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Bahia Restaurant Review: Michelin-Starred Dining in the Heart of Malta

Course 2: Tuna Tartare

When in Malta, especially if you’re a foodie traveler, Bahia in the Corinthia Palace is a culinary gem worth making time for. Tucked inside this beautiful five-star hotel, this Michelin-starred restaurant offers an unforgettable fine dining experience with an imaginative tasting menu that takes diners on a journey through Malta’s flavors, from traditional elements to modern reinventions.

Location & Ambience

Bahia is located within the serene setting of the Corinthia Palace Hotel in Balzan, a short Uber or Bolt ride from the popular cities of St. Julian's, Sliema, or Valletta. Bahia has a newly designed interior featuring sleek, upscale decor and an open, interactive kitchen that invites diners to witness the culinary artistry in action.

The restaurant is known for its unique concept of "Past, Present, and Future" menus, which allow guests to explore different facets of Maltese cuisine through beautifully presented courses. Plus, for those looking to make it a memorable private event, Bahia’s intimate chef's table and private dining options add an extra layer of exclusivity.

1-Course 4, 2-Lounge Area, 3-Course 5, 4-Dining Room

The Tasting Menu: Highlights from Course to Course

Dining at Bahia in Malta's Corinthia Palace was like savoring the chapters of a beautifully written story, each course a distinct taste of the island’s culinary soul. We chose the eight-course tasting menu with wine pairings, where every dish came as a delightful surprise. My video of our experience is here.

Each course arrived with a beautifully detailed card explaining the connection to a different Maltese village, while our attentive waitstaff described the ingredients and story behind each dish, enhancing our immersive journey through Malta. Our journey began with a trio of snacks, each bite complex yet balanced, setting the stage with high expectations.

Course 1 brought us soft, warm bread served with salted butter and apricot jam—a humble yet memorable start, simple but full of flavor. Then, Course 2 introduced one of my favorites, a delicate tuna tartare with quinoa salad. Each bite was so fresh and light that it was like tasting the Mediterranean itself.

By Course 3, I was completely taken in—ravioli topped with escargot, a rich and indulgent dish that felt simultaneously adventurous and comforting. Course 4 showcased a stunning sea bass with saffron sauce, roe, and mussels. The seafood was expertly cooked and beautifully complemented by the rich saffron sauce.

Course 6

At this point, I was starting to feel full, but Course 5 turned out to be a showstopper: a thick, juicy cut of veal with a truffle dip and crispy potatoes. It was beautifully tender and packed with flavor, so I couldn’t resist savoring every bite.

The transition to sweets began with Course 6—a vibrant red date pastry and beignets that combined just the right amount of sweetness and texture. Course 7 followed with a honey tart resting on milk-flavored ice cream, delicate and light with just a hint of floral notes. Finally, Course 8 presented a trio of bite-sized desserts, each one seemingly designed to melt in the mouth and provide the perfect ending.

Each dish at Bahia is a reflection of the island’s essence, highlighting seasonal and local ingredients in creative, modern ways. And the plating? Exquisite! The attention to detail transforms each dish into a miniature masterpiece, and for food photographers, it’s a dream come true.

Course 7

Why Bahia is a Must-Visit for Foodies in Malta

Bahia’s imaginative and culturally rooted approach has not only earned it a Michelin star but also a loyal following among locals and tourists alike. With chef-led innovation and a venue designed to elevate the dining experience, Bahia strikes a balance between authenticity and cutting-edge fine dining. It’s the perfect spot for adventurous travelers seeking a taste of Malta’s evolving gastronomic scene.

So, if you’re looking for where to eat in Malta or simply a Michelin-star dining experience that stands out from the crowd, Bahia is a must-visit. From Michelin desserts to sophisticated food plating, this restaurant encapsulates the best of fine dining in Malta. Make sure to book in advance, consider spending the night at the Corinthia Palace, and prepare for an evening that’s as much about the experience as it is about the cuisine.

Kelly's Travel Tips

Travel Insurance: I always recommend getting travel insurance for international trips, especially in case of unexpected delays or emergencies.

✈ektatraveling.com is my go-to for reliable coverage.

eSiM Cards: Ensure you have cell phone coverage while driving around Malta!

✈For convenient and affordable eSIM cards in Malta, check out yesim.tech to stay connected throughout your trip.

My blog post may contain affiliate links where I make a commission on qualified purchases.

Corinthia Palace

Kelly Mahar

Kelly, 34, American. I've explored all 50 US states & 32 countries, quit my corporate job to inspire others to chase their dreams, and now teach how to monetize social media.

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