Sliema, the picturesque seaside town in Malta, has long been a hub for locals and tourists alike. Renowned for its stunning promenades, vibrant nightlife, and thriving dining scene, Sliema offers something for everyone. But in 2026, its culinary world has reached new heights, with a surge of innovative and budget-friendly restaurants catering to health-conscious diners. Whether you’re a foodie looking to indulge or simply on the hunt for good food without breaking the bank, Sliema has got you covered.
Sliema’s Dining Scene in 2026
Sliema embodies the perfect blend of local Maltese traditions and international culinary influences. Its proximity to Valletta and St. Julian’s expands the dining possibilities, offering many affordable eateries with a focus on quality ingredients and sustainability. The emphasis on fresh, seasonal produce and innovative cooking techniques ensures that dining out remains an exciting affair, even for those keeping an eye on their budget.
The Top 10 Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Sliema
1. Hole in the Wall
Check out Hole in the Wall’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Visit Hole in the Wall’s official page
One of Sliema’s most eclectic dining locations, Hole in the Wall is famed for its lively atmosphere and creative cocktails. This pub offers an alternative vibe that appeals to locals and tourists seeking casual yet flavorful pub-style dishes. Though not explicitly focused on health, the menu offers some lighter options alongside its indulgent bites, making it a great spot for moderation with flair.
2. Ta’ Kris
Check out Ta’ Kris’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Located near Sliema in Valletta, Ta’ Kris is a staple for authentic Maltese cuisine. Serving traditional dishes like rabbit stew (fenkata) and lampuki pie, the restaurant champions fresh, locally sourced ingredients. Its healthy and hearty portions ensure you enjoy the flavors of Malta without guilt. Diners appreciate its warm atmosphere and affordability.
3. Suruchi
Check out Suruchi’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
A short journey to Valletta reveals Suruchi, an Indian-inspired eatery offering a variety of flavorful and affordable dishes. Known for its aromatic spices and diverse menu, Suruchi also caters to health-conscious diners with lighter curry options and vegetable-based meals. Locals recommend it for a taste of international flair at wallet-friendly prices.
4. Cafe Cuba
Check out Cafe Cuba’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Nestled in Sliema, Cafe Cuba provides a relaxed and friendly vibe while serving a mix of international and Mediterranean dishes. The menu includes healthy options like fresh salads and grilled seafood, making it ideal for those looking out for balanced meals. Tourists especially flock here for the venue’s versatility and great value.
5. Il Fortizza
Check out Il Fortizza’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
At the scenic Sliema Promenade, Il Fortizza combines affordability with breathtaking views. This Mediterranean restaurant showcases dishes made from seasonal ingredients, offering options like lean meats, fresh fish, and colorful salads. Whether you’re dining solo or with a group, Il Fortizza is a great choice for a healthy meal with a side of stunning sunsets.
6. Grain Street
Check out Grain Street’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Grain Street is located in Valletta, just a short trip from Sliema, and is celebrated for its contemporary flair. This restaurant, already earning recognition in the Michelin Guide with its Bib Gourmand entry, serves innovative dishes that highlight Malta’s local produce. Diners looking for unique flavors and some nutritious options will certainly love this affordable gem.
7. Rubino
Check out Rubino’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Rubino, one of Valletta’s oldest restaurants, offers a historical charm alongside traditional Maltese food. Expect hearty stews and seafood dishes made from ingredients sourced locally. While indulgent, Rubino includes nourishing meal options that don’t compromise on authenticity. A must-visit for food lovers seeking both culture and value.
8. Sotto Pinsa Romana
Check out Sotto Pinsa Romana’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
For those craving authentic Italian food, Sotto Pinsa Romana in Valletta is hard to beat. Specializing in Roman-style pinsa (a healthier cousin of pizza), this restaurant is perfect for sharing meals with friends without straying into heavier fare. The affordability and quality make this spot a frequent recommendation for families.
9. Gululu Restaurant @ Spinola Bay
Check out Gululu Restaurant’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Gululu Restaurant near Sliema focuses on international dishes served up in St. Julian’s iconic Spinola Bay. The diverse menu includes options for all dietary needs, with fresh seafood and grilled veggies among their healthiest offerings. Its picturesque location only adds to the charm, making it a favorite among diners.
10. The Avenue
Check out The Avenue’s rating in our directory of Maltese Restaurants
Also in St. Julian’s, The Avenue is built for affordability without sacrificing quality. Known for generous portions and pub-style Maltese dishes, this restaurant also offers lighter options, including creative salads and seafood specials. The laid-back atmosphere makes it a hit among locals and visitors alike.
Verdict
Sliema and its neighboring towns continue to thrive as culinary hotspots for health-conscious and budget-savvy diners. Offering a diverse mix of options from traditional Maltese dishes to international flavors, the restaurants on this list combine affordability with fresh, quality ingredients. Whether you’re in the mood for scenic dining, traditional meals, or innovative dishes, this top 10 selection guarantees a delightful experience. So grab your appetite and explore these incredible gems, your taste buds and wallet will thank you!
FAQ on the Top 10 Budget-Friendly Restaurants in Sliema, Malta in 2026
1. What makes Sliema a hub for foodies in Malta?
Sliema’s vibrant mix of local Maltese traditions and international influences, along with its focus on fresh, seasonal produce and sustainability, has made it a culinary hotspot. Explore Malta’s food culture
2. Are there any affordable restaurants offering traditional Maltese cuisine?
Yes, Ta’ Kris in Valletta near Sliema is highly recommended for its authentic Maltese dishes like rabbit stew and lampuki pie. Check out Ta’ Kris’s menu
3. Where can I enjoy Mediterranean food with scenic views in Sliema?
Il Fortizza on the Sliema Promenade offers Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views, featuring dishes made from seasonal ingredients. Learn more about Il Fortizza
4. Is there a good spot for contemporary cuisine near Sliema?
Grain Street in Valletta is an excellent choice for contemporary dishes and has been recognized in the Michelin Guide for its Bib Gourmand selection. Read about Grain Street
5. Can I find budget-friendly Indian cuisine in the area?
Yes, Suruchi, located in Valletta, offers a diverse menu of Indian dishes at affordable prices, catering to both spice lovers and health-conscious diners. Learn more about Suruchi
6. Where can I find lighter and healthier meal options in Sliema?
Cafe Cuba in Sliema provides a variety of healthy options, including fresh salads and grilled seafood, all in a relaxed environment. Check out Cafe Cuba
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8. Are there any historic restaurants in Valletta offering traditional Maltese food?
Rubino is one of Valletta’s oldest and most iconic restaurants, offering hearty Maltese dishes in a charming, historic setting. Discover Rubino
9. What is a unique Italian dining option near Sliema?
Sotto Pinsa Romana in Valletta specializes in Roman-style pinsa, a lighter and healthier version of pizza, making it ideal for a casual and satisfying meal. Learn more about Sotto Pinsa Romana
10. Where can I dine at Spinola Bay for a budget-friendly meal?
Gululu Restaurant in St. Julian’s at Spinola Bay offers a diverse mix of international dishes with fresh seafood and grilled options that cater to all dietary needs. Check out Gululu Restaurant
About the Author
Violetta Bonenkamp, also known as MeanCEO, is an experienced startup founder with an impressive educational background including an MBA and four other higher education degrees. She has over 20 years of work experience across multiple countries, including 5 years as a solopreneur and serial entrepreneur. Throughout her startup experience she has applied for multiple startup grants at the EU level, in the Netherlands and Malta, and her startups received quite a few of those. She’s been living, studying and working in many countries around the globe and her extensive multicultural experience has influenced her immensely.
Violetta Bonenkamp’s expertise in CAD sector, IP protection and blockchain
Violetta Bonenkamp is recognized as a multidisciplinary expert with significant achievements in the CAD sector, intellectual property (IP) protection, and blockchain technology.
CAD Sector:
- Violetta is the CEO and co-founder of CADChain, a deep tech startup focused on developing IP management software specifically for CAD (Computer-Aided Design) data. CADChain addresses the lack of industry standards for CAD data protection and sharing, using innovative technology to secure and manage design data.
- She has led the company since its inception in 2018, overseeing R&D, PR, and business development, and driving the creation of products for platforms such as Autodesk Inventor, Blender, and SolidWorks.
- Her leadership has been instrumental in scaling CADChain from a small team to a significant player in the deeptech space, with a diverse, international team.
IP Protection:
- Violetta has built deep expertise in intellectual property, combining academic training with practical startup experience. She has taken specialized courses in IP from institutions like WIPO and the EU IPO.
- She is known for sharing actionable strategies for startup IP protection, leveraging both legal and technological approaches, and has published guides and content on this topic for the entrepreneurial community.
- Her work at CADChain directly addresses the need for robust IP protection in the engineering and design industries, integrating cybersecurity and compliance measures to safeguard digital assets.
Blockchain:
- Violetta’s entry into the blockchain sector began with the founding of CADChain, which uses blockchain as a core technology for securing and managing CAD data.
- She holds several certifications in blockchain and has participated in major hackathons and policy forums, such as the OECD Global Blockchain Policy Forum.
- Her expertise extends to applying blockchain for IP management, ensuring data integrity, traceability, and secure sharing in the CAD industry.
Violetta is a true multiple specialist who has built expertise in Linguistics, Education, Business Management, Blockchain, Entrepreneurship, Intellectual Property, Game Design, AI, SEO, Digital Marketing, cyber security and zero code automations. Her extensive educational journey includes a Master of Arts in Linguistics and Education, an Advanced Master in Linguistics from Belgium (2006-2007), an MBA from Blekinge Institute of Technology in Sweden (2006-2008), and an Erasmus Mundus joint program European Master of Higher Education from universities in Norway, Finland, and Portugal (2009).
She is the founder of Fe/male Switch, a startup game that encourages women to enter STEM fields, and also leads CADChain, and multiple other projects like the Directory of 1,000 Startup Cities with a proprietary MeanCEO Index that ranks cities for female entrepreneurs. Violetta created the “gamepreneurship” methodology, which forms the scientific basis of her startup game. She also builds a lot of SEO tools for startups. Her achievements include being named one of the top 100 women in Europe by EU Startups in 2022 and being nominated for Impact Person of the year at the Dutch Blockchain Week. She is an author with Sifted and a speaker at different Universities. Recently she published a book on Startup Idea Validation the right way: from zero to first customers and beyond, launched a Directory of 1,500+ websites for startups to list themselves in order to gain traction and build backlinks and is building MELA AI to help local restaurants in Malta get more visibility online.
For the past several years Violetta has been living between the Netherlands and Malta, while also regularly traveling to different destinations around the globe, usually due to her entrepreneurial activities. This has led her to start writing about different locations and amenities from the POV of an entrepreneur. Here’s her recent article about the best hotels in Italy to work from.
About the Publication
Fe/male Switch is an innovative startup platform designed to empower women entrepreneurs through an immersive, game-like experience. Founded in 2020 during the pandemic “without any funding and without any code,” this non-profit initiative has evolved into a comprehensive educational tool for aspiring female entrepreneurs.The platform was co-founded by Violetta Shishkina-Bonenkamp, who serves as CEO and one of the lead authors of the Startup News branch.
Mission and Purpose
Fe/male Switch Foundation was created to address the gender gap in the tech and entrepreneurship space. The platform aims to skill-up future female tech leaders and empower them to create resilient and innovative tech startups through what they call “gamepreneurship”. By putting players in a virtual startup village where they must survive and thrive, the startup game allows women to test their entrepreneurial abilities without financial risk.
Key Features
The platform offers a unique blend of news, resources,learning, networking, and practical application within a supportive, female-focused environment:
- Skill Lab: Micro-modules covering essential startup skills
- Virtual Startup Building: Create or join startups and tackle real-world challenges
- AI Co-founder (PlayPal): Guides users through the startup process
- SANDBOX: A testing environment for idea validation before launch
- Wellness Integration: Virtual activities to balance work and self-care
- Marketplace: Buy or sell expert sessions and tutorials
Impact and Growth
Since its inception, Fe/male Switch has shown impressive growth:
- 5,000+ female entrepreneurs in the community
- 100+ startup tools built
- 5,000+ pieces of articles and news written
- 1,000 unique business ideas for women created
Partnerships
Fe/male Switch has formed strategic partnerships to enhance its offerings. In January 2022, it teamed up with global website builder Tilda to provide free access to website building tools and mentorship services for Fe/male Switch participants.
Recognition
Fe/male Switch has received media attention for its innovative approach to closing the gender gap in tech entrepreneurship. The platform has been featured in various publications highlighting its unique “play to learn and earn” model.
