Exploring Malta’s Culinary Identity: Flavour By Design At designMT
What role does design play in shaping Malta’s food and drink experiences? This question is at the heart of Flavour by Design: The Making of Malta’s Culinary Identity, one of the key themes at designMT, Malta’s first-ever design expo.
The event, moderated by MasterChef Malta semi-finalist Ivan Giordano takes place on 2nd October at 6pm and promises to explore how design influences not only what we see but also what we taste.
Attendees will dive into the design processes behind Malta’s food and beverage products, with insights into packaging, presentation, and the ways these elements shape the nation’s culinary culture.
As part of the theme, designMT features a lineup of innovative exhibitors, each showcasing their unique approach to merging design with food and drink.
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Chocolate District
Founded by brothers Mark and Dennis Aquilina, Chocolate District is known for its artisan chocolate creations, crafted from exclusive cacaos and local ingredients. Their innovative approach results in bold, sometimes unconventional flavours, all while preserving Malta’s culinary traditions.
The exhibit will showcase a collection of artisanal chocolate bars inspired by authentic Maltese ingredients. Hand-wrapped and adorned with local iconography and traditional tberfil typography, these chocolates not only tell a story of flavour but also highlight the artistry behind their design.
Tettiera
Founded by Joanna Micallef Farrugia and Diana Mifsud, Tettiera is a luxury tea brand that transforms a simple cup of tea into a sensory experience. Their offerings include artisan teas and herbal infusions that blend design and flavour.
Tettiera’s Limited Edition Luxury Advent Calendar is inspired by Maltese townhouses. Each compartment is filled with teas, gourmet treats, and calligraphy stationery.
The design, with its iconic Maltese doors and balconies, is a nod to local architecture. After Christmas, the townhouse can be repurposed for keepsakes or even used as a chessboard, turning packaging into a functional part of everyday life.
Commenting on the exhibition, Tettiera said, “We believe that food should delight not only the taste buds but all the senses. That’s why packaging design is key in enhancing the story behind each product, elevating expectations, and connecting with consumers on a deeper level. Every brand has its unique narrative, and through thoughtful product design, packaging, and presentation, we bring that story to life.”
Sue Mifsud Ceramics
While ceramics is not food, plating through cutlery and plates is a form of design on our tables which is a form of design related to food and drinks indirectly.
Sue Mifsud has been a ceramics designer since 1993, working with prominent chefs and private clients. Her creations are influenced by the Maltese landscape, and she often explores the intersection of tradition and contemporary design.
Mifsud’s stoneware thrown centrepiece bowls capture the Mediterranean seascape, gradually eroding through each piece to symbolise the changing nature of traditions and landscapes. Her exhibit raises questions about the erosion of skills and traditions, presenting design not just in food, but also in the plates we use and the stories they tell.
Sue reflected on the experience and the opportunity to exhibition the designs out of her studio.
“It’s been 8 years since I’ve exhibited my ceramic designs outside of my Rabat studio, but designMT seemed a good fit for what I do. The behind-the-scenes organisation has been extremely professional which always gives me confidence in how the final event will be presented to an audience. I sit amongst a collection of well-chosen, diverse creatives and trust it will be a positive experience for participants and visitors.”
Why Flavour by Design Matters
This theme goes beyond food and drink—Flavour by Design offers a fresh perspective on how the presentation of a product can influence the entire culinary experience. From artisanal chocolates to ceramics that redefine dining, design plays a crucial role in how we connect with what’s on our tables. This discussion will shed light on the importance of thoughtful design in creating unforgettable food experiences in Malta and beyond.
designMT runs from 30th September to 5th October at various historic venues across Valletta. Entry is free, with exhibitions at Auberge D’Aragon, Fortress Builders, St John’s Cavalier and the Valletta Design Cluster.
For more details about the expo, visit designMT’s website for additional information.
Discover how design shapes Malta’s culinary future and be inspired by the fusion of tradition, flavour, and creativity!
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