El Catalan — Restaurant in Xgħajra

The food is abundant. The thing that most bothered me is that we were seated outside, underneath the umbrellas, and customers seated at tables next to us were smoking. When I drew the waiter's attention he told me that outside is a smoking area. I beg to differ, since, the law clearly states that you can't smoke in a restaurant, even if you're seated outside. Reply to management's comment: Sadly, the law I was talking about has been revoked. In my opinion, since the majority of the patrons weren't smoking, it would have been wiser for the restaurant management/staff to facilitate the majority. I don't think it's fair that non-smoking patrons have to sit inside the restaurant on a beautiful sunny day, just because other selfish patrons decide to polute the air with their stinking smoke. My husband is a smoker, however, when he needs to light a cigarette, he moves away from the tables. It's called decency, and you, as the management, should be the first to promote...

My family and friends have visited this place various times before as it had good quality and delicious food with excellent value for money. However last week we were super disappointed. Food order came in various prolonged stages , meat and fish served alone, with the condiments which were offered with these dishes being served after we had to remind the waiters several times. Where as those who ordered pizza noted that the pizza served today did not compare to the delicious pizza they used to serve before. The entire experience was not what we had intended to be , especially since two of the participants had their birthday. We will think it twice before considering to visit this restaurant. However for all those intending to visit must keep in mind that prices of both drinks and food are still affordable. The restaurant has indoor and outdoor seating with magnificent sea views.. Additionally it can cater for private functions, while ample street free parking...

I must say that over all taking in consideration that the restaurant was jam packed with people the service was really good and the staff is very friendly! But unfortunately the food I was a bit disappointed. We got 2 platters as staters to share between 4, a cheese platter and the El Catalan Platter - they had good quality items in them (i give them that hands down) but both platters together barely were enough for 2 people let alone for 4. My mum's risotto, my dad's mixed grill, my sister's pizza was really good - the pizza is delicious.

But the problem happened when I ordered braised brisket with Mac n cheese. I assumed that I would get the Mac n cheese as a side dish, but they gave me 4 pieces of frozen bought nuggets filled with so called Mac n cheese and instead of brisket I had cube roll beef which is completely different...