7 Falafel Joints In Malta That Will Transport You To The Middle East
Sometimes, a proper good falafel can make all the difference.
A deep-fried ball or patty-shaped fritter of Arab origin, featuring in Middle Eastern cuisine (especially in Levantine and Egyptian cuisines), falafel is made from ground chickpeas, fava beans, or both with onion, garlic and a variety of spices.
It probably originated in Egypt where it is called Ta’amia and is made with fava beans or a combination of fava and chickpeas and spread to Lebanon, Syria, Jordan, Palestine, Iraq and Bahrain where chickpeas are mostly used. It is also very popular in Israeli cuisine.
More and more Maltese watering holes are offering this delicious morsel, usually served wrapped in pitta bread or flatbread, with various salads and tahini or harissa sauces.
1. Kebab Ji, Sliema
This Lebanese Sliema eatery is always bustling with customers as the appetising aromas waft into the street. One of the first eateries to introduce this food to Malta it is still one of the top places to sample this exotic snack.
2. Olive House, Sliema
This authentic Lebanese eatery has recently moved from its previous premises in Floriana to St. Vincent in Sliema to give you even more Levantine goodness with a new, more extensive menu. Their falafel is still to die for
3. Ġugar, Valletta
This popular, welcoming hangout down Republic Street is known for playing good music and a lively, convivial atmosphere. It also serves good veggie nosh including, of course, lovely falafel!
4. Hasan Falafel And Fatayer, Gżira
This Syrian hole in the wall family-run takeaway specialises in falafel and hand-made pastries. You can watch them at work from when Lovin Malta paid them a visit a couple of years ago, or, better still, go and try it yourself
5. Baba Ganoush, Ħamrun, Buġibba
Another Syrian takeout that offers a variety of mouth-watering Middle Eastern dishes for your enjoyment. I’ll have the umm… Falafel!
6. Falafel Street, Valletta, Sliema, Ta’ Xbiex
Snuck in a corner of a large shopping arcade as you walk into Valletta, this Lebanese restaurant is very popular for a quick snack. It has branches in Sliema and Ta’ Xbiex as well so it seems to be doing well. They offer a novel twist to the falafel with the beetroot wrap. Try it!
7. Ali Baba, Gżira
If you are after a more high-end Lebanese dining experience you could hardly do better than Ali Baba. Renown chef, Hani Harb prepares a dazzling selection of mezze and main courses. And of course, falafel.
Explore these restaurants and so much more by checking out Lovin Restaurants, the newest foodie guide on the island.
Are you ready for falafel yet?
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