Bacchus Restaurant

Bacchus dates back to the 17th century and is set in a quiet alleyway in the silent city of Mdina, Malta’s old capital. The restaurant is part of the island’s living history and has been serving gastronomic treats for nearly half a century while reinventing itself regularly ever since then. The architecture at Bacchus – the high ceilings, the arches, the whole building – is a magical sight for diners. Acoustics are just right and conversations, or celebrations, can be enjoyed effortlessly. The bar, cutlery, tables and comfortable chairs, blend in well with the surroundings and tables are comfortably spaced out to allow privacy. Colour schemes are toned down to let you admire the stunning walls built centuries ago.

Offering a Mediterranean cuisine with choice ingredients, the menu at Bacchus covers most tastes with food fit for any Greek god. Service is delightfully unobtrusive and all servers are knowledgeable about the food on offer. Begin with oysters or octopus terrine accompanied by local prawn crudo. For an unexpected combination, try squash and toffee soup with chickpea fritters. Pasta lovers can savour trofie with a 30-hour brisket ragù and goat’s cheese, while lamb terrine with lamb jus offers a rich, satisfying main course. Finish with the delicately indulgent sea-salt, caramel and chocolate tart.