If you’re anything like us, you love a good cocktail. Whether it’s a cheeky Sex on the Beach, a neon-blue Blue Lagoon, or something you’ve never even heard of before—cocktails are a vibe. But let’s be real: sometimes the classics start to feel a little… meh. That’s when your taste buds start begging for something new, bold, and totally bespoke.
And if you’re in Malta, there’s one spot that’ll have you sipping like Gatsby.
“A cocktail done right can really show your guests that you care.” – Danny Meyer
When moving to Malta, it’s all about sun, food and drinks! We found this hidden treasure named “The Thirsty Barber“.
Welcome to The Thirsty Barber – Malta’s original speakeasy-style bar
Tucked away in San Ġiljan (St Julian’s) on lively Ball Street, The Thirsty Barber is more than just a bar—it’s a full-blown throwback to the 1920s. Imagine hidden doors, dapper decor, jazz age flair, and show-stopping cocktails.
This hidden gem is Malta’s first-ever prohibition-themed bar, and trust us, it’s every bit as magical as it sounds. Inspired by the covert speakeasies of the Roaring Twenties—where alcohol was illegal but taste was everything—this place delivers a cocktail experience that’s tailored to you.
Custom cocktails that will blow your mind
You won’t just order a drink at The Thirsty Barber. Oh no. You’ll collaborate. The bartenders—masters of their craft—will ask you questions like:
- Sweet or sour?
- Tequila, gin, whisky, or vodka?
- Fruity? Smoky? Herby?
And then… they get to work.
The result? A personalised masterpiece in a glass. Each drink is a celebration of flavour, creativity, and top-tier mixology. No two visits are the same—unless, of course, you fall in love with your signature blend (which, fair warning, is very likely).
The vibe is immaculate, the service is next-level
When we visited, let’s just say one drink quickly turned into five. The cocktails were that good. It’s the kind of place where you linger, sip slowly, and truly savour every moment. The bartenders give your cocktail their full attention—right down to the garnish, glassware, and even how it’s presented.
It’s not just a bar. It’s a performance.
Meet the masterminds behind the magic
The Thirsty Barber is the brainchild of Matthew D’Emanuele, James Stanton, and George Adade—founders of Intheneedfor Ltd, a proudly Maltese company. Their mission? To bring sophistication, fun, and a splash of nostalgia to Malta’s nightlife scene.
Their commitment to creating an immersive 1920s experience is evident in everything from the velvet booths to the vintage decor and incredible menu.
“In the 1930s, anyone of any sophisticated status owned a cocktail shaker. Distinctive ones are easy to find.” – Roger Stone
Step into the past, sip into the future
So, whether you’re new to Malta or just passing through, don’t leave without experiencing The Thirsty Barber. It’s where history meets highball, and every cocktail is a journey through time.Dress sharp, drink smart, and prepare to be transported.
One final tip?
Ask the bartender for a surprise. Trust the process. You won’t regret it.
