Malta’s location in the Mediterranean means that you can find some nice seafood restaurants and bistros that serve our favorite mussels and oysters.
We used our own evenings and memories of the best places, collected recommendations by speaking with Valletta fishmongers, Marsaxlokk fishermen, chefs in Sliema, and by consulting sources like the Michelin Guide, SmagAarhus (Malta food section), and local seafood lovers.
The following restaurants (the best of many good spots) have fresh oysters, nicely sautéed (not overdone and sauced) mussels, grilled fish (mostly seabass and red snapper), casual bistros, stylish new spots, and elegant Michelin-level dining on the island.
The list is constantly updated.
Our favorite places for oysters, mussels, and fish in Malta
Il Gabbana – Sliema beachside seafood and breakfast
Tower Road, Sliema – Google 4.4/5
A super easy and casual bistro in Sliema, Malta’s busiest town, with oysters and mussels. A good place with a view of the sea. One of our favorite places for Il Gabbana has been serving locals since the early 2000s from its prime spot on Sliema’s promenade. Known for combining casual breakfasts with fresh fish specials later in the day, it’s a versatile place.
Seafood dishes include 6 oysters (number 2, small but easy) for just €18, sautéed mussels in a good, not over-flavored sauce, seared tuna steak, and grilled calamari. Good crispy fries are a must! The view is right to the sea. The place is just next to the popular Sliema beach on the promenade, where you can watch a catwalk show of topless guys with wet hair, runners, local elderly, and nicely dressed visiting girls, and the service is fast and friendly.
Prices for mains range from €14–€30 (for a bottle of Champaign Roederer you pay $60), and it’s popular for both quick snacks and long lunches.
Address: Triq It-Torri, Tas-Sliema SLM 1604
Bistro Boca Malta – NEW Cool Bistro!
A fresh place with a French touch (sometimes the same song over and over too much though). New oysters and mussels in a secret place on the Maltese islands with a view of Valletta. Opened in 2023, this fresh small but trendy bistro mixes French flair, NYC edge, and seafood finesse. On TripAdvisor, it ranks 4.6/5. Oysters are €6 each ($6.50), and they reward you with a free glass of sparkling wine when you order three oysters—Valletta’s skyline frames your table.
The menu offers dishes with international influences and a confident wine and cocktail program. Prices are €18–€35 ($19–$38). Décor is modern, with clean lines and low-key coastal accents that sit alongside the water’s edge.
Address: 9 ix-Xatt Ta’ Xbiex, Ta’ Xbiex, Malta
Oysteria in St. Julian’s, Malta
This small oyster bar offers Mediterranean and French oysters priced €4–6 ($4.50–$6.50) apiece, served with chilled Champagne and minimal garnish. The bar holds a TripAdvisor rating of 4.6/5, based on a consistent percentage in the Travellers’ Choice top.
The interior features marble-topped tables and subdued lighting—no dramatic flourishes, just attention on freshness. You’ll find it verges on simple elegance, with thoughtful service rather than flashy presentation.
Address: 14 Triq l-Imghazel
Naar Restobar
Top Spot in St. Julian, Malta for good vibes, grilled fish, and crowds! No oyesters though. Naar Restobar, opened in 2020, is one of Malta’s trendiest seafood spots. It’s rated around 4.2/5. It has it all: nicely dressed locals, signature cocktails, sushi rolls with local grilled fish and my favorite whole grilled seabass in a lively beachside interior. Friendly and talkative waiters, a good DJ, and prosecco. It goes nicely with their unique crispy fries (ask for a mushroom sauce) and mussels in Thai spicy sauce. Platters and sharing dishes run €18–€40 ($19–$43). You’re just as likely to come for the views or cocktails as for the tuna carpaccio. Book in advance by phone.
Address: Triq it-Torri, St Julian’s, Malta
ION Harbour – Michelin-starred local food restaurant
ION Harbour received its Michelin star in 2023. Under British chef Simon Rogan’s vision, it focuses on seasonal local seafood: examples include raw amberjack with citrus infusions or line-caught dentex in fennel-saffron broth. With harbour views but refined, understated finishes—pale tones, simple lines—it balances flair with restraint.
Main courses start at around €50 ($54), and you can add a Champagne option if you’re pairing with oysters. It’s official Michelin-level luxury without fuss.
Address: 1 St Barbara Bastion, Valletta, Malta
Susurrus at AX The Palace
Since 2018, Susurrus has served shellfish like mussels in white wine and garlic and local crab in an elevated hotel setting. Google rates it 4.3/5. Designed by DAAA Haus, the room marries modern minimalism with harbour views.
Mains cost €20–€45 ($22–$48). It’s a stylish choice where you can lean into seafood without ignoring design or comfort.
Address: High Street, Sliema, Malta
Malta’s Seafood and Fish Restaurants in Our Guide
- Oysteria – Chick and champagne oyster bar
- Il Gabbana – Sliema beachside seafood
- ION Harbour by Simon Rogan – Michelin-starred fine-dining seafood
- Bistro Boca – Casual spot for oysters and sparkling wine bonus
- Susurrus – Elevated mussels with design flair
- Naar Restobar – Trendy local seafood-and-coastal scene
If you live in Malta or have visited and think we missed your favorite spot, write to us at hello@localsinsider.com.
