Ah, Il Gabbiano Restaurant in Gozo—what can I say? I’ve had the pleasure of dining there not once, not twice, but four glorious times, and honestly, I’d go back in a heartbeat. Each visit has left me with a belly full of deliciousness and a heart bursting with appreciation for this hidden gem tucked away in the charming Marsalforn Bay.
Let me take you on a little culinary journey because if you ever find yourself on the magical island of Gozo, this is one spot you can’t afford to miss.
Seaside Serenity Meets Culinary Bliss
The moment you step into Il Gabbiano, you’re greeted by more than just friendly faces—you’re welcomed by the soul of the Mediterranean itself. The restaurant is perfectly nestled along Marsalforn Bay, offering sweeping views of the glistening sea. Whether you’re there for a romantic dinner or to indulge in solo foodie therapy (no judgement, I’ve been there), the setting is pure perfection.
Imagine this: a gentle sea breeze, the soft sounds of waves crashing, and a plate of the freshest seafood you’ve ever tasted. You can practically taste Mediterranean in the air.
Freshness You Can Taste, Quality You Can Feel
What sets Il Gabbiano apart isn’t just the view (although, let’s be honest, it’s a stunner). The commitment to quality and freshness shines through in every dish. This family-run gem takes pride in serving authentic Maltese and Mediterranean cuisine that feels like a warm hug from Nonna—if Nonna were a world-class chef.
- 100% organic vegetables? Yep, straight from their own fields.
- Line-Caught Fish? Fresh from the local sea because frozen just isn’t in their vocabulary.
- Top-Grade Meats and Homemade Pasta? You bet—crafted with love and a dash of culinary magic.
This is thanks to Chef Patron Franklin Hili, whose passion for food is evident in every bite. You can almost taste the dedication in his dishes—like he’s inviting you to share in his love for Mediterranean flavours.
A Menu That’s Basically a Love Story
Every dish at Il Gabbiano feels like a carefully penned love letter to the Mediterranean. The flavours are bold yet balanced; the ingredients are fresh yet comforting; and the presentation? Instagram-worthy without trying too hard.
Starters That Steal the Show:
- Gillardeau oysters: fresh, briny, and straight from the sea.
- Bouillabaisse Fish Soup: A rich, soul-warming broth packed with seafood goodness.
- Local Red Prawn Bisque Soup: Silky, savoury, and utterly addictive.
- Fried Goat Cheese: Crispy on the outside, melty on the inside—chef’s kiss.
For the Pasta Lovers (aka Me):
- Spaghetti with Organic Tomato Sauce: Simple, fresh, and proof that less is more.
- Sheep Cheese Ravioli: creamy, tangy, and downright dreamy.
Meat & Seafood Dishes That Hit the Spot:
- Chicken Kyiv: Crispy, juicy, and bursting with garlicky goodness.
- Angus Ribeye: Cooked to perfection with a melt-in-your-mouth finish.
- Local Calamari: Marinated in ginger and olive oil—game changer.
Plant-Based Perfection:
- Spiralised Zucchini: Light, fresh, and surprisingly satisfying.
- Vegan Curry: Bold flavours with a comforting kick.
Save Room for Dessert (Trust Me on This One)
You’d think after all that I’d be too full for dessert. Wrong. Il Gabbiano’s desserts are not optional—they’re essential. From indulgent chocolate lava cakes to refreshing homemade ice creams, the sweet ending makes you question if you have room for just one more bite (spoiler: you do).
The Real Secret Ingredient? The Experience.
It’s not just the food that keeps me returning—the experience. There’s something magical about Il Gabbiano that goes beyond what’s on the plate.
- The staff? Warm, welcoming, and genuinely passionate about making your meal memorable.
- The atmosphere? Relaxed yet romantic, it is perfect for date nights and family gatherings.
- The vibe? Time slows down just enough for you to savour every moment—and every bite.
Plan Your Visit
- Location: St. Mary Street, Marsalforn, Malta
- Contact: +356 2155 4040 | Email: franklinhili@hotmail.com
- Website: ilgabbianorestaurant.com
- Dining Options: Dine-in, Outdoor Seating, In-Store Collection
Opening Hours:
- Tuesday – Sunday: 8 AM – 1 AM
- Closed on Mondays (because even culinary geniuses need a break!)
Why I Keep Going Back (And Why You Should Too)
Il Gabbiano isn’t just a restaurant—it’s a place where every meal feels like a celebration of life, love, and the incredible flavours of the Mediterranean. The magic never wears off, whether it’s your first or fifty-first visit.
So, if you ever find yourself in Gozo (or even need an excuse to visit), make sure Il Gabbiano is on your foodie bucket list. It’s more than just dinner—it’s an experience you’ll want to relive repeatedly. Here’s to many more visits—and maybe I’ll see you there next time. I’ll be the one happily drowning in Prawn Bisque with zero regrets.
