fish slipped out of the waiter’s hands, he accidentally started preparing the wrong fish for our table. He soon discovered his mistake.

Tartarun is a more sophisticated seafood restaurant to enjoy well-prepared dishes. Recommended.