Bastion Pool, Bar & Restaurant Reopens for Summer at The Phoenicia Malta
One of Malta’s most distinctive summer dining destinations is back for the season. Bastion Pool, Bar & Restaurant at The Phoenicia Malta has reopened for summer 2026, bringing together Mediterranean-inspired dining, harbour views and a packed programme of evening events beside Valletta’s historic fortifications.
The summer menu places seasonal ingredients and fresh seafood centre stage. Diners can choose from dishes such as sushi, ceviche of the day, seared scallops and a salad featuring local ġbejna, tomato and basil. More substantial options include lobster linguine, poke bowls, a smash burger and grilled ribeye of beef. Behind the bar, cocktails incorporate local flavours, including Maltese bajtra, alongside an extensive wine selection.
As the sun sets, Bastion shifts into evening mode with its Nights Under the Stars programme. Every Tuesday and Thursday, BBQ Under the Stars offers a contemporary take on Mediterranean barbecue dining. The menu ranges from seafood dishes and swordfish carpaccio to premium meats prepared using a variety of cooking techniques. Among the highlights are Ostra Bora N.3 oysters sourced from Italy’s Veneto region.
Wednesday evenings take on a different character with Jazz Nights, pairing live jazz performances with a dedicated à la carte menu created exclusively for the occasion. Distinct from the daytime offering, the menu changes regularly throughout the season to showcase the freshest ingredients available, with dishes ranging from marinated local tuna to hibachi lamb rump and other chef-driven specials.
Live music accompanies the dining experience throughout the week. Acoustic performer Amelia takes to the stage on Tuesdays, while Wednesdays feature jazz performances led by Dominic Galea. Guitarist Steve Galea rounds off the programme on Thursday evenings, creating a relaxed soundtrack against the backdrop of the illuminated bastion walls.
This year also sees Bastion expanding its daytime offering with mid-morning breakfasts served from 10.30am. The concept is designed to cater to business meetings, small corporate gatherings and private events, offering an alternative setting close to Valletta. Guests can also combine breakfast with wellness experiences in the gardens, including morning yoga sessions.
From 22 June, Bastion will also introduce Aperitivo Hour, an intimate cocktail experience designed for small groups looking to enjoy a more interactive evening by the pool. Limited to just eight guests per session, the experience combines handcrafted cocktails with a selection of canapés, while expert bartenders guide guests through the techniques behind each drink. From refreshing spritzes and personalised margaritas to classic Negronis and Martinis, cocktails are tailored to individual tastes, ensuring no two evenings are exactly alike.
Speaking about the reopening, The Phoenicia Malta’s General Manager, Robyn Pratt, described Bastion as one of the hotel’s most popular summer venues, citing its combination of gardens, harbour views, dining and poolside atmosphere as a unique offering on the island.
Bastion Pool, Bar & Restaurant is now open for the summer season, with reservations available through The Phoenicia Malta at www.phoeniciamalta.com/restaurant-bars/bastion-pool-bar-restaurant/
