St Julian’s
Shiva’s Since opening its doors in 2007, Shiva’s has established itself as one of Malta’s finest for Indian cuisine, and it has the awards to prove it. Head-chef Sudip has gathered a team of all-Indian cooks and created a menu that goes right to the soul of Indian kitchen traditions, with a generous choice for vegetarians too – we particularly like the vegetable samosas accompanied by a tangy sauce and the mixed vegetable platter including a variety of pakodas, samosas and onion bhaji. If it’s heat you’re after, the gosht vindaloo – boneless pieces of lamb in a really hot curry sauce – will do the trick, although there are plenty of mild options to choose from too. And if you’d rather opt for an Indian night in, make use of the take-away menu and free delivery service. Dragonara Road, Paceville (2138 4399, www.shivasindiancuisine.com). Open 7-11pm daily. Main courses €9-€18. Credit AmEx, DC, JCB, MC, V. Maltese Gululu Kcina Maltija u Ftajjarija Set right on the seafront in pretty Spinola Bay, Gululu is synonymous with tasty Maltese dishes and one of the best for local fare in the area. Whether you’re after a light lunch, late afternoon snack like a plate of hobz biz-zejt (Maltese bread topped with tomato paste and a variety of ingredients) with a glass of wine or a full dinner, at Gululu you’ll be duly served. Apart from the typical dishes, we recommend one of the ftira options, a more rustic take on the Italian pizza and baked in a traditional Maltese baker’s oven
built using local stone. A favourite way to start a meal in this casual eatery is to order a sumptuous mizé (a variety of appetisers) to share. Access is from the waterfront or from Spinola Road above. 133 Spinola Bay (2133 3431, www. gululu.com.mt). Open July-mid Sept 6-11pm Mon-Fri; noon-11pm Sat, Sun; mid Sept-June noon11pm daily. Main courses €8-€19. Credit AmEx, DC, JCB, MC, V. Maltese Mama This friendly, family-run restaurant is as authentic as its name implies. If you’re up for something truly traditional, try the excellent rabbit, cooked either in a stew or fried in typical Maltese fashion, or bragjoli (beef olives). Alternatively, you could opt for fresh fish depending on what’s available. Keep an eye out for the specials board which is likely to serve up a few alternative local dishes, and we recommend you taste chef Elton’s delightful ricotta cakes before leaving. Al fresco dining is also an option here. Paceville Avenue (2737 7024, www. maltesemama.com). Open May-Sept 6.30-11pm daily; Oct-Apr 6.3010.30pm daily. Main courses €20. Credit AmEx, DC, JCB, MC, V.
C R I T I C S ’ C HO I C E
The best burgers around
Burger joints have been sprouting at an unprecedented rate recently – some with predominantly classic choices, others with gourmet flavours. Here’s a pick of the top burger places around and the best of what they offer. Badass Burgers You’re going to have a hard time choosing here, but we’re going to suggest The Daddy burger – a beef patty with lettuce, onion, tomato, cheddar cheese, bacon, jalapenos, barbecue sauce and onion rings – excellent! See p76. Chocafé Far beyond the town of St Julian’s, this eatery is gaining a reputation for a range of delicious homemade burgers, including the cheese and bacon, the salmon burger and even the blueberry burger varieties. See p99.
Mediterranean The Avenue This hotspot in the very heart of Paceville, known for hearty food and large portions, is a firm favourite and one of the busiest restaurants for a casual meal. The menu at The Avenue is huge, encompassing just about
Hard Rock Café Indulge in the finger-licking mushroom and Swiss burger – a beef patty smothered with sautéed mushrooms and Swiss cheese, as well as lettuce, tomato and onion. Unforgettable! See p73. Just Burger The burgers here are classic and simple, with many options for vegetarians and vegans too, such as the chickpea burger, halloumi burger and pumpkin varieties. Simple, tasty and invariably good. See p73. New York Best You can choose from several super tempting daily specials, but if you’d like a sought-after regular we recommend the New Orleans with Jack Daniel’s, bacon, jam and Gouda cheese, or the Mexican burger with jalapenos and cream cheese. See p105.
Chapter One. See p77.
74 Time Out Malta & Gozo for Visitors 2015/16
Shoreditch Big eaters will have a field day here as the portions are generous and every burger is juicy – tuck into the East London burger with cheese, bacon, a fried egg and crispy onions, and you won’t be disappointed. See p73.