Altamira

Set in a cave in the heart of Valletta, Altamira is a new addition to Valletta’s dining scene, bringing Spanish cuisine to the city in a setting where stone, shadow and fire set the tone. The dining room retains the cave’s dark stone, softened by warm, low candlelight that creates an intimate, unhurried atmosphere. Nothing feels overdone: the setting speaks for itself, while the experience centres on the glow of the light, the quiet presence of the stone and the food at the heart of the table. Its tagline, “Fire, Wine, Meat”, sums up the approach: an honest Spanish dining experience for those who come to eat well and take their time.

The kitchen serves Spanish classics without disguise. The paella is presented as it should be, while the asador menu focuses on quality meat and the flavour imparted by fire. Start with tapas, then move on to the signature paella and ribeye steak. Ask the team to recommend a wine to complement the meat; the list is designed to pair with the food and help shape the evening. Altamira is well suited to groups and long-table dining: arrive hungry, order dishes to share and let the meal unfold at its own pace.