Verbena Wine & Dine

Verbena is a quiet, local restaurant nestled among houses beside Żebbiegħ Church in Mġarr. Awarded a Bib Gourmand in the 2026 Michelin Guide Malta, it offers a welcoming, unpretentious setting alongside exquisitely presented dishes created by its passionate chef-owner, Manuel Schembri. A large, well-stocked bar features an impressive display of single malts, while comfortable sofas sit near the entrance. An extensive wine selection is showcased along one wall and in a display cabinet. Well-spaced tables and familiar music create a relaxed atmosphere.

Verbena champions homemade cooking and home-grown produce, with a focus on seasonal ingredients, generous portions and flavourful, artful presentation. Begin with roasted red pepper and courgette dip served with warm bread. The sheep’s ricotta gnocchi, dressed in a creamy sauce and topped with fresh coriander and mint, is indulgent, while beef cheek crespelle comes in a rich sauce finished with local extra-virgin olive oil. Fish with cherry tomato and herb salsa is served with matchstick carrots, cauliflower, courgette and olives, finished with fresh dill, rocket and mint. Alternatively, try pan-seared duck breast with a pulled-pork spring roll and roast potatoes. For dessert, enjoy fig crumble cake with milk-and-honey ice cream, or espresso and Baileys semifreddo drizzled with golden honey from the restaurant’s own bees.