We indulged in the taste of Italy at Peperoncino Restaurant in San Ġiljan, Malta, overlooking beautiful Balluta Bay.
Peperoncino, an Italian restaurant in Triq Il- Bajja, San Ġiljan, Malta, is a hidden gem that foodies must discover. The small terrace of the restaurant provides a breathtaking view of Balluta Bay. In contrast, the warm and cosy interior Peperoncino Restaurant offers the perfect atmosphere for a romantic dinner or a night out with friends.
Upon arrival, a friendly waiter offered us seats inside; however, seeing the view from the terrace overlooking the bay, we decided to brave the cold wind and took our place outside. The idea was stunning, and we were already looking forward to our meal. As we perused the menu, we couldn't help but notice the authenticity of the dishes on offer. The restaurant has something for everyone, from antipasti to pasta, pizza to seafood, meats and desserts.
Having settled in enjoying our wines, we started with a pasta dish - spaghetti with sausage - and a risotto with octopus. The presentation was beautiful for both dishes. The spaghetti was perfectly al dente. Tossed in with a flavorful but slightly abundant sausage sauce, it featured aromatic garlic tastes, sweet tomatoes, and a hint of spicy red pepper flakes.
A seafood lover's delight, the creamy risotto was infused with the essence of tender octopus and finished with a hint of zest and parmesan crisps. The texture was spot-on, with a slight crunch and a velvety finish. Probably our favourite dish of the day.
We decided to try the pork fillets and the Grilled Sea Bass for the main courses. Although the pork fillets were slightly overcooked, they retained a decent amount of moisture and flavour. The seared crust and herb seasoning were pleasant, although the dryness detracted somewhat from the experience.
On the other hand, the Sea Bass was exceptional. A masterpiece of simplicity, the seabass fillets were cooked to a delicate flakiness and complemented by a buttery sauce. The dish was served with lightly sauteed vegetables, making for a light and refreshing meal.
We finished off the meal by sharing a white chocolate tiramisu. A twist on the classic version, this tiramisu is a delectable treat featuring layers of creamy mascarpone and white chocolate with pistachio on top. The texture was airy, and the sweetness was just right.
Throughout our meal, the service was exceptional. The waiter was attentive and knowledgeable, providing recommendations. At the end of our meal, we had the opportunity to speak with the chef, who shared his plans for the menu. He revealed that he is constantly experimenting with new ingredients and techniques. His heart is set on providing his customers with an authentic Italian dining experience.
If you happen to be in the Balluta Bay area and fancy some Italian cuisine for a romantic night out or a fun evening with friends, Peperoncino Restaurant should be on your list. The food and service are very good, and the atmosphere is warm and inviting. The restaurant's commitment to authenticity is evident in every dish.
We look forward to returning soon to see what the chef at has for us next.
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