Emma Mykytyn Legligin Valletta: best Maltese tasting menu in Malta?
Looking for an authentic Maltese dining experience in the capital of Malta? In this review, we share why Legligin is one of the best restaurants in Malta for a traditional tasting menu packed with local flavour (if you are looking for a similar type of restaurant in Sliema then please also see our Il-Merill review).
We visited during a recent trip to Valletta and were impressed by the balance of traditional flavours and modern presentation.
About Legligin in Valletta
Tucked away in the heart of Valletta’s UNESCO-listed historic old town, Legligin is a cosy, cellar-style restaurant specialising in a seasonal Maltese tasting menu. There’s no à la carte here, instead, you’re taken on a curated journey through traditional dishes, local ingredients, and expertly paired Maltese wines.
The intimate setting, with its stone walls and rustic charm, makes this a standout spot for anyone wanting to experience authentic Maltese cuisine in Valletta, or indeed the entirety of Malta.
What to expect from the Legligin Valletta Tasting Menu
Dining at Legligin is a full experience rather than just a meal. There’s no menu; instead, you are served a carefully curated selection of dishes based on what’s fresh and in season. Booking is essential and we could only get a table at 4pm, which is still considered a lunchtime booking. Our table was guaranteed until 6:30pm but we were finished by 6. For dinner, expect to stay for 3 hours.
Prices at Legligin Valletta
The tasting menu at Legligin typically costs €37 for lunch or €48 for dinner. We think this offers excellent value for a multi-course dining experience in upmarket Valletta. Lunch consists of five courses, with an optional Maltese wine pairing of five wines for €30, or a premium pairing at €50, which we opted for. Dinner is typically seven courses, with the same amount of wine for £40, or again a premium option for £70. Scroll down to see how much we paid in total for our meal.
What we ate on our visit
While the menu changes regularly, you can expect a range of traditional Maltese dishes such as:
Maltese tapas including ġbejna cheese and local sausage. Served with a glass of Marsovin 101 Brut Rosé. This is one of only two traditional method sparking wines made in Malta. It had a pronounced aroma of strawberries and cream but had more of a berries and blackcurrant taste. It was pleasantly fizzy, dry and not too acidic considering it’s a brut.
Aljotta, a classic Maltese fish soup paired with Markus Divinus – Zafrana 2023. Zafrana is the Maltese word for saffron as it’s supposed to have a similar aroma. We didn’t really detect that but it certainly had an earthy aroma. This had a crisp green apple taste with a lemon finish and was fairly acidic and refreshing.
Course 3 was a rich and hearty rabbit pasta paired with Ta’ Betta – Philippe Villiers DOK Superior 2019. This had aromas of tar, rubber, leather, cinnamon, raisin and pepper, and a dry tannic liquorice and blackberry taste.
Slow-cooked pork cheek was course 4, paired with Meridiana – Celsius Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon 2021. With aromas of leather and cherry pie and a Parma violet, vanilla and blackberry taste.
For dessert, you do get a choice of around half a dozen options, and we picked: Pudding Tal-Hobz and Figolla served with Marsovin – Guze Passito 2025. It had quite an earthy aroma for a dessert wine. Sweet, with a plum and blackberry flavour. A bit like Port but without the ABV hit.
Pudding Tal-Hobz
Figolla
Wine Pairing Experience
One of the highlights of Legligin is the wine pairing. The staff guide you through Maltese wines, explaining each selection and how it complements the dish.
Atmosphere and Setting
Legligin offers a cosy, intimate dining space with a rustic feel enhanced by the vaulted cellar interiors, mismatched crockery, and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere.
This makes it ideal for date nights or travellers seeking an authentic local experience.
Pros and Cons
What We Loved
Authentic Maltese cuisine which changes seasonally.
A Great value tasting menu
Knowledgeable and friendly staff
Excellent local wine selection
Things to Consider
No menu choice
Long dining experience for dinner, so factor in time for your visit
Booking essential
Top Tips for Visiting
Book in advance
Inform staff of dietary requirements early
Arrive hungry (You’ll be wanting a lot of their Ftira bread)
Choose the wine pairing for the full experience
Is Legligin Worth Visiting?
Yes, absolutely, Legligin is one of the best restaurants in Valletta for experiencing authentic Maltese cuisine. Its tasting menu format, local wines, and intimate setting make it a standout dining experience in Malta. We paid €128.00 for two five-course tasting menus, with one premium wine pairing (five glasses) and bottled water but tip not included.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do you need to book Legligin in Valletta?
Yes, booking is highly recommended as this is a popular restaurant.
Does Legligin have a menu?
No, Legligin only offers a set tasting menu that changes regularly based on seasonal ingredients.
Who Should Visit Legligin?
Ideal for food lovers, couples, and travellers looking for an authentic Maltese dining experience in Valletta.
Is Legligin good for vegetarians?
Vegetarian options may be available, but it’s best to check with the restaurant in advance.
Where is Legligin located?
116-119 St Lucia Street, Valletta, Malta, within walking distance of the bus station and the city’s main attractions.
Book a table at Legligin
