Homophobic establishment from our experience. This is a strange one, I wouldn't normally write a review but I kind of feel obliged in this instance. 2 guys coming to dinner, not a straight couple so calling that out up front. We were directed to sit out the back not by the waterfront but got the seat there after sorta directing ourselves towards that so all good. Then the list of calamity started. Firstly 2 other tables sat near us and got their menus (they were all straight, but at this point may have been confidence), and after waiting about 10minutes with waiters kinda continually ignoring us we finally got our menus. It was a weird setup they had one junior girl who took our drinks order but couldn't take our dinner order, strange. The other tables around us were treated well and with attentive service and we were kinda still being ignored. We then went through another ridiculous wait trying to wave someone down to take our orders. We continuing called "excuse me" to staff and they always ignored us. The straight couple behind us always got their attention and they just kept ignoring us, was not happy at this stage. The staff seemed to be having a great time talking to all the tables around us but continually ignoring us. After finally waving down one waiter they disappeared and someone else came about 5mins later, not really getting any continuity here, bit of a joke. The waiter we finally had was a good young waiter from Gozo who helped us, he was excellent. He deserves to work somewhere better I reckon. He brought our drinks and food, the starter was pretty good (octopus salad) but the main calamari was very very dry and sorta small in comparison to some of the other dishes around us. We refilled our own drinks from the bottle and that's ok but a lot of other places would have done that for us, no real problem there. We got our dessert which was a bit of a confused baked Alaska as it was not baked and had chocolate in it, too sweet and couldn't eat much of it. At this point things got really bad, we decided to wrap up and it took another 10mins to wave someone down to get our bill, honestly what the heck. Then we waited another 10 mins where not one staff member was around to bring us the bill. We went up to the main service area and were ignored by 4 staff, and stood there for 3 mins thinking they were ringing things up but then just walked away! At this point it was getting really beyond tolerance, we were almost ready to walk away without paying but decided against it so we both went up and made a fuss because from the moment we got in we had been treated pretty dismally. Our good waiter had long gone by this point, I hope he finds another job somewhere else. Meanwhile we had the most arrogant and extremely apathetic staff member who didn't even want to sort us out and just said "it's not my fault" and the manager would sort it out.. REALLY?! She was sitting out the back but came up to us and we explained the whole experience and this is where things all started to make some sense. Whilst they were trying to say that it's a relaxed place and to chill (hey we we were EXTREMELY patient) she then alluded that it wasn't because we were gay that we weren't being served which of course meant that that was the reason. She couldn't even say the words. The more we looked at the evening and the clientele, the more it made sense to us that a lot of places (and maybe areas) have not progressed and unfortunately the pink dollar isn't worth much here. To wrap things up I find it a real shame that this kind of discrimination occurs but it needs to be called out so others don't experience the same. If you come to Malta stay in Valletta as its lots of fun and certainly don't come to...
Read moreExceptional Dining Experience with Wonderful Hospitality!
I recently had the pleasure of dining at the Boathouse restaurant in the beautiful Xlendi bay in Gozo, and I must say, it exceeded all my expectations. From the moment we stepped inside, we were greeted with warm smiles and exceptional hospitality by the staff, particularly "Goodwin", who went above and beyond to ensure we had a memorable experience.
One of the highlights of our visit was the variety of fresh seafood that they had to offer. As seafood enthusiasts, we couldn't resist trying a little bit of everything. We indulged in deliciously prepared fish, succulent calamari, and perfectly cooked shrimps. Each dish was a testament to the restaurant's commitment to serving only the finest quality seafood.
To add a touch of local flavour to our culinary adventure, we also decided to try a local cheese dish from Gozo as an appetiser. It was a great way to experience the authentic cuisine of the region.
Initially, I honestly had reservations about dining at the Boathouse because the last time I visited Xlendi bay, the restaurant was still in its old building. I was afraid that the new restaurant might not live up to my cherished memories of the old place. However, I am thrilled to report that the restaurant in its new look has not only preserved the essence of its previous location but has also elevated the overall dining experience.
The ambiance of the new restaurant is delightful, with a modern and stylish interior that complements the breathtaking views of Xlendi bay. The attention to detail in the decor and the thoughtfully arranged outdoor seating with dimmed lights in the evening made our meal even more enjoyable.
Too bad I cannot share photos of our lovely dishes, as they were and we couldn't resist but to dig into them right away.
In conclusion, I highly recommend the Boathouse restaurant, as whether you're a seafood lover or simply looking for an exquisite culinary adventure, the Boat House is the perfect place to satisfy...
Read moreEver since my local friends recommended the place we have been many times in this fine local restaurant which offers fine dining on still affordable, value for your money / mid-range prices.
Better make reservation either online or through phone to avoid any inconvenience as it is a popular place to eat.
Service is excellent, kind, fast and professional from every aspect. Children were offered with coloring and other toys as well to spend their "meal happy" :)
Highly recommend seafood, pastas and all sorts of Italian cuisine - go beyond chicken :)
Desserts are also excellent and offer multiple choices - treat yourself.
Also worth to mention that their restrooms are kept in a nice and clean condition, truly according to "European standards" which is unfortunately not always the case at other local places.
Surrounding areas offer great view of the Western shore and cliffs, most beautiful during sunset (after or before having dinner just a couple minutes walk on built path next to Xlendi bay.
If you come by car then I would recommend parking on main square Pjazza l-Anfori (approx. one minute walk from the...
Read more