A Food Lover's Guide to the Three Villages

You won’t need to travel far to discover Malta’s best-kept gastronomic secrets

Corinthia Palace is at the epicentre of the Three Villages of Attard, Balzan and Lija. Here, you’re in the soul of Maltese village life – and your tastebuds won’t be disappointed. Whether you’re after a snack while exploring quaint alleyways or looking for quintessential afternoon tea, we’ve got a day of culinary treats for you.

Start your day on the right foot with breakfast or brunch close to home at the grand Villa Corinthia. Hearty yet delicate and wholesome yet decadent, the menu is carefully curated to bring you the finest of ingredients. Steelcut oats with fresh fruit, cinnamon toast, banana bread, a full English, eggs benedict...this is Malta’s most coveted way to step into the day.

To feel Maltese is to go where the Maltese go. So, after breakfast, head out into the heart of the Three Villages. Stroll through the magnificent San Anton Gardens to follow in the footsteps of royalty, statesmen and dignitaries across the ages.

Morning

When it’s time for a sit-down, the village square coffee shops in Attard, Balzan and Lija give you the chance to sip a perfect cappuccino while watching the world go by.

Jalie's in Attard hits the spot. The café is hidden away behind the church – the perfect place to linger over a cup of tea or coffee, indulge in a slice of cake and maybe even crack open a bottle of wine as it nears lunchtime.

Afternoon

Get a taste of homemade Mediterranean specialities at Opera Trattoria when it’s time for a spot of lunch. Just down the road from Corinthia Palace, Opera Trattoria takes Italian dining to tastier heights. If you’re after some flavoursome treats over an afternoon glass of wine, or perhaps you’d like something heartier, this local favourite is hard to beat.

Indulgence is to be had if you’d like to save space for Afternoon Tea back at Villa Corinthia. There’s the traditional British variety with pretty little sandwiches, home-baked scones and clotted cream. Or be daring and feast on Malta’s take on afternoon tea extravagance with a whipped ricotta scone and strawberry macarons. Whatever you choose, a bottle of bubbly won’t go amiss.

Evening

When sundown comes, the Three Villages offer a variety of haute cuisine. Whether you’re looking to treat a loved one, celebrate a special occasion or just spoil yourselves on holiday, we love Bahia. Nestled in the winding streets of Lija, the chic bistro is in a 200-year-old, wonderfully restored townhouse. From the Phoenicians and Arabs to the Knights Hospitallers and French, here you’re in for a celebration of Maltese history in fine-dining form. 

Another worthy option is The Golden Fork in the heart of Attard. The Michelin-Guide restaurant is set in a restored limestone farmhouse and known for its attention to detail and innovative combination of flavours. The ever-evolving menu is inspired by Mediterranean cuisine and brims with seasonal dishes that use the freshest of local ingredients. When the head chef – Letizia Vella – has worked with world-renowned Heston Blumenthal at two of his Michelin-starred restaurants, you know you’re onto a good thing.