Are you planning a romantic date, spending time with friends, or simply seeking a sophisticated cocktail? Here are some of the best picks for a night on the town in Malta, from the historic streets of Valletta to the lively shores of St. Julian’s; each bar offers a unique window into the soul of Maltese nightlife.
Why Malta is perfect for cocktail lovers
Malta might be small, but its cocktail culture is huge. Thanks to its buzzing nightlife, Mediterranean climate, and mix of international influences, you’ll find everything from rooftop martinis overlooking Valletta’s Grand Harbour to quirky speakeasies hidden in side streets.
St Julian’s and Sliema bring the party vibes with flashy cocktail lounges and waterfront terraces, while Valletta caters to those who prefer classy, old-world charm paired with modern mixology. Add in the island’s affordable prices compared to other European hotspots, and you’ve got a cocktail scene that’s both stylish and accessible.
Malta’s top cocktail bars are destinations in themselves, offering unforgettable experiences through their creative concoctions and enchanting atmospheres. Let’s dive into the heart of Malta’s cocktail culture and discover the bars that are setting the standard for mixology in 2025 and beyond.
Thirsty Barbers
Thirsty Barbers Details
- Phone: +356 2133 4454
- Website: https://www.thethirstybarber.com/
- Cuisine: Bar, Cocktails
- Price range: €8-€12 for cocktails
Additional Tips
- Dress Code: Thirsty Barbers has a smart casual dress code.
- Reservations: While not essential, reservations are recommended for larger groups or on weekends.
- Enjoy the Live Music: Thirsty Barbers often hosts live music events, adding to the lively atmosphere.
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Chalice Bar & Lounge
Chalice Bar & Lounge Details
- Phone: +356 2137 5020
- Website: http://www.chalicebar.com.mt/
- Cuisine: Cocktails, Premium Liquor
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- We strongly recommend making reservations for this popular establishment, particularly during weekends and peak hours.
- Dress Code: Chalice Bar & Lounge maintains a smart casual dress code.
- Treat Yourself to a Signature Cocktail: Indulge in one of Chalice Bar & Lounge’s signature cocktails, such as the “Chalice Old Fashioned” or the “Maltese Mule,” crafted with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
The Gin Room
The Gin Room Details
- Phone: +356 7950 2000
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/the_ginroom/
- Cuisine: Cocktails, Gin
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Try a flight of gins: the result is a great way to sample a variety of different gins and find your new favourite.
- Ask the bartender for recommendations. The bartenders at The Gin Room are passionate about gin, and they’re always eager to help you find the perfect drink.
- Enjoy the live music: The Gin Room often hosts live music events, so be sure to check their schedule before you go.
¡La Luz!
¡La Luz! Details
- Address: 139 Tower Road, Sliema SLM 1604, Malta
- Cuisine: Cocktails, Mexican Tequila & Mezcal
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Try one of their signature cocktails: ¡La Luz! has various signature cocktails, such as the “La Luz Margarita” and the “Mezcalito.”
- Ask the bartender for recommendations. The bartenders at ¡La Luz! are passionate about tequila and mezcal, and they’re always happy to help you find the perfect drink for your taste.
- Enjoy the live music. ¡La Luz! often hosts live music events, so be sure to check their schedule before you go.
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Klay
Klay Details
- Located: St Julian’s, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Bar
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Enjoy a Cocktail at the Bar: After your meal, relax at Klay’s bar and enjoy a refreshing cocktail. They offer a wide selection of classic and contemporary cocktails, made with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
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Cafe Society
Cafe Society Details
- Located at 13, St John’s Street, Valletta, Malta
- Cuisine: Cocktails, Mediterranean, European, Fusion
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Enjoy Live Jazz: Cafe Society is known for its regular live jazz performances, adding a touch of elegance and sophistication to the atmosphere.
- Savour the Sunset Views: If you visit in the evenings, indulge in the breathtaking views of the Valletta sunset, which can be enjoyed from the bar’s outdoor terrace.
- Enjoy Their Signature Cocktails: Don’t miss Cafe Society’s signature drinks, like the “Cafe Society Spritz” and the “Mediterranean Mule.”.
Juuls
Juuls Details
- Located at 7 St. Joseph Street, St. Julian’s, Malta
- Cuisine: Reggae, Cocktails, Music Bar
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Catch Live Music: Juuls often hosts live reggae music performances, adding to the authentic and energetic atmosphere.
- Try a signature cocktail: Juuls’ signature cocktails, such as the “Reggae Rum” and the “Island Mule,” are a must-try for any reggae enthusiast.
- Enjoy the Sea Views: If you visit in the evenings, soak in the breathtaking views of the Mediterranean Sea from Juuls’ outdoor terrace.
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KAMY Cocktail Bar
KAMY Cocktail Bar Details
- Located at 60 Old Bakery Street, Il-Belt Valletta VLT 1454, Malta
- Cuisine: Cocktails
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Try a signature cocktail: KAMY Cocktail Bar has a variety of signature cocktails, such as the “KAMY Old Fashioned” and the “KAMY Margarita.”
- Enjoy Live Music: KAMY Cocktail Bar often hosts live music events, adding to the lively atmosphere.
- Savour the Neighbourhood: KAMY Cocktail Bar is located in the heart of Valletta, so be sure to explore the surrounding area after your drink.
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Hammett’s Gastro Bar
Hammett’s Gastro Bar Details
- Address: 33, 34 Tigné Seafront, Tas-Sliema, Malta
- Cuisine: Fusion, Gastropub, Central Asian
- Price range: €15 – €30
Additional Tips
- Try the Asian-inspired weekend brunch. It’s available from 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM and includes various dishes, such as dim sum, noodles, and curries.
- Take advantage of their bottomless brunch deal. For €24 per person, you can get 2 hours of free-flowing Prosecco with any dish of your choice.
- Enjoy the lively atmosphere. Hammett’s Gastro Bar is a wonderful place to go for a fun night out with friends.
The Black Sheep
The Black Sheep Details
- Located at 72 The Strand, Sliema SLM 1022, Malta
- Cuisine: Cocktails, Mediterranean, Bar & Grill
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Indulge in their signature cocktails: The Black Sheep’s signature cocktails, such as the “Black Sheep Old Fashioned” and the “Malta Mule,” are not to be missed.
- Enjoy Live Music: The Black Sheep often hosts live music events, adding to the sophisticated and lively atmosphere.
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The Londoner
The Londoner Details
- Location: 83, The Strand Sliema, SLM 1022, Malta
- Cuisine: British pub food, cask ales, lagers, a variety of cocktails
- Price range: €€
Additional Tips
- Catch a Live Show: Check the pub’s calendar to see what live music is on offer.
- Enjoy Happy Hour: Head to the pub during happy hour to save money on drinks.
67 Kapitali
67 Kapitali Details
- Location: 67 Triq l-Ifran Il-Belt Valletta, Valletta VLT 1427, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, Bar
- Price range: $5 – $27
Additional Tips
- Smoked Margarita: This cocktail is made with tequila, lime juice, agave nectar, and a smoke infusion. The smoke gives the cocktail a unique flavour that is both refreshing and complex.
- Spicy Margarita: This cocktail is made with tequila, lime juice, agave nectar, and a spicy chili infusion. The chili gives the cocktail a kick that is sure to wake up your taste buds.
- Cosmopolitan: This cocktail is made with vodka, Cointreau, lime juice, and cranberry juice. This tart and refreshing cocktail is ideal for a night out in the town.
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Yard 32 Gin
Yard 32 Gin Details
- Located at 132, Strait Street, Valletta VLT 1123, Malta
- Cuisine: Tapas, Mediterranean
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Indulge in Signature Cocktails: Yard 32 Gin & Tapas Bar’s signature cocktails, such as the “Valletta Mule” and the “Malta Spritz,” are not to be missed.
- Enjoy Live Music: Yard 32 Gin & Tapas Bar often hosts live music events, adding to the lively and sophisticated ambience.
Tiffany Lounge
Tiffany Lounge Details
- Located at Portomaso Marina, Level -3, St. Julian’s, St Julian’s, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Indulge in Premium Drinks: Tiffany Lounge & Cigar Bar’s extensive cocktail menu features both classic and innovative creations, crafted with premium spirits and fresh ingredients.
- Enjoy Live Jazz Music: Tiffany Lounge & Cigar Bar often hosts live jazz performances, adding to the sophisticated and lively ambience.
Happy Dayz Shack
Happy Dayz ShackDetails
- Location: Xatt ta Spinola, St Julian’s, Malta
- Cuisine: Bar, Cocktails, Mediterranean, Snacks
- Price range: €4 – €20
Additional Tips
- Happy Hour is available all week from 5:00 PM to 7:00 PM.
- Happy Dayz Shack has various cocktails, beers, and wines on the menu.
- There is often live music at Happy Dayz Shack on weekends.
- Review
Crust Bistro & Bar
Crust Bistro & Bar Details
- Located at 64, 65 Mensija St, Saint Julian’s, Island of Malta STJ 1960, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Italian, Bar & Grill
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Crust Bistro & Bar has a fantastic selection of wines and beers.
- They make amazing cocktails!
- Review
Pleasure Wine & Cocktail Bar
Pleasure Wine & Cocktail Bar Details
- Location: Schreiber & Triq Il-KnisjaSt. Julian’s, St Julian’s STJ 3081, Malta
- Map URL: Pleasure Wine & Cocktail Bar
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, Barbecue
- Price range: €€
Additional Tips
- Pleasure Wine & Cocktail Bar is a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
- They often have live music events.
Rumour Bar & Kitchen
Rumour Bar & Kitchen Details
- Location: 71, The Strand, Sliema SLM 1022, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, Bar & Grill
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Don’t miss their “Signature Margarita,” a blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served in a salt-rimmed glass.
Cave Bar
Cave Bar Details
- Located at Adenau Street, Mellieħa, Island of Malta MLH 2014, Malta
- Cuisine: Bar
- Price range: € (€€ in peak season)
Additional Tips
- Experience the Cave’s Magic in the Evening: The cave’s glow and the twinkling lights of Mellieħa Bay create a magical ambience at night.
- Indulge in Their Signature Cocktails: Cave Bar’s inventive cocktail menu features unique concoctions that will tantalize your taste buds.
- Host a Private Event: Cave Bar can transform into a private haven for your special occasion. The bar can accommodate various events, from intimate gatherings to grand celebrations.
Gourmet Cocktail Bar & Grill
Gourmet Cocktail Bar & Grill Details
- Location: 59 BThe Strand Sliema, Sliema SLM 1022, Malta
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, European, Cocktail Bar & Grill
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips
- Don’t miss their signature “Gourmet Margarita,” a blend of tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur, served in a salt-rimmed glass.
TemptAsian Restaurant & Lounge 360
TemptAsian Restaurant & Lounge 360 Details
- Location: AX The Palace, Triq Spinola, St. Julian’s, Sliema SLM 1542, Malta
- Cuisine: Asian fusion
- Price range: €€€
Additional Tips:
- Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.
- Spiced Margarita: If you’re seeking a cocktail with a touch of spice, TemptAsian Restaurant & Lounge 360’s Spiced Margarita is a must-try. This concoction blends the classic margarita with a hint of chili pepper and a touch of lime zest, creating a delightful balance of sweetness and spice.
Naar Bar
Naar Bar Details
- Address: 1 Triq Censu Tabone, St Julian’s STJ 1017, Malta
- Phone number: +356 2137 3412
- Website: https://naarmalta.com/
- Cuisine: Bar, Mediterranean, European, Fusion
- Price range: €€
Additional Tips:
- Make a reservation: NAAR Restobar is a popular spot, so it is a good idea to make a reservation in advance, especially if you are visiting on a weekend.
- Try the bottomless brunch: NAAR Restobar offers a bottomless brunch on Saturdays and Sundays from 11:00 AM to 1:00 PM. The buffet is a great option if you want to sample a variety of dishes and drinks.
- Enjoy the live music: NAAR Restobar has live music most nights of the week. The music is a great way to enjoy the restaurant’s vibrant atmosphere.
- Check the weekly specials: Naar Bar often offers enticing weekly specials on their food and drinks, so be sure to check their social media pages or website to stay updated.
Naan Bar
Naan Bar Details
- Location: 60/1 Britannia House, Triq Ir-Repubblika, Valletta VLT 1427, Malta
- Cuisine: Indian/ Bar
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips:
- Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.
The Skyroom Cocktail Bar & Grill
The Skyroom Cocktail Bar & Grill Details
- Address: 124, The Preluna Hotel, Sliema, SLM1605, Malta
- Contact: (+356) 2123 8000
- Price range: €€
Additional Tips:
- Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.
- Capture the golden hour: The best time to visit The Skyroom Cocktail Bar & Grill is during the golden hour when the sun casts a warm glow over the Mediterranean Sea. The panoramic views are simply breathtaking.
- Explore their extensive cocktail menu: The Skyroom Cocktail Bar & Grill’s cocktail menu features a diverse selection of creative concoctions crafted with premium spirits and fresh ingredients. Take your time to browse the menu and let the bartender guide you to the perfect cocktail to complement your meal.
Quarterdeck Bar & Lounge
Quarterdeck Bar & Lounge Details
- Location: Portomaso STJ4012, San Ġiljan, Malta
- Map URL: Quarterdeck Bar & Lounge
- Cuisine: Mediterranean, International
- Price range: €€ – €€€
Additional Tips:
- Make a reservation in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit on a weekend.
- Quarterdeck Bar & Lounge’s signature cocktails are a must-try, and the bartenders are happy to create personalized cocktails to suit your taste.
- Singapore Sling: Embark on a taste bud adventure with Quarterdeck Bar & Lounge’s signature Singapore Sling, a classic cocktail infused with the exotic spices and liqueurs that epitomize Southeast Asian flavors.
- Thai Tea Mojito: Embrace the vibrant flavors of Thailand with this unique cocktail, where the creamy sweetness of Thai tea is juxtaposed with the refreshing mintiness of a mojito.
Exploring the cocktail scene in Malta is not just about drinks; it’s about experiencing the island’s vibrant culture and hospitality. From the chic bars to the hidden gems tucked away in historical streets, Malta’s top cocktail bars offer an array of flavours and experiences to suit every palate and mood.
FAQs about Malta nightlife & cocktails
What is the dress code at Malta cocktail bars?
Most cocktail bars in Malta are relaxed with a smart-casual dress code. Trendy rooftop or club-style venues in St Julian’s may expect something dressier, especially on weekends.
How much do cocktails cost in Malta?
Prices range from €8–€12 at most bars. High-end hotel rooftops or exclusive lounges may charge €14–€16, but happy hour deals are common.
Do cocktail bars in Malta stay open late?
Yes. In nightlife areas like Paceville, bars often serve until 2–4am. Valletta and Sliema spots usually close earlier, around midnight or 1am.
Can I find alcohol-free cocktails in Malta?
Absolutely. Many bars now offer mocktails and alcohol-free spirits, making Malta’s cocktail scene accessible for everyone.
Which areas are best for cocktail lovers in Malta?
Valletta for elegant rooftops and harbour views, St Julian’s and Paceville for buzzing nightlife, and Mdina or Gozo for something quieter and more unique.
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