Vecchia Napoli, Mellieħa

Head north for your Italian food fix, where the journey itself becomes part of the culinary experience. With ample parking and glass-walled interiors maximizing views of the bay, this welcoming eatery is set to become a flagship of a thriving franchise. The nautical theme complements the stunning vista, allowing diners to marvel at the beauty of the water in any weather. A pizzaiolo works expertly at the open wood-burning oven kitchen, framed by pretty patterned tiles, while solid curved wooden seating and a carefully curated cocktail list ensure a relaxed and indulgent experience.

Start with the freshest calamari fritti or the elegant capo di monte, each crafted to showcase natural flavours and light seasoning. Salads and antipasti, such as stracciatella di bufala paired with crunchy croutons or pan-seared scamoza with pickled pears and fennel, set the stage for more substantial plates. Leave room for the pizza selection, including the playful pizza spacca Napoli with Sicilian sausage and provolone, and signature pastas such as spicy nduja risotto with peas and pecorino. For dessert, indulge in the delicate sal di riso, a perfect balance of texture and sweetness, or explore other house specials for a truly memorable end to your meal.