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Malta’s coffee shops are more than just a place to grab an iced latte. As you walk in, you’re hit with the smell of roasted beans and the sound of laughter. Baristas greet the locals by name, and you see a range of coffee drinks being served, from big cappuccinos to small, intense ristrettos. It’s clear that coffee is at the heart of daily life in Malta, shaping routines and giving travellers a chance to take a break.
If you want to learn about the best cafes in Malta, keep reading.
I’ve put together a guide to my favourite cafes in Malta. Take a seat, relax, and get a feel for how the locals live.
Understanding the Local Coffee Culture
Malta’s coffee culture is shaped by its mixed European heritage and relaxed way of life. A long time ago, the Italians introduced their espresso traditions to the island, and the British brought a taste for milder coffee roasts. Today, Maltese cafés combine traditional charm with modern comforts, serving as meeting spots. Older locals often pop in for a quick espresso, while younger people gather to catch up over iced lattes.
Kir Royal Café, Valletta
At Kir Royal Café (location link), you’re welcomed by small wooden tables, soft lighting, and locals enjoying espresso with homemade treats. Don’t miss their cappuccino, which offers a balanced flavour and perfectly frothed milk.
The cosy atmosphere feels intimate, where you might notice groups chatting softly or a solo traveler absorbed in a book. There’s no hurry, so take your time and stay as long as you’d like.
Caffe Cordina, Valletta
Caffe Cordina (location link) is a Valletta landmark. As you enter, you’re greeted by the sweet scent of traditional pastries, particularly pastizzi.
Inside, the high ceilings and decorative details give the space a classic feel. When the weather is nice, the outdoor terrace is perfect for taking in the sights and sounds of the city.
If you want to understand Malta’s history well, take a walking tour in Valletta. Look at my guide for the best Valletta walking tours.
Lot 61 Coffee Roasters, Valletta
Lot61 (location link) offers a modern take on Valletta’s café scene, catering to coffee lovers with its speciality focus. With single-origin beans and pour-over methods, it’s a haven for connoisseurs. The interior is minimalist, with a limited number of tables.
Cafe Circus Lisboa, Valletta
Cafe Circus (location link) is a small cafe offering both outdoor and indoor seating. It serves great coffee, fresh Portuguese pastries, and light bites like toast, making it a perfect spot to grab a morning coffee or take an afternoon break while exploring the city.
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Finca Vélez Coffee House, Sliema
Finca Vélez (location link) greets you with soft background music and walls decorated with maps of coffee-growing regions. They’re all about artisanal brews, often featuring beans from smaller farms. You’ll notice the baristas taking their time with each cup, making every drink a deliberate and precise creation. Their matcha latte is a personal favourite of mine.
If you’re hungry, they have a nice selection of cakes, sandwiches, and other treats.
Busy Bee, Sliema
Locals have a soft spot for Busy Bee (location link), where the older generation loves its traditional Maltese treats. While pastries and sweets are its claim to fame, Busy Bee also offers a wide range of satisfying coffee options, from simple black brew to frothy cappuccino. Be sure to try their Maltese desserts, such as cannoli with ricotta.
Note that there is no outdoor seating available.
Fontanella Tea Garden, Mdina
Fontanella (location link) captures Mdina’s timeless air, perched atop the city walls with a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside. Despite “tea garden” in the name, coffee lovers find plenty to appreciate. Enjoy an espresso or cappuccino while gazing across the island, with a gentle breeze on your face.
Try their famous cakes if you need a sugar boost.
Supernatural, Ta’XBiex
At Supernatural (location link), coffee is part of a commitment to the environment. They focus on using locally sourced ingredients and incorporate sustainable elements into their décor. You might enjoy a medium roast drip coffee, then explore the selection of artisan items, such as handmade jams.
Coffee Shop Etiquette in Malta
In many Maltese cafés, you place your order at the counter, but some offer table service. If you’re unsure, check with a staff member.
Tipping is not mandatory, though many leave small goodwill amounts as a gesture of gratitude.
Malta’s coffee shops are a mix of cultural influences, local traditions, and a desire to share the island’s relaxed atmosphere with visitors.
By visiting these spots, you get more than just great coffee. You get a feel for the island’s rhythm. You’re invited to slow down, chat with others, watch the bustling streets, or take in the centuries-old architecture. Take a sip, savor the moment, and maybe even strike up a conversation with the person sitting next to you.
