Pastizzi are Malta’s most famous street food — flaky, golden pastries traditionally filled with either creamy ricotta (pastizzi tal-irkotta) or spiced mashed peas (pastizzi tal-piżelli). Cheap, hot, and available almost everywhere, they are a staple snack enjoyed throughout the day by locals across the islands.
At its core, a pastizz (the singular form of pastizzi) is a pocket of incredibly flaky, multi-layered pastry wrapped around a rich filling. Baked to a golden crunch, they are usually served piping hot in a simple brown paper bag. The best part? They are usually under €1 each at traditional shops, making them the ultimate comfort food.
The Classic Fillings and Vegetarian Options
If you step up to a local counter, you will usually choose between two traditional varieties. Both of these classic options are traditionally vegetarian:
- Pastizzi tal-Irkotta:
- These are filled with warm, savory ricotta cheese. The creamy filling perfectly balances the crispy, rich, flaky pastry.
- Pastizzi tal-Piżelli:
- These feature a savory curried pea filling. They offer a slightly sweeter, earthier bite.
As food scenes evolve, so do local traditions. Many shops now offer exciting modern variations. You can easily find vegetarian options packed with spinach and feta, or caramelized onions. If you want something sweet, keep an eye out for Nutella or apple fillings.
Where to Eat the Best Pastizzi in Malta
You will find a pastizzeria on nearly every corner of the island, but a few spots stand out from the crowd.
Crystal Palace (Tas-Serkin) in Rabat
Located just outside the ancient, sandy-colored walls of Mdina, this tiny, unassuming shop is legendary. Locals travel from all over the island just to eat here. Tas-Serkin bakes fresh trays around the clock. We recommend grabbing a couple of pea pastizzi while they are still hot.
Jeff’s Pastizzeria
Jeff’s is a staple of Maltese street food. With locations scattered across the island—from bustling Sliema to the quieter southern villages—this chain is a highly reliable spot for a quick snack. They offer the classic ricotta and pea staples, alongside excellent spinach pies and other vegetarian-friendly bakes.
Sphinx Pastizzeria
Similar to Jeff’s, Sphinx boasts locations all over Malta. When you need a fast, hot bite while walking to the beach or waiting for a bus, Sphinx delivers consistently crispy, deeply satisfying pastries.
Next time you explore the sunny streets of Malta, follow the rich, buttery scent drifting from a corner shop. Order a couple of pastizzi, grab a local Kinnie soda to wash them down, and enjoy a true taste of island life.