Set to open on Republic Street in Valletta this April, the new spot will bring its famously overfilled Florentine sandwiches to one of the island’s busiest streets.

If you’ve ever spent time in Florence, you’ll know the drill well. A steady queue forms outside a small shop, people clutching enormous sandwiches, and a constant stream of customers coming and going.. Founded in 1991, All’Antico Vinaio built its reputation on simplicity done properly. Expect thick, airy schiacciata bread, sliced open and packed with high-quality Tuscan ingredients, served quickly and eaten just as fast.

Under the direction of founder Tommaso Mazzanti, the brand has expanded far beyond its Florentine roots. What began as a local favourite is now a global name, with locations in cities like Milan, Rome, New York, Los Angeles, London and Paris. The Valletta opening marks its 56th location, and notably, its first in Malta.

The opening is set for 25 April at 12pm, with daily hours running from 10am to 10pm from the following day. Early days will almost certainly come with queues, but that’s really part of the appeal, as the buzz builds.

As expected, the Malta menu will stay close to its Tuscan origins, with freshly made schiacciata and ingredients sourced from Italy. At the same time, there are plans for Malta-exclusive options, a small nod to the island’s own food identity, and a reason to try it even if you’ve had it elsewhere. More broadly, it’s another sign of how Valletta’s food scene continues to evolve. Alongside traditional Maltese restaurants and long-standing cafés, there’s now a growing mix of international names finding a place in the capital. For travellers, that means more choice, and more reasons to pause between sightseeing stops.

So if you find yourself wandering down Republic Street in late April and spot a queue that seems very enthusiastic for a sandwich, you’ll know you’ve found it. Will you be giving it a try? Let us know in the comments below!