The sun shone, the wine flowed, and the culinary delights just kept coming.
This summer we had a dream of a holiday when we were fortunate to be invited to a rather special weekend on the stunning island of Malta in the Mediterranean. My wife Shalina (Instagram @shalina.tobin) is an Instagram foodie whose rolodex of great places to eat is second to none!
We stayed the incredible five star Iniala Hotel in the old town of Valletta and were treated to unrivaled hospitality. From the chilled glass of champagne served upon check-in to the Eggs Benedict on the beautiful rooftop terrace for breakfast on the final morning, this stay was like no other.
While the surroundings and service were excellent, we were here for the food. ION Harbour, the hotel’s restaurant where Michelin starred Alex Dilling is Executive Chef, played temporary host to Michelin starred Simon Rogan for a “4 hands, 11 course” experience. Between them, the two culinary masters have five stars under their belts.
Amazing dish followed amazing dish, and all stood out against a glorious Mediterranean backdrop. The local wines were another delightful surprise. Of course since Malta is an island nation, seafood dishes like turbot, lobster, and Maltese pink shrimp shined especially bright. Every mouthful was a journey.
For a magical break, with a mix of Italian, Mediterranean, and British culture, architecture, and history, Malta is tough to beat. Throw in a five star residence and spa like Iniala and breathtaking food from highly awarded chefs and it’s a foodie’s dream!
No wonder the late Queen Elizabeth II, the most travelled Monarch in history, described Malta as her most favorite place of all.
