Pastizzi: The 50-Cent Miracle

You haven't been to Malta until you've burned your tongue on a pastizz.

What Is It?

It's a diamond-shaped pastry made of phyllo dough (like a croissant but crunchier), filled with either:

Ricotta (Cheese): Soft, creamy, slightly salty.
Pizelli (Peas): Mushy curry peas. Savory and hearty.

The Culture

Pastizzi are everywhere. "Going for tea and pastizzi" is a national pastime. They are cheap (around €0.50), high in calories, and zero in health benefits. But who cares?

💡 WHERE TO GET THE BEST: Crystal Palace (Is-Serkin) in Rabat. It's an institution. It's open nearly 24/7. Grab a couple, a glass of tea (served in a glass, British style), and sit on the bench outside watching the world go by.