For example, I have tried ftira, their local bread that was just named one of the world's 50 best breads! It has a harder, crispy outside with a soft inside and is often used to make tuna sandwiches for lunch. The Maltese also often eat something called bigilla, which is a spread or dip made out of black beans and commonly paired with bread. The name "Malta" also means "the land of honey," so unsurprisingly, Malta has some of the best honey in the world! Something else Malta is famous for is sheep's cheese, which can be showcased in its tasty raviolis (stuffed pasta) in tomato sauce. Speaking of pasta, Maltese food can be pretty similar to Italian food since the countries are located so close together, so Malta has some amazing pasta and pizza.
Some other traditional foods I have not tried are lampuki (mahi mahi fish), rabbit stew and a lot of other forms of seafood and rabbit!
Malta emphasizes warmth, comfort and family in all of its culture, and I can especially appreciate those values in its food. As someone whose family is Sicilian, I am often reminded of family gatherings from my childhood. Also, since large supermarkets and super-curated (specialized) restaurants aren't as common here, I have to search for what I want, often taking me on journeys to different bakeries, markets and vegetable stands. Of course, these journeys bring conversations with local grandmas and grandpas who give me new foods to try. I feel a sense of community when I eat Maltese food, as I am always surrounded by families sitting outside cafes, taking their time to savor every part of their meal.
