3 Local Vegan Spots with More Soul Than Salad
Think vegan food in Malta is all about limp lettuce and chickpea burgers? Think again. The island’s plant-based scene has been quietly blossoming, offering dishes that are full of heart, heritage and serious flavour. Whether you’re a lifelong vegan or just fancy something fresh, here are three vegan-friendly spots where the vibe is just as nourishing as the food.
Gugar Hangout & BAR, Valletta
Tucked away near Valletta’s bustling Strait Street, Gugar is part café, part creative hub, and 100% laid-back. Inside, colourful murals and recycled furniture set the tone for a menu built on wholesome goodness: vegan wraps, hearty soups and platters piled high with local produce. Grab a smoothie or craft beer, sink into a second-hand sofa, and chat with locals or fellow travellers. It’s not just lunch, it’s an off-the-beaten-track experience.
Balance Bowl, Gżira
Balance Bowl is Malta’s first fully vegan restaurant, and it feels like stepping into a friend’s bright, modern kitchen. Here, everything is homemade with care, from the creamy cashew cheese to colourful Poke bowls, curries and guilt-free desserts. The vibe is cheerful and inclusive, drawing a crowd of vegans, veggies and curious omnivores. Don’t miss their vegan bacon cheeseburger, proof that comfort food doesn’t need animal products to be soulful.
Alive Bistro, Marsalforn, Gozo
If you venture over to Gozo, Alive Bistro in Marsalforn is a total gem loved by both locals and visitors. Not fully vegan (it is vegetarian), but the majority of its menu is plant-based and constantly changing thanks to its creative chef‑owner. Nearly all dishes are vegan‑friendly, from hearty Buddha bowls and beetroot patties to homemade dips and raw or baked vegan cakes
Vegan travellers in Malta and Gozo have never had it better. More and more eateries, from casual cafés to elegant bistros, are adding creative plant-based options to their menus, not just as an afterthought, but as real highlights in their own right.
Have you frequented any of these eateries? Or perhaps there’s one you’d suggest, let us know in the comments below!
