STIL ŽIVOTA / LIFESTYLE
directly over the ramparts. Here you’ll want to don a silk kimono for breakfast and read Murakami beside the fountain. In a world awash with passing fads, the Phoenicia stands as a constant reminder of classic sophistication. For those who are nonetheless attract- ed by more rigid lines and aesthetic pre- cision, Sanglea’s Cugó Gran Macina is the perfect choice. This former military forti- fication has been converted into a mini- malist dream, with high vaulted ceilings, thick concrete walls and views that seem almost too cinematic to be real. This ho- tel, which sits at the heart of the Three Cities, brings heritage without dust and grime —heritage that wears designer shoes and is aware of the difference be- tween beige and taupe. Malta perhaps isn’t known for being a gastronomic powerhouse, but that’s part of the charm – you are awaited around every corner by pleasant surprises. And the restaurant scene is currently flourish- ing. Valletta’s Noni is a Michelin-starred restaurant that rejects pretentiousness. It has a chic interior, pleasant and attentive staff, and a menu that’s a feast of innova- tively interpretated local flavours. Its oc- topus with fennel is a dish that will make you rethink your life priorities. And, yes, reserve your table in advance. Occupying the rooftop above the har- bour, the restaurant ION Harbour by Si- mon Rogan offers an experience that’s equal parts visual and culinary. Unfor- gettable harmony is created by its pan- oramic views, seasonal tasting menu and carefully paired Maltese wines. Here everything is precise, sophisticated and irresistibly photogenic. Its polar opposite,
ROOFTOP
fish restaurant Tartarun, is located in the quaint fishing village of Marsaxlokk. Here there are no decorative plates and no hustle and bustle. Just the day’s catch, perfectly prepared, and a tasting plate of raw fish that would satisfy even the most discerning Parisian passerby. Evenings in Valletta begin at the heights — or on a roof, to be precise. The Roof- top at The Embassy Valetta Hotel offers cocktails with a view of the city skyline, but also a playlist that, slowly but surely, lifts the mood even higher. The Negroni Bianco is a cocktail that’s having its mo- ment in the sun here, and rightly so. Café Society is a hidden gem for those who like their bars to have a touch of mys- tery. A seemingly ordinary alleyway hides a place offering cocktails made using lo- cal ingredients like the prickly pear, and DJ sets that will easily keep you dancing until the early hours of the morning. For those seeking a fine aperitivo moment, Kingsway offers everything required: pro-
Malta is a place where the luxurious and the local are able to coexist in the most charming form. Hire a private boat and voyage to the island of Comino’s Blue La- goon. Arrive early or stay until twilight, when most of the tourists depart and the sea becomes as quiet as silk. Visit the 16 th -century Casa Rocca Piccola palace, which is still home to a noble family. You can bathe from the rocks near St. Peter’s Pool, like a local deity in vintage swim- wear. End the day with a glass of cham- pagne at Myoka Lotus Spa, and don’t for- get to call in at the shop Souvenirs That Don’t Suck on your way back. The name is as provocative as it is justified — with an offer of unexpected, cool and stylish- ly refreshing souvenirs that won’t end up in a drawer. Malta perhaps doesn’t have the reputation of Capri or Mykonos, but that’s precisely what gives it its charm. This is an island for those who prefer to follow their instincts, rather than stick- ing to maps.
secco, truffle chips and striped awn- ings that make the world appear more beautiful.
Tik uz kapiju Valete, nalazi se „The Phoenicia“, hotel koji je odavno legendaran Located close to the City Gate of Valletta, The Phoenicia hotel is already legendary
PHOENICIA
94 | Malta » Malta
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