Liska Restaurant

Liska Restaurant is a seafood restaurant on Xatt is-Sajjieda, the waterfront promenade of Marsaxlokk, the traditional fishing village in Malta's south-eastern region. Marsaxlokk is known for its harbour full of brightly painted luzzu fishing boats and its Sunday fish market, and restaurants along the front draw on that daily catch. Liska is rated highly by diners and sits among the better-regarded seafood options on the quayside. There is no Michelin context; the appeal is freshness and setting.

The menu centres on fresh fish and seafood pasta. Fish is typically selected by the day's catch and cooked simply, grilled or baked, in the Maltese Mediterranean tradition, with local species such as lampuki appearing in season. Seafood pasta is the other mainstay, combining shellfish and fish with olive oil, garlic and tomato. Visitors who want the emblematic Marsaxlokk meal generally order the catch of the day and a plate of pasta to share.

The atmosphere is relaxed and waterfront, with views of the harbour and boats, especially from tables outside. Dress is casual, noise levels pick up around the Sunday market when the village is crowded, and the vibe is that of a holiday seaside lunch. Evenings are quieter and more romantic as the boats' lights come on.

A straightforward wine list of Maltese and Italian whites suits the seafood. Indicative spend is EUR 30-60 per person, depending on the fish chosen, as whole fish is often priced by weight. Reservations can be made by phone on +356 7937 2082 and are advisable for weekends, Sunday lunch and the summer months; a day or two ahead is usually enough, longer for large groups. Weekday lunch is the easiest time to get a front-row table.