St. Julians Bay, nestled between Spinola and Balluta Bays in coastal Malta, is an irresistible blend of dazzling sea views, storied architecture, and an unmatched dining scene that runs the gamut from upscale seafood temples to lively pizzerias, hidden gems, and Mediterranean casual-cool.
1. Sea-View Sophistication
OyOy Restaurant — Spinola Bay
Perched right on the waterfront, offering panoramic Mediterranean vistas, OyOy pairs its refined ambience with dishes like barbecued octopus, oysters, and lobster tail—all complemented by a fine cocktail and wine program.
San Giuliano & Raffael — Historic Boathouses
These sister venues occupy 17th‑century boathouses below the Baroque‑era Spinola Palace. Expect classic seafood plates, fresh pasta, premium meats, and charming terrace service.
Bacchus / Blue Elephant (Hilton)
Bacchus is a Mediterranean haute cuisine heavyweight. Nearby, Blue Elephant delivers Thai‑style flair within a luxe setting overlooking the marina.
2. Mediterranean & Maltese Comfort
Gululu (Spinola Bay)
Casual and packed with local favourites—think rabbit pasta, baby calamari, and mezze dips—this spot offers authentic Maltese flavours with bay views and good value.
Sciacca Grill
Perfect for steak and seafood lovers, Sciacca provides prime cuts and lobster selections, with a refined yet relaxed coastal vibe.
Caviar & Bull
Set within the luxurious Corinthia Hotel, this is the premium choice for adventurous Mediterranean tasting menus and upscale presentation.
3. Global Flavors & Trendy Hotspots
MÉZ Restaurant — Spinola Bay
Celebrating spice‑fusion cuisine that draws inspiration from the Indian Ocean’s culinary routes, Méz is a great mid‑range option with sea views and stylish décor.
Zen & Wigi’s Kitchen
Zen earns praise for its consistent, Asian‑Mediterranean fusion 😉 And Wigi’s is recommended via forum buzz.
Blue Elephant
Already mentioned, it’s often rated as “one of the best” for Asian cuisine in Malta.
4. Casual Eats & Flavours to Explore
Cuba Bistro
Vibrant and open‑air, this Mediterranean‑Latin fusion spot caters to breakfast, lunch, dinner, and cocktails, all overlooking Spinola Bay.
Storie & Sapori / Piccolo Padre
At Balluta Bay, these sister pizzerias serve traditional Neapolitan pizza in a quaint villa setting, perfect for families or romantic dinners.
Buffalo Bills, Bianco’s, Dubliner
For steaks and pub comfort food, these places get consistent shout‑outs–ideal if you’re in the mood for something hearty and unpretentious.
5. Specialty & Light-Touch Stops
Kyoto Japanese Bakery (Sliema)
A mini‑treasure for matcha lovers—adorable sweets and drinks in a Japanese-style patisserie setting. A 30-minute walk or short cab ride, well worth the journey for something different.
RivaReno Gelato
The gelato bar that truly delivers. Think creamy, inventive flavors—hazelnut is a standout—and a perfect sweet treat after a bay‑side walk.
6. Insider Picks & Local Gems
- Barracuda – seafood‑and‑pasta tucked near the Church of Our Lady of Mount Carmel; scenic and delicious.
- Spinola Terrace – calm, high‑perch spot with contemporary décor and complimentary amuse‑bouches.
- Is‑Serkin Pastizzi – street‑food must-try: flaky, cheesy/piece‑filled pastizzi—cheap, cheerful, and local.
Planning Your St. Julians Bay Route
| Type | Venue | Why Go |
|---|---|---|
| Luxury Sea-View | OyOy, San Giuliano, Caviar & Bull | Sophisticated dishes & romantic vibes |
| Local Flair | Gululu, Sciacca Grill | Maltese classics and premium grill/seafood |
| Global Fusion | MÉZ, Zen, Wigi’s, Blue Elephant | Asian, spice-route, Mediterranean mashups |
| Casual & Fun | Cuba Bistro, Piccolo Padre, Bianco’s | Pizzas, steaks, Latin-fusion by the bay |
| Light & Unique | Kyoto Bakery (pastries), RivaReno Gelato | Perfect for afternoon treats or dessert |
Final Thoughts for Sole by Tarragon Readers
St. Julians Bay offers an eclectic blend of culinary experiences—whether you’re after Michelin-level finesse, local Maltese charm, family-friendly pasta nights, or chilled gelato breaks on the waterfront.
For multi-course seafood dinners with sea views, stick to OyOy or San Giuliano. If you’re all about Maltese heritage on a plate, grab a seat at Gululu or Sciacca Grill. Craving creative global flavors? MÉZ, Zen, and Blue Elephant won’t disappoint.
And don’t miss the chance to wander into hidden lanes for pastizzi or enjoy an evening walk with gelato by the bay.
Tips & Extras
- Book ahead for window-side tables, especially at peak times.
- Vegetarian & gluten‑free options are increasingly available—Cuba, Zen, and MéZ are good bets.
- Kids in tow? Choose family-friendly pizzerias like Piccolo Padre or casual places like Cuba.
- Want to stroll? Start at Balluta Bay, meander along to Spinola Bay—pausing for food and drinks as you like.