Sometimes you stumble upon a restaurant that immediately wins you over with its location. Perhaps it has sensational views or inspiring architecture or ambience. Then there are restaurants where the food must do all the talking. 

Taro in Balluta is one such restaurant. For the last couple of years now it has built a name for itself by serving some of the island’s most elegant and imaginative dishes, becoming a favourite for the most refined Maltese diners. But it did all this from a small and relatively hidden location within Le Méridien St. Julians Hotel and Spa.

Now this gem has found the crown it deserves. As part of a wider reorganisation of the hotel complex, Taro restaurant will be moving into The Villa, overlooking Balluta Bay. The food will still do the talking, but patrons will now also be able to soak in the sea breeze and enjoy the luscious surroundings of this gorgeous 19th Century property. 

The award-winning team behind Taro is fired up for the much-awaiting move and is promising to keep serving some of Malta’s most inspired dishes – each one a work of art presented on handmade plates individually designed by local pottery artist Sue Mifsud. 

Equally deserving of artistic appreciation are Taro’s cocktails, which will also be gracing The Villa’s premises. Designed by bar masters Zdravko Mitev and Daniele Russo, the cocktail list is guaranteed to quench your thirst and your imagination. 

Le Méridien St. Julians Hotel and Spa also has a few other surprises in store for The Villa, which will be divided into two unique areas. But we’re going to have to wait a bit longer to find out what secrets they’re keeping close to their chests. 

In the meantime, The Villa is also open for summertime event bookings, so if you’re looking to enjoy a slice of this elegance all to yourself, get in there before someone else does. 

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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.