We went around the islands tasting some great stuff, bringing you our choice of 15 favourite burger places in Malta!
Table of Contents:
Our favourites:
Hungry Jake Burger Bar
Is there any feeling in the food world that beats the first bite of a rich, juicy burger? Tough one, isn’t it? Burgers are amazing. They’re not only delicious but also versatile. No matter your taste, there is a burger type that you will like.
Burgers are a universal food and come in many forms. Originally, the rich beef patty dominated the burger scene. These days, however, there is also the chicken, kangaroo, or donkey burger (yes, really), emu burger, chickpea burger for vegans, or the now standard ‘veggie burger’, invented to give vegetarians their fair share of goodness.
The common thing between them is that they are ground down and compacted into one recognizable form, the ‘hamburger.’
The origins of the burger
The burger's origins remain ambiguous, but the name is mostly attributed to the German city of Hamburg. Most people are convinced that the burger gained its name in 1881 from a gentleman named Otto Krause.
On the other hand, the Library of Congress in the United States contests this. It seems the US audience favoured the alternative story of Louis Lassen in 1900. The popular story goes that Mr Lassen ran a small lunch wagon selling steak sandwiches to local factory workers.
The smart man he was, Louis Lassen didn’t like to waste the excess beef from the daily lunch rush. So he ground, grilled, and served it between two slices of bread, and America’s first burger joint was born. Whichever the case, we thank them on Burger Day.
Let us not forget the burger bun. Starting as a mere sideshow to the beef patty, burger buns have become higher, fluffier, and more golden in recent years. Like the burger patty, alternatives to the burger buns have started to spring up, such as the doughnut burger, which we assume will have calories to meet your requirements for the whole day (or more).
Burger chains in Malta
In Malta, the burger is a popular food choice during social gatherings. We will probably celebrate Burger Day all year long! McDonald’s and Burger King Malta dominate the burger delivery scene, but many other amazing places sell delicious burgers.
There was also an attempt to create our very own Maltese version of the burger. Who can forget the Gbejna and Zalzett Malti Burger from the now-gone Fat Louie’s?
So, without further ado, here are the 12 burger places (in no particular order) we are suggesting if you’re looking for the best burger in Malta:
Blackpaw
Located in Qawra, Blackpaw is one of our top suggested places for Hot Dogs. But really, their 100% Angus burger was one we enjoyed—a double Angus beef patty alongside fried egg, crispy bacon, melted smoked cheese, crispy onion, iceberg lettuce, vine tomatoes, and chipotle mayo.
We also suggest their onion rings and, of course, fries!
Blackpaw on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/blackpawmalta/
Blackpaw Opening Hours: Mon-Sun 11:00 - 23:00
Blackpaw Location:
Danny’s Kitchen & Deli
We have been praising Danny’s food for some time now. We ordered the Crispy Chicken Burger, which consists of a buttermilk chicken thigh in a sesame seed Brioche bun with cheese, cabbage slaw, coriander, and harissa mayo.
We also got a side of salt and vinegar fries. Like all the food there, the burgers at Danny’s are simply great. The buns are really good, and the burgers are patty-dense and meaty. Get it accompanied by their great fries!
We have often visited Danny’s or ordered food from there and were never disappointed.
Danny's website: https://dannys.com.mt/
Danny's Opening Hours:
Monday – Sunday: 08:30 – 15:00
Friday & Saturday: 18:30 – 22:00
Danny's Location:
Crust Bakery Bar Bistro
We regularly recommend Crust. We think you should go if you are one of those few who haven’t been there yet. If you do, you may want to try Sean’s Burger, named after celebrity chef and Crust's founder Sean Gravina.
It consists of a 200-g black Angus beef burger with applewood cheddar, gherkin, lettuce, tomatoes, and their secret relish in a brioche bun. Great stuff!
Crust on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/CrustBakeryBarBistro/
Crust's Opening Hours:
Monday
09:30 - 16:00 / 17:30 - 23:45
Tuesday
09:30 - 15:00
Wednesday, Thursday, Friday
09:30 - 15:00 / 17:30 - 23:45
Saturday
09:00 - 00:00
Sunday
09:00 - 23:30
Crust's Location:
Olive3 (Vegan & Vegetarian options)
We enjoyed some great vegan dishes last January. One of these was ‘The Vurger’ from Olive3 in Mriehel. A sizable Portobello mushroom replaces the usual beef patty with rucola, avocado, basil walnut, tomato, and onions.
Special mention to some delightful hand-cut local potatoes – or better, roasted potatoes shaped like chips – which accompanied the burger.
Olive3 offers some great vegan and vegetarian options on its menu and is one of our top brunch places in Malta.
Olive3's on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Olive3Malta/
Olive3's Opening Hours:
Monday - Saturday
08:00 - 16:00
Sunday
09:00 - 16:00
Olive3's Location:
Burger’s Ink
It wouldn’t be a proper burger list without Burger’s Ink, would it? While Burger's Ink has several outlets in various locations on the Maltese Islands, our favourite is on Strait Street, in the heart of Valletta, where history has recently been meeting a new lease on nightlife.
Burger's Ink offers a great variety of burgers—15 to choose from—including a vegan and vegetarian option. While you’re there, try the pancakes, too! You won’t be disappointed.
Burger's Ink Website: https://burgers.ink/
Burger's Ink (Valletta) Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday
12:00 - 23:00
Burger's Ink (Valletta) Location:
Tiffany’s Bistro
In a prominent location, Tiffany’s Bistro is located on the Sliema waterfront and offers quite a food selection. Among other foods we tried, we were very impressed with their chicken burger.
The size of the chicken fillet, the texture, and the crunch at the first bite had it all. We highly recommend Tiffany’s Bistro if you are in the area.
Tiffany's Bistro Website: https://www.tiffanysbistro.com/
Tiffany's Bistro Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday
08:00 - 23:00
Tiffany's Bistro Location:
Hermanos Burgers
Another burger joint with various locations on the Maltese Islands that rightfully makes it into our list is Hermanos Burgers. We tried the Chicago Bacon from Hermanos Burgers. We got a juicy beef patty, a generous amount of bacon, melted cheese, crispy onion and mayo, all within a soft brioche bun. Added to that was a portion of sweet potato fries! We dug in. We enjoyed!
Hermanos Burgers Website: https://hermanosburgers.com/
Hermanos Burgers Opening Hours:
Monday - Thursday
11:00 - 02:00
Friday - Sunday
11:00 - 04:00
Hermanos Burgers (St Julians) Location:
Chubbz Burger Bar
Chubbz offers a pretty good Crispy Chick n’Burger. It features a juicy chicken fillet with a crunchy coating between two signature Chubbz buns. Unlike others, their food truck is always located in the same spot, off Triq tal-Labour, from Naxxar. This was their original spot, after which they opened new places in Zebbug and Zejtun.
Chubbz Website: https://chubbzburgerbar.com/
Chubbz Opening Hours:
Monday - Friday
11:00 - 24:00
Saturday - Sunday
17:00 - 02:00
Chubbz (Naxxar) Location:
Shoreditch
Located in the heart of Paceville, Shoreditch has become synonymous with great burgers and amazing pancakes. We recently tried the Hells Kitchen burger with devil sauce, and it was quite a blast. Watch us go on and try the rest!
Shoreditch on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/shoreditchmalta/
Shoreditch Opening Hours:
Monday, Wednesday, Thursday
10:00 - 15:00
18:00 - 23:00
Tuesday
CLOSED
Friday, Saturday
10:00 - 22:00
Sunday
10:00 - 23:00
Shoreditch Location:
Dan’s Van
Dan's Van specialises in burgers and hot dogs in the Nigret area on the outskirts of Rabat. We had a nice little chat with the owner, who told us about the history of Dan’s Van and what makes his burgers special. We suggest his Mexican burger (either chicken or beef patty).
Dan's Van on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Dansvanmalta/
Dan's Van Opening Hours:
Friday - Sunday
18:00 - 22:00
Dan's Van Location:
EAT (For the Love of Food)
If you're in Malta craving some serious BBQ goodness, look no further than EAT (For the Love of Food). This unique food truck, set in a charming vintage 1961 Morris LD, specialises in smoked and barbecued dishes that will make any food lover's heart race.
With a focus on high-quality ingredients and fresh local produce, EAT serves up mouthwatering meals that are perfect for breakfast, brunch, or lunch on the go.
Their menu is a carnivore's dream, featuring classic American BBQ favourites like pulled meats, Philly Cheese Steak, and top-tier burgers. The attention to detail is evident in the food and setup, with a cast iron smoker that's a showstopper.
The Mosta location offers a picturesque view that complements the rich flavours of their offerings. Each bite of their burger reveals a juicy patty, perfectly balanced toppings, and a fresh bun that ties it all together.
If you're in Malta, stop by and experience the genuine taste of American BBQ—it's a must-visit for any food enthusiast.
EAT Food Truck on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/eatmalta/
EAT Food Truck Opening Hours:
Mon-Fri 9AM- 3PM
EAT Food Truck Location (Mosta):
Ricky Jr's Smash Burgers
Ricky Jr's Smash Burgers has quickly become a sensation across Malta, and for good reason. Known for its perfectly smashed burgers, this place is expanding fast, with new locations in St. Julian's and Msida. What started in Qormi has captured the island's burger lovers, promising more sizzling flavours in convenient spots.
Smashed burgers at Ricky Jr's are a game-changer. Unlike traditional burgers, which are often thick and juicy (some with a pink centre), these are made by pressing a loose ball of ground beef onto a hot grill until it forms a thin, crispy patty.
The searing process locks in all the flavours, creating a burger with a satisfying crunch on the outside and a tender, flavorful bite on the inside.
If you're a burger enthusiast, Ricky Jr's is a must-try as it redefines Malta's burger experience.
Ricky Jr's on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Smashburgermalta/
Ricky Jr's Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday 11:00 - 23:00
Ricky Jr's Location (Qormi):
NOVI
NOVI is the place to be for an authentic American dining experience in Malta. Founded by a New Yorker passionate about great burgers, NOVI offers a menu filled with homemade American dishes, craft beers, and a vibe that's hard to beat.
They're committed to using fresh, locally sourced ingredients and authentic products imported straight from the USA, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavour.
With locations in Gzira, Marsaskala, St. Julian's and Msida, NOVI is all about putting a twist on old-school American classics, from its juicy burgers to its crispy, flavorful fries—which many say are the best on the island.
NOVI's Website: https://www.facebook.com/Smashburgermalta/
NOVI's Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday 11:00 - 23:00
NOVI's Location (Gzira):
Hungry Jake Burger Bar
Nestled near the iconic Mosta Dome, Hungry Jake Burger Bar is a go-to spot for hearty, indulgent fast food. This place is known for its massive burgers, many of which feature double or even triple patties, like their signature Dome Burger.
Beyond the beef, Hungry Jake also offers a variety of options, including classic chicken burgers, salmon burgers, and even vegan alternatives, ensuring there's something for everyone.
But it's not just about the burgers—Hungry Jake also serves up an array of fast food favourites, from loaded hotdogs to generously topped pancakes. Whether after a quick snack or a full-blown feast, Hungry Jake has you covered with its diverse menu and satisfying portions.
If you find yourself in Mosta, make sure to swing by Hungry Jake for a burger experience that's both tasty and fulfilling.
Hungry Jake on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/hungryjakemalta/
Hungry Jake's Opening Hours:
Monday - Sunday 11:00 - 23:00
Hungry Jake's Location:
Bandit (Pick-ups only)
On October 31st, 2023, Badit Burger closed its doors in Hamrun forever. It's an absolute shame. Why are we still mentioning it? It's a tribute to one of our favourite burger spots on the islands. Thankfully, they still do pick-ups, which you can order from their website.
Bandit provided us with arguably one of the best burgers we have ever had. Their buttermilk chicken burger, consisting of buttermilk-fried chicken thighs, gherkins, cheese, pickled slaw, and chilli mayo, was top-notch.
The Holy Trinity Burger, which consisted of a beef patty, buttermilk chicken, bacon slices, cheese, pickles, maple mayo, and ketchup, was the stuff of legend.
Hands down, two of the best burgers we’ve had. Amazing.
Did we miss any burger place that is worthy of this list? Let us know!
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