Il-Bitha — Restaurant in Rabat

This was a perfect hidden gem in Rabat! We have been to many great restaurants now in Malta (been here in May for three weeks and now back for 3 months (sept/oct/nov)

we happened upon this restaurant by chance when a nearby restaurant we had planned on going to had no good tables left (and quite a rude server!) so instead we walked a few moments up the street and saw this restaurant with a beautiful courtyard style dining room with tables available,

The server (Christian-I think?apologies if I am wrong!) was very friendly and welcomed us in immediately, we saw tables with guests who had lovely food already, so knew we had found a good spot!

We were told by our server about the special Tagliata for two (and shown a photo which was very helpful!) and also he informed us what was not on the menu (the lasagne) but that it had been replaced with other options (both sounded like great pastas!)

we opted for a local wine from the Meridiana wine estate nearby (Fenici Red- very good for a hotter day!)

For our starter we shared the pulled beef croquettes- very good! The mustard aioli was perfect as were the crispy green flakes on top (parsley I think?)

I was tempted by many dishes on the menu- all sounded lovely and well thought out for flavours but We Ended up ordering the Tagliata for two and enjoyed it immensely! We also added fries and two other sauces to try and had a great time trying all combinations, steak was well cooked (med-rare) and the wine paired perfectly with the meal,

Service was great, not overbearing and we always felt cared for in the restaurant

We saw other tables meals were as well presented and most plates were left wiped clean by the other guests- a true statement for a restaurant when everyone is enjoying a variety of dishes!

Felt it was very well priced for the portions and service, certainly a better quality of food than some places on island!

We will definitely be back- thank you to the team...

We wanted to try some local wine, but we were told that it wasn’t served by the glass. We don’t drink much, but we had to order a whole bottle. Three of the wines we wanted to try were unavailable. We ordered the food at the same time as the wine because we already knew we wanted to try the octopus. In the end, the wine and the dishes were brought to us at the same time, even though the wine should have been served first, followed by the food.

We started eating about eight minutes after the dishes were served, but the food was already cold. The octopus itself was cooked well, but it was a bit too salty, and the breading on the eggplant it was served on was overly sweet. The potatoes that came with the octopus were also not tasty. The bread served was plain, but it was fresh.

When one of us finished the wine in their glass, no one came to refill it — we had to do it ourselves. I also didn’t finish my octopus dish and wanted to take it away. They brought me a cardboard box, and I had to pack it myself — something I’ve never had to do before, as it’s usually done in the kitchen.

We also mentioned from the start that we wouldn’t finish the wine and would like to take it with us. After we had paid and were getting ready to leave, no one brought us the cork, so we had to ask for it again.

The atmosphere in the restaurant itself was pleasant — soft music was playing, and the owner and waiters were kind and friendly — but unfortunately, that didn’t make up for all the shortcomings.

For such a high price for food and wine, one would expect better quality food...

We had dinner on a Sunday August 2025 around 8:30pm. Atmosphere was good, it was loud but not noisy or crowded. We didn't have to wait for any table, as we were seated as we walked in.

I ordered a Traditional fried Rabbit and partner ordered the Grilled Octopus but as a main. The fried rabbit was unfortunately bland, though cooked well but not satisfying. I had to season it with salt, makes me wonder why this was a Traditional rabbit dish (of Malta?) though tasteless. The octopus however, tasted amazing.

With drinks, I ordered a melon cocktail, while partner ordered a mango spicy margarita. The price was the dishes as euro is expensive but reasonable in GBP. Though I would say the price fits the restaurant, based on the setting and decor of the restaurant.

The staffs were nice, no issues, they served well. Though I don't know if they even serve tap water here, as it seems you need to order cocktails or wine. Before your meal, you are served a appetitzer bread+condiments, which is nice. And the main meals are served with either chips or garlic and onions potatoes. Bother actually tasted good.

I just wonder how many grilled octopus are served as a starter, because as a main, you get 3 in quality.

The place looks really nice at night time and it is a restaurant that is on par with UK styles of restaurants. I don't have any complaints for the restaurant.

I would rate this a 4 Star Type restaurant. I would recommend this restaurant, but avoid the...