Mediterranean Spirit: Valletta's Hidden Cocktail Gems

BY: Mauro Rossetti

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updated 24 Jun 2024

Within Valletta's honey-colored limestone walls, a vibrant cocktail scene emerges, blending Malta's rich history of herb-infused spirits with contemporary mixing techniques. From harbor-view rooftop bars to intimate speakeasies, the city's mixologists craft drinks that capture the essence of this Mediterranean crossroads.

Mediterranean Spirit: Valletta's Hidden Cocktail Gems

Valletta's cocktail culture reflects the city's unique position as a melting pot of Mediterranean influences. The scene has evolved from traditional bars serving local spirits to sophisticated establishments offering creative cocktails that showcase Maltese ingredients.

The city's mixologists skillfully incorporate local herbs, fruits, and traditional spirits into contemporary creations. Maltese citrus, indigenous herbs, and native liqueurs feature prominently in innovative drinks that capture the island's distinctive flavors.

The contemporary bar scene thrives within the UNESCO World Heritage city, from elegant rooftop venues overlooking Grand Harbour to atmospheric bars tucked away in historic palazzos. Industry pioneers like Karl Vassallo at Yard 32 and Andrew Calleja at The Thirsty Barber have helped establish Valletta as an emerging Mediterranean cocktail destination.

The scene maintains a distinctly Maltese character while embracing international trends, creating an experience that balances local heritage with modern innovation.

A bit of history...

Valletta's relationship with spirits dates back to the Knights of St. John, who brought their herbal liqueur traditions to Malta in the 16th century. The historic Café Cordina played a significant role in developing the city's drinking culture.

While traditional bars dominated much of the 20th century, the early 2000s saw the emergence of craft cocktail establishments. The 2010s marked a significant transformation with the opening of specialized cocktail bars and a renewed interest in Maltese spirits and ingredients.

Ingredients & Spirits used locally

During the British Colonial Period, Maltese bartenders created the legendary Kinnie Twist, a unique cocktail that combined the local bitter orange drink Kinnie with traditional Mediterranean herbs and spirits. This innovative approach to mixing local and foreign influences continues to inspire Valletta's modern mixologists.

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Ingredients & Spirits used locally

  • Bajtra liqueur

  • Maltese gin

  • Kinnie

  • Ħerba Maltija

  • Local citrus

  • Maltese honey

  • Carob syrup

  • Fig liqueur

  • Żibibbo wine

  • Mediterranean herbs

Cocktail Education in "Valletta"

Valletta has emerged as a growing center for bartender education, combining Mediterranean hospitality traditions with modern mixology techniques.

  1. Malta Bartenders Guild

    Leading organization offering professional certification and training in both traditional and contemporary techniques

  2. Institute of Tourism Studies

    Comprehensive bartending programs focusing on Mediterranean spirits and local ingredients

  3. Mediterranean Mixology Academy

    Specialized training in regional spirits and contemporary cocktail creation

Iconic Cocktail Bars in "Valletta"

The city offers numerous options when it comes to cocktail bars. Here is a shortlist of some of the most interesting and popular...

  1. Yard 32

    Specialist gin and cocktail bar offering creative drinks with local ingredients and stunning harbor views.

    32 Strait Street

  2. The Thirsty Barber

    Sophisticated speakeasy serving innovative cocktails in a vintage barbershop setting.

    223 Republic Street

  3. Bridge Bar

    Historic venue with traditional jazz and crafted cocktails overlooking the harbor.

    Bridge Street

  4. Alchemy

    Rooftop bar specializing in molecular mixology and Mediterranean-inspired drinks.

    139 St. Lucia Street

  5. Capistrano

    Vintage-style cocktail bar known for its herb-infused creations and local spirits.

    61 Old Theatre Street

  6. Native Bar & Kitchen

    Modern venue featuring local ingredients and sophisticated cocktail presentations.

    277 Republic Street

  7. Malata

    Jazz bar offering classic cocktails with a Maltese twist in historic surroundings.

    St Georges Square

  8. GianPula

    Elegant lounge specializing in Mediterranean spirits and creative mixology.

    Palace Square

  9. Loop Bar

    Contemporary bar focusing on experimental cocktails and local ingredients.

    28 Strait Street

  10. Dibbie's Bar

    Intimate venue known for its signature cocktails and harbor views.

    Valletta Waterfront

  11. Sky Club

    Rooftop lounge offering panoramic views and Mediterranean-inspired cocktails.

    22 Old Bakery Street

  12. Ordnance

    Historic pub turned cocktail bar featuring local spirits and creative mixes.

    21 Ordnance Street

  13. The Harbour Club

    Sophisticated venue with stunning views and signature cocktails using local ingredients.

    4/5 Quarry Wharf

  14. Café Society

    Art deco inspired bar specializing in classic cocktails with Maltese influences.

    13 Strait Street

  15. The Beer Cave

    Despite its name, offers an impressive cocktail program featuring local ingredients.

    46 St. Christopher Street

Future expectations...

As Valletta continues to emerge as a Mediterranean cocktail destination, mixologists are rediscovering ancient local ingredients while pioneering new techniques.