Boasting seven acres of lush, landscaped gardens and within view of Valletta’s historic skyline, this year’s summer dining experiences at The Phoenicia Malta bring together signature Mediterranean flavours, al fresco ambience and elegant touches that reflect the storied hotel’s five-star hospitality. For a poolside lunch, after-work cocktails or a celebration dinner, this is a setting that continues to elevate every occasion.
At the heart of the season’s offering is Bastion Pool, Bar & Restaurant, an open-air oasis that serves up a full à la carte menu from midday, Monday to Sunday. Here, diners can enjoy fresh sushi, seafood platters and light summer dishes beside the hotel’s infinity pool.
As the sun dips, the energy shifts with a series of weekly evening events that have become staples of the hotel’s – and Malta’s – summer calendar. Tuesdays and Thursdays are dedicated to BBQ Under the Stars – a relaxed yet refined dining experience complete with Maltese antipasti, live grilling and sublime desserts such as imqaret with vanilla ice cream or orange and cinnamon crème brûlée.
Live music completes the atmosphere, with Jimmy Bartolo and Friends performing every Tuesday and acoustic sets from Amelia on Thursdays. Wednesdays bring a more intimate experience, with Dominic Galea’s Jazz Quartet playing as diners sink into a delicious meal by sunset, offset by gentle jazz music, a spectacular setting and the peaceful hubbub of a Mediterranean summer night well spent.
For those seeking a wellness experience in tandem with their culinary journey, The Phoenicia Malta combines rest and refreshment in one sun-soaked visit through its summer-ready garden spa package. This all-inclusive package includes a 50-minute ‘Harmonising Massage’ in the outdoor gazebo – which is nestled in the hotel’s vast gardens – as well as all-day access to the one-of-a-kind infinity pool and food and beverage credit to enjoy lunch or dinner at Bastion Pool, Bar and Restaurant.
Inside the fully air-conditioned hotel, Contessa remains The Phoenicia Malta’s landmark dining destination, presenting a modern southern Mediterranean menu shaped by local ingredients and seasonal produce, sustainably sourced from the hotel’s very own kitchen garden.
Open every evening for dinner and weekdays for lunch, the restaurant’s garden-adjacent conservatory brings the outdoors in, creating a light-filled setting that feels made for summer. Among Contessa’s many mouth-watering dishes is the signature tiramisu, prepared tableside to add a theatrical flourish to any occasion.
Those looking to slow the pace this summer will find the Art Deco-inspired Palm Court Lounge ideal for a late afternoon interlude. Afternoon tea is served here daily between 2pm and 6pm, with classic, vegan and gluten-free options on offer. Guests can also enjoy freshly baked pastries, curated coffees or a refreshing cocktail.
And then there’s The Club Bar – a favourite for both locals and returning international guests – where vintage charm and stylish decor complement expertly mixed drinks from a Negroni before dinner to a nightcap to round off the evening.
Guests of The Phoenicia Malta can further book culinary experiences that showcase the best of Maltese cuisine, such as a chef-led ‘Catch and Cook’ culinary adventure, local wine tastings and heritage dinners.
For reservations, menus and more information, visit www.phoeniciamalta.com.
