Is Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar Malta: Best Pastizzi in Malta
Tucked away just a stone’s throw from the majestic Mdina Gates in Malta lies Is Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar, a local bakery that’s beloved by Maltese residents and lucky travelers who happen to stumble upon it. Whether you’re finishing up a morning of exploring Mdina or just craving a quick, authentic bite, this spot hits the mark. Known for its traditional pastizzi, Serkin offers a slice of Maltese culinary heritage — warm, flaky, affordable, and absolutely delicious.
Experience
At first glance, Serkin might not look like much—but don’t let that fool you. The crowd of locals popping in for a quick bite and the mouthwatering smell of fresh-baked pastries? That’s your sign you’ve just stumbled onto something special.
Inside, you’ll find both indoor and outdoor seating, perfect whether you want to soak up the sun or enjoy some shade. And in a throwback to simpler times, they even have Slush Puppy machines — a nostalgic and much-needed refreshment, especially if you’re visiting during Malta’s hot August days, when temperatures soar above 30°C.
Food
Let’s talk about the star of the show: the pastizzi. These traditional Maltese pastries are flaky on the outside, soft and savoury on the inside, and an absolute must-try. Each pastizzi is generously sized — about as big as your hand — and freshly baked, ensuring a perfect, golden crisp with every bite.
They come in several fillings:
- Irkotta (Cheese) – A creamy, satisfying classic.
- Pizelli (Peas) – Earthy and flavourful, a vegetarian favorite.
- Tigieg (Chicken) – This one stole the show for me. The chicken filling had a satay-like flavour — rich, spiced, and comforting.
Each pastizz is only €0.50, making it an incredibly affordable snack — or meal, depending on how many you indulge in!
They also have qassatat, another type of pastry with a thicker crust and different fillings:
- Irkotta (Cheese) – €1.30
- Pizelli (Peas) – €1.30
- Incova (Anchovies) – €0.60
All pastries are baked fresh daily, and you can truly taste the difference. If you’re into local eats, it doesn’t get more genuine than this.
Price
I can confidently say this was one of the most affordable meals I’ve ever had in Europe. With pastries ranging from €0.50 to €1.30, you can easily fill up for less than €5. It’s an unbeatable value, especially when you consider the quality, authenticity, and portion sizes.
Final Thoughts
Is Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar is the kind of place that stays with you. Not because it’s flashy or fancy, but because it serves real food, made with care, at prices that make you do a double take. It’s a true hidden gem, and whether you’re a foodie or just passing by Rabat, it deserves a spot on your itinerary.
So next time you’re near Mdina, skip the tourist traps and head to Is Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar for a taste of Malta’s heart and soul. Come hungry, leave happy, and maybe grab a slush puppy for the road because sometimes, it’s the little things that make a place unforgettable.
Is Serkin – Crystal Palace Bar Details
- Location: Triq San Pawl, Ir-Rabat, Malta
- Opening Hours: On Google, it indicates that they’re open 24 hours so this makes it convenient whenever you want to visit
- Price: ¢1 – ¢10
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