Bahia

The story

Bahia Restaurant Balzan, Birkirkara – Michelin-Recommended Contemporary Dining in Malta

Bahia: A Story of Place and Progress

On the 3rd of October 2016, Bahia first opened its doors in a restored 200-year-old townhouse in the winding streets of Lija. Over five years, it built a reputation for creative food and warm, professional service. In February 2022, the restaurant moved to a prestigious property in Balzan, a building from the early 1900s that once formed the foundation of Malta’s Corinthia hotel group. This move marked a deliberate step forward, allowing the team to welcome guests in a more comfortable and contemporary space, both indoors and out.

The name Bahia itself is a tribute to a prestigious navel orange, a source of pride for the villages of Lija, Attard, and Balzan. The restaurant honours this heritage with a tree named Chloe, which sits in one of the dining areas. Named after the daughter the founder never had, Chloe is a symbol of the team’s commitment to care and well-being — a reminder that looking after each other yields quality fruit.

Contemporary Cuisine with a Sense of Heritage

The kitchen respects Malta’s culinary heritage while proposing a creative, contemporary cuisine. The team’s approach is built on innovation and a deep respect for high-quality ingredients, with menus that change around three times a year. Guests can choose from an à la carte selection or opt for a tasting menu, including a plant-based option. Accompanying each meal is a carefully curated selection of wines and other beverages, chosen to complement the food.

The restaurant’s dedication to detail and the complete guest experience has not gone unnoticed. Bahia was first listed in the Michelin Guide in 2020 and earned a Michelin star in April 2021. As of February 2025, it continues to be listed on the Michelin Guide, a recognition the team wears with gratitude.

A Collaborative Effort

The experience at Bahia is the result of three key teams working in concert: the kitchen, front of house, and administration. The ability to keep an open mind, listen to one another, and work relentlessly together is what allows the restaurant to deliver high value and a memorable journey for every guest. Whether you are seated in the main dining room, the bar lounge, or the private dining room, the focus remains on the same core principle: giving guests the best possible experience.