Maltese cuisine is similar to Italian food, with added influences from other Mediterranean countries. However, the surprising local fondness for Sunday roasts has nothing to do with geography and everything to do with Malta’s long period under British control.

Valletta is most active at lunchtime. Rubino’s (53 Old Bakery Street, 2122 4656) is renowned for its Maltese stews and cassata, a ricotta-based dessert. Da Pippo Trattoria (136 Melita Street, 2124 8029) is a favourite among locals and serves a variety of Maltese and Sicilian dishes, while Ambrosia (137 Archbishop Street, 2122 5923) is an excellent choice for Mediterranean comfort food.

In St Julian’s, you’ll find Barracuda (194 Main Street, 2133 1817), overlooking Balluta Bay, which is a fine spot for fish, as is La Dolce Vita (159 St George’s Road, 2133 7806/7036), with views over Spinola Bay. For a fish specialist in the heart of Paceville, opt for Zeri’s Restaurant (19 Paceville Avenue, 2135 9559).

In Gozo, TaFrenc Restaurant (Ghajn Damma Street, Xaghra, 2155 3888), set in an old farmhouse, is the ultimate in fine dining on the islands.

The Café Jubilee outlets in Valletta (125 Santa Lucia Street, 2125 2332, www.cafejubilee.com), Gzira (209 The Strand, 2133 7141) and Gozo (8 Independence Square, Victoria, 2155 8921) are popular spots with locals for a snack with a coffee or a glass of wine, and serve food all day. Paceville Avenue in St Julian’s is Malta’s nightlife hub.

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