LOA Restaurant in St Pauls Bay brings Latin flair to Malta’s coast—our Halloween visit explored bold South American flavours by the sea.
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Halloween Thursday was one of those nights when everything aligned perfectly — Halloween, Día de Muertos, and an evening out by the water at LOA Restaurant in St Paul's Bay.
The shimmering sea mirrored the city lights as we strolled to LOA's vibrant entrance. A light ocean breeze, soft enough to carry but not chill, set the scene.
Inside, the restaurant was alive with intriguing energy. Warm, dim lighting, artful decor, and a hint of exotic tropical flair created an inviting and slightly mysterious ambience that was perfectly suited for the evening's theme.
We prepared for a food feast and a few Don Julio cocktails; LOA did not disappoint. The Don Paloma and Don Scary Lemonade each arrived with their character, adding a playful touch to an atmospheric night.
If the cocktails were any indication, we were in for a great meal.
Cocktail Delights: Don Julio's Finest
With the Día de Muertos theme in full swing, we couldn't resist starting with a Halloween-inspired cocktail line-up. LOA's creative cocktails were as inviting as the setting, with the Don Paloma and Don Scary Lemonade emerging as instant favourites.
The Don Paloma hits with a punchy blend of lime and grapefruit, topped off with tajín spices on the rim—a flavour journey that took us back to childhood candy but with a grown-up kick.
Meanwhile, the Don Scary Lemonade balances Don Julio Blanco with lime, honey, jalapeños, and soda water, creating a smooth, earthy, and spicy drink to keep things interesting.
From Queso Asados to Pork Belly Delight
Food service began with the Queso Asados, a melty, perfectly seasoned cheese dish that set the bar high for the rest of the evening. Paired with the tang of our cocktails, it was a satisfying opener.
Next came the Tiradito di Salmon, a smoky, tender salmon with a subtle spicy aftertaste and a hint of acidity—ideal for anyone who enjoys a bit of depth in their flavours.
The signature pork dumplings sparked some debate at the table. While Charlene revelled in their creamy richness, I (Jon) found the flavour slightly lost beneath the texture. I'm not saying they weren't enjoyable; it's just that some enjoyed them more than others!
LOA's corn ribs had a sweet and pleasant bite, although a hint of more spice would have truly made them stand out.
But it was the pork belly that took the crown among the mains. Juicy and caramelised, it was a rich, succulent dish with just the right amount of crunch from a slight char. It was the perfect blend of savoury and sweet, leaving the strongest impression from the lot, especially on me.
The fried rice with brisket rounded out the mains, adding a comforting creaminess and texture, even if I found it just a bit under-seasoned.
Build-Your-Own Tacos: The Ultimate Interactive Dish
LOA's Build-Your-Own Tacos add an interactive twist to the menu. Served with an array of fresh ingredients—including guacamole, buttermilk, salsa, red cabbage, and queso—this was a playful way to dive into Mexican flavours.
We had the tempura cod filling, a light, crispy base that paired beautifully with the various sauces and toppings.
With a variety of tortillas (including flour, corn, and blue corn) available, what stood out most about the tacos was the freedom to customise each bite, engaging the experience and adding a fun, hands-on element.
Sweet Endings: Chocolate Fondant & White Chocolate Cheesecake
No meal is complete without dessert, and LOA's sweet endings were spectacular. The chocolate fondant was an indulgent treat with a rich, gooey centre that delighted each bite.
Paired with a lighter, creamy white chocolate cheesecake, the duo ended the meal on a high note. Both desserts balanced richness and sweetness without tipping into overly indulgent territory — an absolute win in our books.
Final Thoughts on LOA Restaurant in St Pauls Bay
LOA Restaurant certainly stands out among Malta Restaurants, not only for its seafront location in St Pauls Bay but for its creative approach to Mexican-inspired cuisine.
The unique cocktails, the hands-on taco experience, and dishes like the pork belly and chocolate fondant make it a lovely dining spot for anyone looking to mix things up in the north of Malta.
While we had minor critiques, LOA delivers a refreshing and fun take on dining out in Malta. Whether you're looking for a romantic dinner, a family outing, or a new spot with a view, you'll want to try this place.
LOA, we'll be back for another round!
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