Legligin Restaurant — Restaurant in Valletta

A truly exceptional and faultless meal, and excellent service. We’d walked by the restaurant a couple of times and had made a note to visit - it looks incredibly inviting with its red doors and shutters, and informative chalk boards on the street, and the 38.50-euro per person tasting menu of Maltese- and Mediterranean-inspired dishes seemed very good value (there is no ‘a la carte’ menu). There is also the option for wine pairing with your meal, with 6 quality Maltese wines (an extra €32.50pp).

The tasting menu for the day is dependent on what the team find fresh at the market. We thoroughly enjoyed everything that was served, there were no ‘outlandish’ dishes (and they check if you have allergies beforehand), and the knowledgeable staff talk you through the ingredients as they serve each dish, so you’re fully aware of what you’re eating.

We started with some really soft white bread and high-quality olive oil, and a beautiful pumpkin soup which was silky smooth and delicately spiced. Absolutely glorious and very moreish (it would make the perfect winter warmer in Britain). We were then brought a range of small dishes which included slices of sausage, roasted peppers and aubergines, a rabbit pate, Maltese Arjoli dip (sundried tomatoes, olives, garlic and herb dip), kalamata olives, and a very mild & creamy goats cheese which I enjoyed (usually I detest goats cheese). Following that came a Parmigiana melanzane (layered aubergine, courgette and parmesan); mussels in a white wine, onion and garlic sauce; a ‘lasagne’ type thing with provolone cheese and pancetta, sprinkled on top with crushed pistachios, and finally local rabbit leg with creamy mash potato. I cannot emphasis quite how beautiful and stunning and perfect every dish was. This is most definitely the best ‘meal’ we’ve had during our 10-night stay in Malta.

We decided to order two half bottles of wine - a 2021 Chardonnay from the Meridiana Wine Estate (Malta), and a barrel-fermented Antonin Chardonnay harvested from the Ramla Valley estate in Gozo (produced by Marsovin). Both superb and delicious with our food. Puddings can be ordered afterwards and aren’t part of the tasting menu. During our visit, the dessert options were Creme brûlée, Tiramisù or a Continental cheese board - though we were much too stuffed for...

Dinner at Legligin, Valletta – A True Maltese Experience

I finally visited Legligin Restaurant in Valletta, and it lived up to everything I’d heard — authentic, intimate, and full of character.

The evening started with a warm welcome and a short story about the name Legligin — it comes from the Maltese word for the sound of wine being poured, “glug-glug.” That alone set the tone. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a place built around conversation, family, and good wine.

I chose the tasting menu, which is the only option here — no à la carte, just trust the kitchen. Every dish felt honest and homemade.

The fish soup was light but deeply flavored, full of fresh local fish, carrots, and herbs. You could tell the broth had been simmering slowly for hours.

Then came the pasta, perfectly cooked, coated in a creamy tomato-based sauce with herbs and a touch of spice. Simple, comforting, and delicious — the kind of dish that doesn’t try too hard because it doesn’t need to.

The beef stew was my favorite — tender chunks of meat with mushrooms and garlic in a creamy sauce. It reminded me of something you’d get in a home kitchen on a Sunday, rich and soulful.

For dessert, a chocolate cake soaked in cream, topped with candied fruit and coconut. Sweet, dense, and satisfying, it felt like a festive Maltese twist on a classic pudding.

Everything paired beautifully with a local wine, Marsovin Antonin 2023, smooth and balanced, with a depth that worked perfectly with the food.

The space itself feels like a time capsule — old stone walls, soft lighting, and just a few tables. It’s small, personal, and cozy, as if you’re dining in someone’s home. You can feel the family touch: the owner, Chris Mifsud Bonnici, still works closely with his wife and son. That warmth translates into everything — the food, the service, the atmosphere.

Legligin isn’t flashy or modern, and that’s exactly why it’s special. It’s a reminder that great dining doesn’t need to be complicated — just real people, real food, and a love for what they do.

If you’re in Malta, book ahead. Come hungry. And don’t ask for the menu — just let them...

Legligin, nestled in the heart of Valletta, Malta, is a culinary gem that offers a captivating experience with its set tasting menu of local dishes imbued with a distinct Italian flair. From the moment you step into this cozy eatery, the warmth and attentiveness of the staff promise a memorable evening.

The tasting menu is a journey through Maltese cuisine, with each dish carefully crafted to showcase the rich flavors and heritage of the island, while seamlessly incorporating Italian influences. The portions are thoughtfully curated, allowing diners to explore a diverse range of dishes without feeling overwhelmed.

A standout feature of Legligin is its exceptional wine list. The selection of Maltese wines is particularly impressive, featuring both well-known labels and hidden gems, all at surprisingly affordable prices. This provides a wonderful opportunity to delve into the local wine scene and discover varieties that are rarely found outside the island.

The service at Legligin is commendable. The staff are not only friendly but also knowledgeable, offering insights into the dishes and wine pairings, which enhances the overall dining experience. They manage to strike the perfect balance between professionalism and personal touch, making you feel both valued and well cared for.

Overall, Legligin is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the essence of Maltese dining with a touch of Italian sophistication. Whether you're a local or a tourist, this restaurant is sure to leave a lasting impression with its delightful food, excellent wine, and...