Nestled along Triq l-Imsida in the vibrant town of Il-Gżira, Malta, Briju was a beloved Mediterranean restaurant renowned for its artful blend of traditional Maltese flavors and contemporary cuisine. Celebrated for its carefully curated menu, this dining spot charmed locals and travelers alike with dishes that showcased fresh, local ingredients and exquisite culinary craftsmanship.
Guests consistently raved about the exceptional quality of each dish, from the delicate Maltese gnocchi to the expertly prepared lamb and fresh fish selections like raw lampuki. The restaurant’s wine list was thoughtfully chosen to complement each meal perfectly. Not only was the food top-notch, but the staff’s attentive and polite service made every visit memorable — knowledgeable waiters guided diners through the menu with friendliness and warmth.
- Locally sourced ingredients ensuring fresh and authentic flavors.
- Mediterranean-inspired menu with elegant Maltese twists and generous vegetarian options.
- Inviting atmosphere with attentive staff and a cozy environment perfect for dinner or special occasions.
- Thoughtful wine pairing enhancing the dining experience with perfect complements to each dish.
While Briju is no longer open at its Gżira location as of May 2025, its spirit lives on through special events hosted at Maria Rosa — a stunning venue surrounded by nature and expansive outdoor spaces, continuing to bring exceptional culinary experiences to Malta’s food lovers.
- Is Briju still open? As of May 2025, Briju has closed its doors in Gżira. However, they are hosting events at Maria Rosa, a picturesque venue surrounded by nature and expansive outdoor spaces.
- What are the operating hours of Briju? Previously, Briju operated from Monday to Saturday, 7 PM to 10 PM, and was closed on Sundays.
- Does Briju offer vegetarian options? Yes, Briju offers vegetarian-friendly dishes, including the Maltese Gnocchi and various vegetable-based mains.
Briju earned heartfelt praise for its exceptional food quality, warm and attentive service, and an inviting ambiance that made guests feel right at home. The combination of fresh, local ingredients and modern culinary techniques brought Maltese cuisine to new heights. Diners frequently highlighted the staff's friendliness and deep knowledge of the menu, which created an engaging and memorable dining atmosphere.
Nestled in the heart of Gżira, Malta, Briju established itself as a beacon of culinary innovation and tradition. Renowned for blending Maltese and Mediterranean flavors with a contemporary twist, it captured the essence of local gastronomy like few others. Chef Patron Rafel Sammut led the kitchen with passion, emphasizing sustainability and authenticity. Impressively, 90% of the ingredients were sourced from nearby farms, ensuring freshness and supporting local producers.
Briju's devotion to quality and culinary artistry earned it a distinguished spot in the Michelin Guide for Malta. This acknowledgment reflected its dedication to crafting dishes that not only delighted the palate but celebrated Maltese heritage through innovative techniques.
In 2025, Briju made a significant change by closing its iconic location on Triq l-Imsida in Gżira. However, rather than fading away, it reinvented itself by hosting culinary events at Maria Rosa—a vibrant venue surrounded by nature, offering a fresh atmosphere that complements its ethos of quality and local sourcing.
Briju's story is one of passion for Maltese cuisine elevated through creativity and sustainability. Its influence continues to resonate in Malta's dining scene, inspiring chefs and food enthusiasts alike to appreciate the richness of local produce and the art of thoughtful cooking.
- Established identity as a leader in Maltese and Mediterranean culinary excellence.
- Sustainability focus with 90% local sourcing supporting Maltese farms and producers.
- Michelin Guide recognition cementing its status among Malta’s elite dining destinations.
- Evolution moving to event hosting at Maria Rosa to continue sharing its culinary passion in a lively new setting.
Located in the heart of Il-Gżira, Malta, Briju has earned a reputation for its exceptional food quality and an inviting atmosphere that artfully blends casual charm with a sophisticated dining experience. Renowned for using fresh, local ingredients, this restaurant offers a thoughtfully curated menu that creatively fuses traditional Mediterranean flavors with modern culinary innovations, making each dish a delightful journey for food enthusiasts and locals alike.
Briju offers an innovative dining experience where every detail counts—from the attentive and friendly service to their excellent wine selection perfectly paired with the meal. Diners frequently praise the freshness of ingredients and the creativity behind dishes like the local beef, grey meagre fish, and vegetarian options, all served in generous portions. The welcoming staff and the casual yet refined environment make it a preferred spot for both casual dinners and special occasions in Gżira.
- Exceptional food quality: Guests rave about standout dishes such as locally sourced lamb, delicate fish entrées, and inventive vegetarian options.
- Attentive and friendly service: Staff create a warm, knowledgeable atmosphere, offering helpful wine pairings and thoughtful dining recommendations.
- Use of fresh, local ingredients: The emphasis on high-quality Mediterranean produce enhances the authentic, flavorful experience.
- Innovative fusion of flavors: Blending traditional Maltese dishes with modern culinary twists offers a unique taste adventure.
- Inviting and casual atmosphere: The relaxed setting is perfect for both intimate dinners and social gatherings.
While Briju is celebrated for its culinary excellence and vibrant atmosphere, prospective visitors should be aware of a few considerations. Notably, the restaurant has closed its Gżira location, which may affect accessibility for some guests. Additionally, the menu adapts seasonally, which might limit options at certain times of the year. If planning to attend special events at the related venue Maria Rosa, reservations may be necessary to secure a spot.
Overall, Briju offers a memorable Maltese dining experience distinguished by quality, creativity, and warmth, making it a must-visit for food lovers exploring the vibrant culinary scene of Gżira.
