Floriana lies just outside Valletta’s landward fortifications, offering a quieter setting for exploring Malta’s capital area. Its broad open spaces, gardens and historic streets make it a useful stop for visitors looking for restaurants in Floriana or somewhere to eat before heading into Valletta.
Top Restaurants in Floriana provide a starting point for discovering Maltese food, although menus and opening hours vary. Look for national favourites such as pastizzi, flaky pastries filled with ricotta or peas, and ftira, traditional Maltese bread often served with savoury fillings. Rabbit stew, known as stuffat tal-fenek, and seasonal fish are other dishes worth seeking out where available. The island’s cooking reflects Mediterranean influences, with tomatoes, olives, capers and olive oil featuring widely. When choosing where to eat in Floriana, compare current menus for traditional Maltese dishes, casual lunches or a more leisurely evening meal.
St Publius Parish Church overlooks the Granaries, an extensive open space associated with underground grain storage and major public gatherings. The Argotti Gardens and the Mall Gardens offer green spaces for a walk between sightseeing and a meal. These landmarks give Floriana an identity of its own, rather than making it simply a gateway to neighbouring Valletta.
Floriana is convenient for travellers arriving through the Valletta bus terminus and for those exploring on foot. Check restaurant opening times before setting out, particularly for dinner, and consider booking ahead during festivals or large events.