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The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants Awards Ceremony took place on Monday, 9 December, at The Xara Lodge, honouring the finest culinary talent across Malta and Gozo. This year, two standout achievements marked the event: Risette was crowned Top Overall Restaurant for 2025, and Sheldon Sammut received the prestigious Best Chef award, cementing his status as a leader in Malta’s culinary scene.
The 2024 Malta & Gozo Restaurant Survey attracted 3,951 participants who collectively reported an astounding 331,855 dining experiences over the year. Based on their votes, the 2025 edition of the Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants in Malta & Gozo was unveiled during the ceremony, featuring 33 new entries among the carefully selected 150 restaurants. This comprehensive guide is available online at http://www.restaurantsmalta.com and at select bookstores across the islands.
Celebrating Excellence: Top 40 Restaurants
The top 40 restaurants were recognized for their exceptional contributions to the dining experience, based on overall ratings and diner feedback. The leading establishments include:
- Risette
- de Mondion
- Rebekah’s
- Sole by Tarragon
- Da Luigi
- Galea’s Kitchen
- Ta’ Frenc
- Bastion Bar & Restaurant
- Paranga
- Tal-Familja
- Mamacita
- Ta’ Bertu’s Kitchen
- Scala
- Verbena Wine & Dine
- Lovage Bistro
- Sicilia Bella
- Casa Gringo
- Contessa
- La Mer
- ION Harbour
- Step 15
For the full list, visit http://www.restaurantsmalta.com.
Special Awards and Recognitions
In addition to the top restaurant rankings, several special awards highlighted the breadth of talent and diversity within Malta and Gozo’s culinary landscape:
- Best Food – Risette
- Best Ambience – de Mondion
- Best Service – Risette
- Best Chef – Sheldon Sammut
- Best Newcomer – Mamacita
- Best Maltese Restaurant – Tal-Familja
- Most Promising Young Chef – Neil Peresso
The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants Awards continues to celebrate the exceptional talent, creativity, and innovation that define Malta and Gozo’s culinary scene. With Risette earning the title of Top Overall Restaurant and Sheldon Sammut being named Best Chef, the 2025 edition of the guide showcases the islands’ finest dining experiences. Now available online and in select bookshops, it serves as an essential resource for food enthusiasts seeking the best that Malta and Gozo have to offer.
For more details of our awards ceremony visit restaurantsmalta.com
