Risette has been named Best Overall Restaurant for 2025 at the prestigious Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants Awards, held on December 9th, 2024, at The Xara Lodge.

The restaurant, celebrated for its exceptional culinary offerings, also won awards for Best Food and Best Service, solidifying its place as one of Malta’s premier dining establishments.

The awards, which marked the 25th anniversary of the guide, honoured the top-rated restaurants across Malta and Gozo based on votes from diners in the annual Restaurant Survey.

A total of 3,951 participants contributed their insights, representing over 330,000 dining experiences from the past year.

Celebrating Malta & Gozo’s Culinary Excellence

The awards night, sponsored by the Malta Tourism Authority, Global Payments, and the Malta Food Agency, celebrated Malta and Gozo’s top 40 restaurants. These were selected based on overall ratings, the number of reviews, and diners’ feedback. Alongside Risette, standout establishments like de Mondion, Rebekah’s, Sole by Tarragon, and Ta’ Frenc were recognized for their exceptional quality.

Special Category Awards

In addition to the main rankings, several restaurants and individuals received accolades in specific categories:

• Best Ambience: de Mondion
• Best Newcomer: Mamacita
• Best Maltese Restaurant: Tal-Familja
• Best Restaurant in Gozo: Ta’ Frenc
• Most Promising Young Chef: Neil Peresso
• Best Value for Money: The Aft Galley

The Wine Awards

Wine excellence was also celebrated, with ION winning Best Overall Wine List and Best Champagne Wine List, while Caviar & Bull was awarded The People’s Choice Wine List.

A New Chapter for the Guide

This year’s guide welcomed 33 new restaurants, reflecting the ever-evolving dining scene in Malta and Gozo. The 2025 edition of the Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants is now available for €8 at restaurantsmalta.com and leading bookstores.

Honouring a Legacy

Tourism Minister Ian Borg commended the culinary excellence showcased at the awards, highlighting Malta’s growing reputation as a gastronomic destination.

Lisa Grech, Managing Director of the guide, and representatives from the sponsors presented the awards, with beautifully designed commemorative plates by Schonwald adding a special touch to the ceremony.