San Paolo Naufrago Malta: A Must-Visit Viral Restaurant in Valletta
If youโre on TikTok or Instagram, youโve likely seen San Paolo Malta popping up on your feed time and time again. This unique restaurant has become a social media sensation, and for good reason! Whether you’re a local or a visitor, San Paolo offers a dining experience that stands out. But whatโs all the hype about? Is it truly worth the attention itโs receiving online? Letโs dive into my experience!
Experience
San Paolo is located in the heart of Malta, and it quickly becomes clear that this place is something special. From the moment you walk in, youโll notice a unique feature: youโre dining on the stairs. Yes, you read that correctly! Tables are set along a series of stairs, creating an intimate, cozy atmosphere that perfectly complements the restaurant’s historic surroundings. The proximity of the tables adds a touch of charm, though it can get a little cramped. If youโre someone who values personal space, you may want to make sure to book in advance or arrive early to avoid the inevitable crowds.
Speaking of crowds, itโs important to note that San Paolo is incredibly popular, and if you donโt book ahead or show up early, you may find yourself standing in a long queue. Thatโs a testament to how beloved this place is, though it can be a bit inconvenient if you’re short on time.
Food
When it comes to the menu, San Paolo doesnโt disappoint. The restaurant blends Mediterranean, Italian, Arabic, and British influences, offering something for nearly every palate. During my visit, I decided to try a few of the recommended dishes.

- Octopus Salad (โฌ15.95) – This dish was fresh, light, and bursting with Mediterranean flavours. The tender octopus paired beautifully with the tangy dressing and a variety of crunchy vegetables. It was a perfect starter.
- Bresaola Pizza (โฌ16.50) -Thin, crispy crust, fresh toppings, and the delicate taste of bresaola made this pizza an absolute treat. It’s a perfect choice for pizza lovers who crave something different from the usual.
- Lasagna (โฌ16.50)- Of course, no visit would be complete without trying the Lasagna, which came highly recommended. It was hearty, rich, and indulgentโcomfort food at its best. The layers were perfectly cooked, and the sauce had just the right balance of flavours. Itโs easy to see why this dish is a fan favourite. 100% recommend ordering the Lasagna, we enjoyed it more than the bresaola pizza.
Price
For the quality and experience, the prices at San Paolo are very reasonable. The dishes I tried, including the octopus salad, pizza, and lasagna, ranged between โฌ15 and โฌ16.50. While you may be paying a bit more than at some casual eateries, the unique atmosphere and the quality of food justify the price. Additionally, given the prime location and the buzz surrounding this place, itโs definitely worth it for a special outing or a food adventure.
Final Thoughts
Overall, my experience at San Paolo Malta was a memorable one. The stairs-dining concept is a unique touch that adds to the charm and intimacy of the experience. The food, blending Mediterranean and international flavours, was absolutely delicious, and the service was warm and attentive. However, the close quarters and the need for advanced bookings are something to consider before your visit.
If you’re looking for a dining experience that’s as Instagram-worthy as it is delicious, San Paolo Malta should be at the top of your list. Be sure to book ahead or arrive early, and get ready to indulge in some of the best Mediterranean-inspired dishes on the island.

San Paolo Naufrago Details & Tips
- Location: 11 St. Lucia’s Street, Il-Belt Valletta, Malta
- Opening Hours:
- Monday: 5:00 PM – 11:30 PM
- Tuesday to Saturday: 11:30 AM – 11:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
- Price: โฌ20 – โฌ30 per person
- Tips:
- Dining is on stairs, which creates a unique atmosphere.
- Tables are quite close to each other, so be prepared for a cozy (and sometimes cramped) experience.
- Highly recommend the lasagna โ itโs was my favourite!
- Be sure to book in advance or arrive early, as the restaurant tends to get very busy.
- For a truly memorable experience, visit during the sunset period – the views and ambiance are amazing.

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