Ian Hinksman
You’ve had a heavy night, or maybe you’re just not built for mornings. Either way, brunch Malta is calling and not in the mimosa-soaked influencer way. We’re talkin’ proper food, chill vibes, and no-nonsense spots where you can eat, recover, and definitely get a decent coffee.
Here’s where we go when it’s time for brunch in Malta:
Central Perk Café – Friendly and Reliable
Location: St. Paul’s Bay
Vibe: Local favorite, bustling but chill
What to get: Full English breakfast
Central Perk Café is a busy local spot serving up everything you’d expect from a standard brunch joint such as eggs, beans, sausages and solid coffee. It’s not trying to be anything it’s not, and that’s exactly why we include it. For a reliable plate and zero frills, this is a go-to for brunch Malta style.
Knickerbocker Bar & Restaurant – Old School Full English
Location: St. Paul’s Bay
Vibe: UK pensioners and unpretentious plates
What to get: Full English, no questions
You’ll know you’re in the right place when the tables are full of retired Brits and the smell of bacon hits before you even sit down. Knickerbocker isn’t hip, it isn’t curated—but it gets the job done. Conveniently next to the Valletta bus station, it’s perfect for a pre-adventure feed.
77 Snack Bar – Gritty, Real, and Open at 5AM
Location: Gzira
Vibe: Working-class energy meets roadside café
What to get: Cappuccino + breakfast sandwich
77 Snack Bar opens early and serves fast. It’s the kind of place where you’ll hear old Maltese men debating politics while nursing their tea and chain-smoking. Sit outside for the full atmosphere or inside if you’re still recovering. This spot captures what brunch Malta really looks like on a weekday.
Two Buoys – Boozy Brunch with a View
Location: Spinola Bay, St. Julian’s
Vibe: Aussie-style brunch with cocktails
What to get: Waffles & bacon, plus a cocktail
Two Buoys leans into the boozy brunch lane, but it backs it up with a strong menu and a killer view. Perched above Spinola Bay, this second-floor terrace gives you everything you need for a slower, sunnier afternoon. Bonus: it’s one of the few places where “brunch Malta” actually includes cocktails that don’t taste like regret.
Manouche – Brunch with a Side of Pastry
Locations: Spinola, Valletta, Bay Street, Mosta, Rabat, Gozo
Vibe: Parisian-style bakery meets modern bistro
What to get: Eggs Benedict, croissants, specialty coffee
For something a little more refined, Manouche blends solid brunch staples with proper pastry craftsmanship. It’s not your cheapest option, but it’s consistent—and the coffee doesn’t taste like it’s been sitting on a hot plate since sunrise.
Loving our recommendations?
These are excerpts from Underground Guide Malta, our latest project. Before you grab that early morning lifeline and a swim, download the full version to get the full scoop on practical tips, music, bars, parties and all the other these we love to do on vacation.
