If you’re a fan of falafel (and why on Earth wouldn’t you be), you’ll be happy to learn Malta has its own falafel-eria. You know, like a pastizzeria, but for falafel. It also serves the best falafel on the island. 

Fatayer and Falafel Take-Away in Gzira is a tiny place doing what it says on the tin: fatayer (triangular pastries with spinach or meat) and falafel (those little nuggets of chickpea and fava bean goodness). The shop is set up almost exactly like a traditional Maltese pastizzeria except it also has a few tinny seats outside from where you can enjoy a quick bite.

The great thing about the falafels is that they’re doughnut shaped – with a hole in the centre – which means you get more of the crispy outside shell and they cook faster, ending up a nicer shade of golden than brown. And the filling remains soft and juicy on the inside. 

The falafels are served individually or wrapped up with hummus and the other usual trimmings. Fatayer also offers some other amazing Arabic and Middle Eastern treats, including sausage rolls with a nice bread-like dough, mini-pizzas and fatayer. All worth trying for €1 a pop. 

Fatayer can be found at the beginning of Sir Patrick Stuart Street, corner with The Strand, just further up from Dhalia and a bit further down from the Orpheum Theatre. 

Love falafel? Why not also try Falafel Street in Valletta or Kebab Ji in Sliema, voted Malta’s No. 1 kebab bar?

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Chris Peregin

Christian is an award-winning journalist and entrepreneur who founded Lovin Malta, a new media company dedicated to creating positive impact in society. He is passionate about justice, public finances and finding ways to build a better future.