In an industry that can sometimes feel inundated by men, it is important to recognise the women who are helping to shape Malta’s culinary reputation. In honour of International Women’s Day, we are highlighting the female chefs and front-of-house staff that are carving a name for themselves, despite all odds.
Ramona Preca – Palazzo Preca Restaurant
Ramona Preca is the woman behind Palazzo Preca, a restaurant focusing on exquisite dishes in the heart of Valletta. Coming from a family of chefs and restaurateurs, Preca crafts each plate with passion and skill. Palazzo Preca received a Definitive(ly) Good Guide Award in the latest edition of the guide.
Roberta Preca – King’s Own Band Club Bar & Restaurant
Did we just say ‘family of chefs’? The second Preca sister to take her culinary skills to the professional kitchen, Roberta brings her family’s recipes and knowledge to the table every time at Valletta’s King’s Own Band Club.
Daniela Calleja Preca – Tal-Familja Restaurant
The third Preca sister – Daniela – has taken her family’s love of restaurants and run with it. She is the owner of Tal-Familja Restaurant, a place which, true to its name, is run by Daniela and her family. Tal-Familja won the Best Maltese Food award in the latest edition of The Definitive(ly) Good Guide to Restaurants in Malta and Gozo.
Hayley Marshall El Haiby – The Aft Galley
Another winner of the Definitive(ly) Good Guide Award, Hayley Marshall El Haiby is the accomplished owner of The Aft Galley, a Lebanese restaurant focusing on taste and authenticity.
“Let’s raise a glass to the women who cook, serve and lead with unwavering passion” – Hayley Marshall El Haiby
Letizia Vella – The Golden Fork
Letizia Vella is another star in the Maltese culinary industry. She is the Executive Chef at The Golden Fork, and her latest curated menu was inspired by her Maltese childhood and heritage. The Golden Fork also won a Definitive(ly) Good Guide Award in the latest edition.
Emma Warrington – Emma’s Kitchen
Chef Emma Warrington’s passion for the culinary arts is evident. In 2016, she left a career in architecture to open Emma’s Kitchen, and she hasn’t looked back since! Emma’s Kitchen was awarded the Best Vegetarian Restaurant award in the 2025 edition of the guide.
“Working in catering was, and remains, a passion project for me. The industry is definitely not without its challenges, but I am lucky to have a wonderful team supporting me. I look forward to many more years of bringing nourishing, wholesome food to our customers.” – Emma Warrington
Amruda & Aishwarya – Naan Bar, MÉZ, Chatterbox
Amruda & Aishwarya are sisters working side by side in the catering industry. They currently run Naan Bar, MÉZ, and Chatterbox – and they don’t show any signs of slowing down! All three restaurants won a Definitive(ly) Good Guide Award in 2025.
These 8 inspiring women are at the centre of the culinary field in Malta. Their skill and passion are an inspiration to many, and we look forward to seeing what they have in store for us in the next few years!
