Where Locals Eat: A No-Nonsense Restaurant Guide

Malta is full of tourist traps serving frozen pizza and "traditional" rabbit that tastes like shoe leather. But if you know where to go, the food here is incredible. Here is my list of places that won't rip you off.

For Maltese Food (The Real Deal)

• United Restaurant (Mgarr): It looks like a wedding venue from 1995. But the rabbit (Fenek) and snails are legendary. It's where Maltese families go for Sunday lunch.
• Gululu (St. Julian's): A rare gem in a tourist area that serves actual good local food. Great ftira and views of Spinola Bay.

For Seafood

• Tartarun (Marsaxlokk): High-end, expensive, worth it. The tuna tartare is life-changing.
• Roots (Marsaxlokk): Casual, right on the waterfront. Get the catch of the day.

Street Food & Cheap Eats

• Crystal Palace (Rabat): The Holy Grail of pastizzi. Open almost 24/7. 50 cents of pure joy.
• Buchman’s Snack Bar (Gzira): The best tuna ftira on the island. Massive portion for peanuts.