• 48 restaurants feature in the new selection, including 6 new recommendations
• All 7 starred restaurants reconfirmed
• Bib Gourmand category expands to 5 restaurants
Three New Special MICHELIN Awards were Handed Out
The 2026 selection of the MICHELIN Guide Malta was officially presented on Wednesday 18th March during a ceremony held at The Phoenicia Malta in Floriana, reaffirming the Maltese Islands’ growing reputation as a high-quality gastronomic destination. The awards were presented on stage by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Hon. Ian Borg, Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority Dr Charles Mangion and Chief Executive Officer Mr Carlo Micallef, who congratulated industry professionals for their continued excellence and achievements.
This year’s awards presentation featured 48 restaurants, including six newly recommended establishments. All seven Michelin-starred restaurants have retained their distinctions, showcasing the consistency and excellence of the Maltese islands’ dining experience. The Bib Gourmand category also expanded with one new addition, bringing the total to five across the islands, while three outstanding professionals were recognised with MICHELIN Special Awards. Namely, the MICHELIN Young Chef Award was presented to George Attard at Level Nine, the MICHELIN Service Award was presented to the team at Rosamì under the direction of Charlo Cachia, whilst the MICHELIN Sommelier Award was awarded to Miljan Radonjic of the Michelin-starred De Mondion in Mdina.
Malta's Culinary Sector Continues to Offer Authentic and High-Quality Experiences
Among the standout establishments, ION Harbour by Simon Rogan maintained its two-star status, distinguished by modern cuisine marked by exceptional balance, meticulous presentation, and a strong farm-to-table philosophy.
One new restaurant, namely Verbena received a Bib Gourmand distinction, while five restaurants, namely Osteria Scottadito, Bistra Boca, Anima, Le Majoliche and Scala were awarded with the recommended addresses for the first time.
Malta’s strategic tourism vision is firmly centred on attracting high-quality visitors who seek refined, authentic and immersive experiences. Culinary excellence forms a key pillar of this proposition. International recognitions of this calibre validate the quality of Malta’s offering and strengthen the destination’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.
Mr Carlo Micallef, Chief Executive Officer of the Malta Tourism Authority, expressed his satisfaction with the latest achievements:
“The recognition received in the 2026 MICHELIN Guide once again highlights the strength and maturity of Malta’s culinary sector. The reconfirmation of all seven starred restaurants, together with the expansion of recommended establishments and special award recipients, reflects the dedication, innovation and professionalism of our chefs, restaurateurs and hospitality teams. Gastronomy remains a central pillar of Malta’s tourism strategy and continues to strengthen the islands’ international reputation as a destination delivering authentic and high-quality experiences.”
Gastronomy as a Pillar of Our Identity
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister for Foreign Affairs and Tourism Hon. Ian Borg emphasised the importance of these recognitions within Malta’s broader tourism strategy:
“These recognitions reflect the Maltese Islands’ continued progress in elevating its tourism offering and strengthening its reputation as a destination defined by authentic visitor experiences. Gastronomy plays a fundamental role in a destination’s identity, and the success of our MICHELIN-recognised establishments demonstrates the industry’s shared commitment to excellence. Our strategy remains focused on attracting discerning visitors whilst ensuring that tourism growth remains resilient and beneficial for visitors, local communities and all stakeholders.”
Further Strengthening the Islands’ Reputation Through Culinary Excellence, Quality and Innovation
Chairman of the Malta Tourism Authority Dr Charles Mangion also highlighted the importance of the MICHELIN Guide for Malta’s tourism product:
“The continued presence and expansion of the MICHELIN Guide in Malta continues to showcase the strength and dynamism of our gastronomic sector. These recognitions not only celebrate the talent of our professionals but also reinforce Malta’s positioning as a destination where gastronomy forms an integral part of the overall visitor experience.”
Following these outstanding results, the Malta Tourism Authority remains committed to supporting the continued growth and international positioning of Malta’s culinary sector. Through strategic collaboration, industry support and a continued focus on quality and innovation, the Maltese Islands will further strengthen their reputation as a distinguished culinary destination where exceptional cuisine plays a central role in the islands’ identity and tourism offering.
