The Complete Guide to Vegan Restaurants for food lovers in Malta (2025)

Introduction to Vegan Dining in Malta

Malta's vegan dining scene has experienced remarkable growth in recent years, transforming from a niche market to a thriving culinary movement that caters to both locals and health-conscious tourists. With over 28.7% of Malta's population classified as obese according to recent EU health statistics, the island has embraced plant-based dining as a solution to promote healthier lifestyles while preserving its rich culinary heritage.

The Mediterranean location provides Malta with abundant access to fresh vegetables, fruits, legumes, and herbs that form the foundation of exceptional vegan cuisine. From traditional dishes like ful (fava beans) and kapunata (Maltese ratatouille) to innovative plant-based interpretations of classic Maltese fare, the island offers an impressive array of vegan dining options.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about vegan dining in Malta in 2025, including the best restaurants, hidden gems, traditional vegan-friendly dishes, nutritional insights, and practical tips for maintaining a plant-based diet while exploring this Mediterranean paradise.

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Top Vegan Restaurants by Location

Valletta - The Capital's Vegan Scene

Soul Food

• Address: 76 Merchants Street, Valletta
• Specialties: International vegan cuisine, comfort food classics
• Must-try: Cashew mac and cheese, Buddha bowls, raw desserts
• Price Range: €€ (€15-25 per person)
• Insider Tip: Visit during lunch for their daily specials featuring locally sourced ingredients

Gugar

• Address: 95 Archbishop Street, Valletta
• Specialties: Innovative plant-based sandwiches and wraps
• Must-try: The "Impossible" sandwich, quinoa tabbouleh wrap
• Price Range: € (€8-15 per person)
• Nutrition Highlight: High-protein options with added superfood ingredients

The Bagel Hole

• Address: 267 Republic Street, Valletta
• Specialties: Artisanal vegan bagels, spreads, and toppings
• Must-try: Everything bagel with cashew cream cheese, avocado smash
• Price Range: € (€6-12 per person)

St. Julian's & Sliema Area

Balance Bowl

• Address: 182 Triq Ix-Xatt, Gżira
• Specialties: 100% vegan restaurant with focus on wholesome bowls
• Must-try: Dragon bowl with tahini dressing, chocolate avocado mousse
• Price Range: €€ (€12-20 per person)
• Health Focus: Macro-balanced meals with complete amino acid profiles

Lot Sixty-One Coffee Roasters

• Address: Spinola Bay, St. Julian's
• Specialties: Specialty coffee with extensive vegan milk options
• Must-try: Oat milk cortado, vegan banana bread, acai bowls
• Price Range: € (€5-12 per person)

Caffe Berry (Sliema)

• Address: Triq it-Torri, Sliema
• Specialties: Vegan pastries, sandwiches, and specialty drinks
• Must-try: Vegan croissants, plant milk lattes, quinoa salad
• Price Range: € (€6-14 per person)

Mdina & Surroundings

Coogi's Restaurant & Tea Garden

• Address: Holy Cross Street, Mdina
• Specialties: Garden-to-table dining with extensive vegan menu
• Must-try: Stuffed aubergine, Mediterranean mezze platter
• Price Range: €€€ (€20-35 per person)
• Ambiance: Historic setting with panoramic views

Gozo

Il Panzier

• Address: Triq l-Imġarr, Għarb, Gozo
• Specialties: Authentic Sicilian-style vegan cuisine
• Must-try: Vegan caponata, plant-based cannoli
• Price Range: €€ (€15-25 per person)
• Special Feature: Uses traditional Sicilian vegan recipes passed down through generations

Alive Bistro

• Address: Triq San Ġorġ, Victoria, Gozo
• Specialties: Vegetarian restaurant with many vegan options
• Must-try: Vegan cheese board, quinoa-stuffed peppers
• Price Range: €€ (€12-22 per person)

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Traditional Maltese Dishes That Are Naturally Vegan

Malta's culinary heritage includes several dishes that are naturally plant-based, making it easier for vegans to enjoy authentic local flavors:

Dish	Description	Nutritional Benefits	Where to Find
Ful	Slow-cooked fava beans with garlic, herbs, and olive oil	High in protein (8g per serving), fiber, and folate	Most traditional restaurants
Kapunata	Maltese ratatouille with eggplant, tomatoes, and capers	Rich in antioxidants, vitamins A and C	Soul Food, local family restaurants
Bigilla	Broad bean paste served as a dip	Excellent source of plant protein and iron	Traditional mezze platters
Ħobż biż-żejt	Traditional bread with tomatoes, olive oil, and herbs	Heart-healthy fats from olive oil	Can be veganized at most restaurants
Stuffed Marrows	Zucchini stuffed with rice, herbs, and vegetables	High in vitamin C and potassium	Request without cheese at family restaurants

Recipe: Traditional Maltese Kapunata (Vegan Version)

Ingredients:

• 2 large eggplants, cubed
• 4 large tomatoes, chopped
• 1 large onion, sliced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tbsp capers
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Fresh basil and mint
• Salt and black pepper

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat
2. Sauté onions until translucent (5 minutes)
3. Add eggplant cubes and cook until golden (10 minutes)
4. Add tomatoes, garlic, and capers
5. Season with herbs, salt, and pepper
6. Simmer for 20-25 minutes until vegetables are tender
7. Serve warm or at room temperature

Nutritional Information: 180 calories per serving, 5g protein, 8g fiber

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Nutritional Benefits of Vegan Dining

Complete Nutrition on a Plant-Based Diet

Contrary to common misconceptions, a well-planned vegan diet can provide all essential nutrients. Here's what to focus on:

Protein Sources in Malta:

• Legumes (chickpeas, lentils, fava beans): 15-18g protein per cup
• Quinoa: 8g protein per cup (complete amino acid profile)
• Nuts and seeds: 4-8g protein per ounce
• Plant-based meat alternatives: 10-20g protein per serving

Essential Nutrients and Malta Sources:

• Vitamin B12: Fortified plant milks, nutritional yeast, supplements
• Iron: Dark leafy greens, lentils, tahini (pair with vitamin C)
• Calcium: Sesame seeds, fortified plant milks, dark greens
• Omega-3: Walnuts, flaxseeds, chia seeds, algae supplements

Health Benefits Specific to Mediterranean Climate

The Mediterranean climate makes Malta ideal for year-round access to:

• Antioxidant-rich vegetables: Combat sun damage and inflammation
• Hydrating fruits: Support optimal hydration in warm weather
• Fresh herbs: Provide natural antimicrobial and digestive benefits
• Seasonal variety: Ensures diverse nutrient intake throughout the year

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Best Vegan Breakfast & Brunch Spots

Weekend Brunch Destinations

Sunday in Scotland (Valletta)

• Signature Dish: Vegan full English breakfast with plant-based sausages
• Special Feature: Homemade vegan chocolate and oat milk options
• Best Time: Weekends 9-11 AM for fresh pastries

NAAR Restobar (St. Julian's)

• Signature Dish: Avocado toast with hemp seeds and microgreens
• Special Feature: Accidentally discovered gem with accommodating staff
• Health Focus: Superfoods integration in breakfast dishes

Lot Sixty-One Coffee Roasters

• Signature Dish: Acai bowls with locally sourced fruits
• Special Feature: Single-origin coffee with multiple plant milk options
• Nutritional Plus: Probiotic-rich smoothie bowls

Quick Breakfast Options

Dr. Juice (Various Locations)

• Green smoothies with spinach, apple, and ginger
• Protein smoothies with plant-based powder
• Fresh-pressed juices with immune-boosting ingredients

Eeetwell (Multiple Locations)

• Overnight oats with seasonal fruits
• Vegan breakfast wraps with tofu scramble
• Cold-pressed juice shots

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Vegan Delivery and Takeaway Options

Delivery Services

Uber Eats Malta - Vegan Options:

• Soul Food: Full vegan menu available for delivery
• Balance Bowl: Wholesome bowls delivered island-wide
• Dr. Juice: Fresh juices and smoothies

Bolt Food Vegan Selections:

• Eeetwell: Healthy wraps and salads
• Various pizzerias: Vegan pizza options with plant-based cheese

Wolt Malta:

• Plant-based restaurant partnerships
• Vegan meal prep services
• Late-night vegan comfort food

Meal Prep Services

Food for Fit Malta

• Weekly vegan meal prep boxes
• Macro-calculated portions for fitness goals
• Seasonal menu rotations

Green Mood Meal Prep

• 100% plant-based prepared meals
• Subscription-based delivery service
• Focus on local, organic ingredients

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Shopping for Vegan Ingredients in Malta

Supermarket Chains

Arkadia Supermarkets

• Best For: Wide variety of plant-based alternatives
• Vegan Section: Dedicated health food aisle
• Must-Buy: Oat milk, quinoa, nutritional yeast, plant-based meats

Valyou Supermarkets

• Best For: Affordable vegan basics and fresh produce
• Special Feature: Organic produce section
• Budget Picks: Dried legumes, seasonal vegetables, olive oil

Carrefour Malta

• Best For: International vegan brands
• Specialty Items: Vegan cheese alternatives, plant-based yogurts
• Frozen Section: Extensive plant-based meal options

Health Food Stores

Holland & Barrett

• Locations: Multiple across Malta
• Specialties: Vegan supplements, protein powders, superfoods
• Expert Tip: Ask staff about new product arrivals

Wellbees Supermarket

• Location: Sliema and other locations
• Focus: Organic and health-conscious products
• Unique Items: Raw vegan snacks, specialty plant milks

Local Markets

Marsaxlokk Sunday Market

• Best For: Fresh, seasonal produce
• Timing: Early morning for best selection
• Bargaining: Prices become more flexible later in the day

Valletta Farmers Market

• When: Saturday mornings
• Specialty: Local, organic vegetables and herbs
• Connection: Meet local farmers and learn about seasonal produce

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Seasonal Vegan Menu Highlights

Spring (March-May)

Seasonal Produce: Artichokes, broad beans, wild asparagus, strawberries Featured Dishes:

• Wild asparagus risotto at Soul Food
• Broad bean and mint salad at Balance Bowl
• Strawberry and basil smoothies at Dr. Juice

Summer (June-August)

Seasonal Produce: Tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, melons, grapes Featured Dishes:

• Gazpacho with local tomatoes
• Grilled vegetable platters with herb oils
• Watermelon and mint agua fresca

Autumn (September-November)

Seasonal Produce: Pumpkins, sweet potatoes, pomegranates, figs Featured Dishes:

• Roasted pumpkin soup with coconut milk
• Fig and walnut salads
• Sweet potato and quinoa bowls

Winter (December-February)

Seasonal Produce: Oranges, lemons, cauliflower, fennel, kale Featured Dishes:

• Citrus-based salads with fennel
• Hearty lentil and vegetable stews
• Roasted cauliflower with tahini

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Budget-Friendly Vegan Eating Tips

Daily Budget Breakdown

• Budget Meals: €5-8 per person
• Mid-Range: €10-15 per person
• Splurge Options: €20+ per person

Money-Saving Strategies

Lunch Specials (€5-8):

• Soul Food weekday lunch menu
• Eeetwell daily wraps and salads
• Local markets for fresh produce

Happy Hour Deals:

• Dr. Juice afternoon smoothie discounts
• Caffe Berry pastry and coffee combos
• Balance Bowl weekly meal prep packages

Grocery Shopping Tips:

• Buy dried legumes in bulk (save 60% vs. canned)
• Shop seasonal produce at local markets
• Join supermarket loyalty programs for vegan product discounts

Sample Daily Budget Meal Plan (€12 total)

Breakfast (€2.50): Homemade oatmeal with banana and nuts Lunch (€5.50): Eeetwell wrap with hummus and vegetables
Dinner (€4.00): Homemade pasta with tomato sauce and vegetables

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Insider Tips and Things to Avoid

Insider Tips

Hidden Gems:

• Ask for the "off-menu" vegan pasta at small Italian restaurants
• Visit local band clubs for surprisingly good vegan-friendly sides
• Check with hotel concierges - many have lists of vegan-friendly places

Best Times to Visit:

• Weekday lunches often have better prices and service
• Sunday mornings for fresh market produce
• Early evening (6-7 PM) for the best restaurant atmosphere

Language Tips:

• "Mingħajr laħam" = Without meat
• "Veġetarjan" = Vegetarian (widely understood)
• "Mingħajr prodotti tal-ħalib" = Without dairy products

Seasonal Considerations:

• Summer: Focus on hydrating foods and early morning dining
• Winter: Take advantage of hearty soups and stews
• Festival seasons: Many traditional sweets are accidentally vegan

Things to Avoid

Restaurant Pitfalls:

• Don't assume "vegetarian" means vegan - always ask about cheese, eggs, and butter
• Avoid ordering without checking ingredients in traditional restaurants
• Be cautious with bread - some contain milk or eggs

Shopping Mistakes:

• Don't buy imported vegan products without checking local alternatives first
• Avoid shopping during lunch hours (12-3 PM) when many small shops close
• Don't forget to bring reusable bags - plastic bag fees add up

Cultural Considerations:

• Don't be offended if older generation locals don't understand veganism - educate gently
• Avoid being preachy about your dietary choices - lead by example
• Don't expect every restaurant to know what "vegan" means - be specific about what you can't eat

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Recipe Suggestions

Quick Maltese-Inspired Vegan Meals

1. Vegan Stuffed Zucchini (Qara' Mimli)

Ingredients:

• 4 medium zucchini, hollowed out
• 1 cup cooked rice
• 1/2 cup pine nuts
• 2 tbsp raisins
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Fresh mint and parsley
• Olive oil, salt, pepper

Instructions:

1. Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil
2. Mix rice, pine nuts, raisins, and herbs
3. Stuff zucchini with mixture
4. Bake at 180°C for 35-40 minutes
5. Serve with tomato sauce

Nutrition per serving: 245 calories, 6g protein, 5g fiber

2. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad

Ingredients:

• 2 cans chickpeas, drained
• 1 cucumber, diced
• 2 tomatoes, chopped
• 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup capers
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tbsp lemon juice
• Fresh herbs (mint, parsley, oregano)

Instructions:

1. Combine all vegetables and chickpeas
2. Whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, and herbs
3. Toss with dressing and let marinate 30 minutes
4. Serve chilled or at room temperature

Nutrition per serving: 320 calories, 12g protein, 10g fiber

3. Vegan Maltese Honey Rings (Qaghaq tal-Ghasel)

Ingredients:

• 2 cups flour
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup agave syrup
• 1 tsp orange zest
• 1/2 tsp cinnamon
• 1/4 tsp cloves
• Plant-based milk as needed

Instructions:

1. Mix dry ingredients
2. Add wet ingredients and knead into dough
3. Roll into rings and bake at 180°C for 15-20 minutes
4. Drizzle with extra agave while warm

Perfect for: Traditional celebrations and afternoon tea

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Final Thoughts

Malta's vegan dining scene continues to evolve, offering health-conscious food lovers an impressive array of options that honor both plant-based principles and Mediterranean culinary traditions. From hidden gems in ancient Valletta to innovative cafes in modern Sliema, the island provides countless opportunities to explore delicious, nutritious vegan cuisine.

Whether you're visiting for a week or planning to make Malta your home, this guide provides the foundation for discovering the best vegan experiences the island has to offer. As Malta's health consciousness grows and its culinary scene diversifies, expect even more exciting plant-based dining adventures in the years to come.

Remember to stay updated on new openings, seasonal menus, and special events by following local food blogs and social media accounts dedicated to Malta's evolving vegan scene. Bon appétit, or as they say in Malta - "Saħħa!"

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Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is Malta vegan-friendly for tourists? A: Yes, Malta has significantly improved its vegan offerings. Most areas have multiple vegan-friendly restaurants, and supermarkets stock plant-based alternatives.

Q: Can I find vegan cheese in Malta? A: Absolutely. Major supermarkets like Arkadia and Carrefour stock various vegan cheese brands, and restaurants like Il Panzier make their own vegan cheese.

Q: Are traditional Maltese restaurants accommodating to vegans? A: Many traditional restaurants can modify dishes. Always ask about ingredients, as some seemingly vegan dishes may contain hidden animal products.

Q: What's the best vegan restaurant in Malta? A: Balance Bowl in Gżira is often rated as the top 100% vegan restaurant, while Soul Food in Valletta offers the most diverse international vegan menu.

Q: Is vegan food more expensive in Malta? A: Vegan restaurants range from budget-friendly (€5-8) to upscale (€25+). Shopping for ingredients and cooking can be very affordable, especially using local produce.

Q: Can I find vegan options at the airport? A: Malta International Airport has limited but growing vegan options. Pack snacks or eat before arriving for more variety.

Q: Are there vegan cooking classes in Malta? A: Several restaurants and wellness centers offer plant-based cooking workshops. Contact Soul Food or local culinary schools for current offerings.

Q: What about vegan options on ferries to Gozo? A: Ferry rides are short (25 minutes), but some vessels have basic vegan snacks. Bring your own food for longer day trips.

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